Cochise Stronghold Climbing

Cochise Stronghold is a spectacular landscape of rugged canyons and towering granite domes. While there is something for everyone in this vast area, those seeking traditional, multi pitch climbing will have a special appreciation for climbing in the Dragoon Mountains. Still, Cochise offers more sport climbing than its reputation, or any current guide, suggests (though not enough to put it in the category of a sport climbing destination). There is also a great deal of multi-pitch "sport" climbing although virtually all of these climbs require an occasional gear placement or chickenhead tie-off. Many of these routes on the larger domes are not documented in any guide--though increasingly, they are showing up on this site--and therefore care must be taken not to get off route.

Climbing in Cochise Stronghold is a backcountry experience. The remote setting, coupled with the committing nature of many of the climbs here, require preparation beyond that of roadside cragging on Mt Lemmon. The terrain is rugged and maze-like, and it is generally easier to get lost than to get where you are going. Allow plenty of time for approaches and err on the side of caution.

The amount of rock in Cochise Stronghold is large, and some of the rock is of outstanding quality. Many super classic routes, put up by pioneering climbers since the 1970's, ascend the various spires and domes in the area. Many of the quality crack climbs in Southern Arizona are found here, as are some of the longest routes in this part of the state. Some of these historic routes are difficult, committing, and runout. If you can't climb them this way, go climb something else. With regards to new route development, this area is evolving. If you are considering a new line, ask yourself if you are truly contributing something of quality to what is already there. You may be looking at a line that has already been done! Please ask around before you drill!

This area is of great cultural significance to some people. Treat it with due respect. User impact has increased at the Stronghold in recent years, particularly human waste. Please pack everything out!

Cochise is climbable year round. However, only the most heat-tolerant individuals climb there in the summer, and early. Spring and fall are the best times, but winter offers good climbing weather on most days as well, particularly in sunny exposures.

Current closures for raptor nesting (as of 2011) include Rockfellow Group and Cochise (WML) Dome from March 1 - June 30. Official closure details are posted above, and in the Rockfellow and What's My Line areas on this site. Check with the US Forest Service Douglas Ranger District for changes and current closures.