15 Chiricahua Cochise Stronghold

Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity… Psalm 133:1(NKJV)

Arizona has a diversity of mountain bike trails, most of which are found in the southwestern Sonoran desert.  Cochise Stronghold is a favorite for mountain bikers and rock climbers alike. There is a history behind the Cochise Stronghold trail. It is said the great war chief, Cochise, hid in those mountains in 1876.  He and a small band of Chiricahua—a group of Apache Native Americans–used the same trail.

Today you can ride a 4.5 mile out-and-back trek that begins with steep, dry switchbacks on the west side of the slope—all part of the Basin and Range provinces of the southwest. Don’t be misled by the low mileage of this trail–it lives up to its name. 

Cochise Stronghold rides were usually reserved for Memorial Day by the bike club members I rode with; this particular year there were only 4 riders joining in. The trail began with a mesquite forest leading onto a steep, dusty, gravel covered single track. Once we reached the crest, went through a cattle-guard gate, we took refuge from the blaring heat of the sun, in the shade of a big mesquite tree. That lasted about 10 minutes until it was time for the downhill!

When we finally reached the campsite (the turnaround point), we were ready to cool off at the water pump, fuel up with GU’s and power bars. It was concerning when the first rider primed the pump and no water came gushing out. After several tries we realized it was dry, and we were dismayed! We sat on the rock wall that surrounds part of the camp, and to our surprise and delight, one of the riders had made southwestern “wraps,” to share with us!   For a short while, our worries about the dry water pump dissolved into sweet fellowship and a momentary break from what we knew was to come.  Cochise Stronghold, though only a short 4.5 miles, is one of the toughest rides around.  Arizona’s merciless afternoon heat would soon be scorching our backs, and pressing us forward to the trailhead.  We savored our time in the shade, and were thankful for lunch, courtesy of “Moody.”

Lord help me to remember how significant the people in my life truly are, and not to forget the many times I’ve been helped by others. Work through me as I endeavor to keep unity and peace in my world.

Challenge 15: Reach out to someone in need today.  Whether it be a family member, co-worker, club-buddy, or a new rider on the trail, do the simple act that makes someone else’s life better.

If you’ve ever ridden the Cochise Stronghold trail—please leave a comment and share you experience. Thank you.