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Peloncillo Mountains (Cochise County) facts for kids

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Peloncillo Mountains
Little Baldy
Skeleton Canyon.JPG
View of the Peloncillos and the entrance of Skeleton Canyon, facing east.
Highest point
Peak Midway Peak (Arizona)
Elevation 5,551 ft (1,692 m)
Dimensions
Length 35 mi (56 km)
Width 10 mi (16 km)
Geography
Peloncillo Mountains (Cochise County) is located in Arizona
Peloncillo Mountains (Cochise County)
Location in Arizona
Country United States
Settlements San Simon, Duncan and Franklin
Range coordinates 32°24′11″N 109°08′42″W / 32.40313°N 109.14506°W / 32.40313; -109.14506

The Peloncillo Mountains of Cochise County are a mountain range in Arizona, in the United States. The name "Peloncillo" comes from Spanish and means "Little Baldy." This mountain range is mostly in northeast Cochise County. Part of it also stretches into Greenlee County and Graham County. The northern part of the Peloncillo Mountains forms the border between these two counties. These mountains are located east of the Willcox Playa and the San Simon Valley. They are part of a special area called the Madrean Sky Islands, which has unique plants and animals.

What are the Peloncillo Mountains?

The Peloncillo Mountains in Cochise County are about 35 mi (56 km) long. The northern part of the range runs from north to south. The Gila River flows along the northern edge of these mountains. To the west, you'll find the Whitlock Valley and the Whitlock Mountains.

Exploring the Mountains

The southern part of the Peloncillo Mountains runs from northwest to southeast. This area includes a special protected place called the Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness. This wilderness area helps protect the natural environment and wildlife.

Midway Peak: The Highest Point

The highest point in the Peloncillo Mountains is Midway Peak. It stands tall at 5,551 ft (1,692 m). Midway Peak is located just west of the northern part of the wilderness area. It is surrounded by the wilderness on its north, northeast, east, and southeast sides.

Other Important Peaks

South of Midway Peak, you can find other important peaks in the Peloncillo Mountains. These include Mount Rayburne, which is 4,680 ft (1,426 m) high. Further south are Winchester Peak at 5,127 ft (1,563 m) and San Simon Peak at 5,325 ft (1,623 m). Other peaks in this southern region are Engine Mountain, Gold Hill, and Roostercomb. Gold Hill is just west of the southern part of the wilderness, with a path through a canyon nearby.

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