Along the east border of present day Arizona runs the jagged and majestic Chiricahua Mountains, the range that leant its name to a large group of Apache Indians of which the Chokonen band is included by modern anthropologists.  This chain provided rich habitat for Cochise's people and a convenient base from which to raid into Mexico -- an activity that the Indians considered an honorable and necessary way to "make a living".  The Chiricahuas contain spectacular formations carved out by eons of erosion.  These awesome pinnacles, spires, balancing rocks and natural arches are made of volcanic rock called rhyolite.

The Chiricahuas form the eastern border of the Sulphur Springs Valley.  At the northern end of this range is famed Apache Pass -- a place that spelled great tragedy for Cochise and the genesis of one of the bloodiest periods of warfare between the American government and the native population ---- Cochise's War, lasting some 11 years.  See the chapter BROKEN ARROW for more information.
 
 
 

Wild in Cochise's time, even today these sprawling mountains boast an impressive list of wildlife.  It is possible to run across Mountain Lion, Bob Cat, Black Bear, Coyote, White-tailed Deer, Mule Deer, Javelinas and even the exotic Coatimundi, which is at the extreme northern limit of its habitat here.  Add to this list several species of rattlesnake, including the Mohave Rattlesnake and the notoriously dangerous Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.     -  -