Arizona’s Chiricahua Park Nears 64th National Park Status

Congress has approved legislation redesignating southeastern Arizona’s Chiricahua National Monument as Chiricahua National Park, which would become the nation’s 64th park and Arizona’s fourth if President Donald Trump signs it. The roughly 12,000-acre site is known for its striking volcanic rock spires and has attracted relatively few visitors, though supporters expect national-park status to boost tourism and the regional economy. The bill provides no new funding, raising questions about whether the National Park Service can handle increased visitation amid workforce cuts and maintenance needs. It also protects Apache access to cultural and religious sites and requires consultation with tribes, while allowing temporary closures to safeguard traditional uses.