Mt. Graham
Nestled high in the Pinaleños Mountains, Mt. Graham towers above the nearby town of Safford. At more than 10,000 feet above sea level–the highest peak in southern Arizona–birding Mt. Graham is an excellent escape when temps start climbing on the desert floor below. This Sky Island peak is home to several good places to bird, camp, hike, and enjoy other outdoor pursuits. Some highlights on Mt. Graham include Marijilda Creek and the Noon Creek Picnic Area. Arcadia Campground (6,700 feet) and Shannon Campground (9,000 feet) are excellent places to base your birding adventures. Some avian highlights include northern goshawk, Mexican spotted owl, varied bunting, and common black hawk. Keep your eye out for the Mt. Graham red squirrel, an endemic mammal only found on this mountain.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Graham
Directions: From Safford, Arizona, head south on US 191 for about 7.5 miles then head south on AZ 366 (aka Swift Trail) takes you up the mountain.
Latitude: 32.688697
Longitude: -109.870267
Operational Hours: Seasonal closings, check with site manager
Admission or Fees: Day use is free; several different campground have varying fees; check with the site's website for more info
Best time to visit: Summer
Habitats: Mixed Conifer-Aspen Forest, Pine-oak Forest, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Many of the forest roads on Mt. Graham are closed November 15 through April 15.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Acorn Woodpecker, Bridled Titmouse, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Common Black Hawk, Northern Goshawk, Painted Redstart, Red Crossbill, Red-faced Warbler, Zone-tailed Hawk
Contact Information
Coronado National Forest - Safford Ranger District
711 14th Avenue, Suite D
Safford, Arizona 85546
Phone: 928-428-4150
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=25526
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L297478
Additional Resources:
US Forest Service - Safford Ranger District
Graham County
