One of the best kept secrets in Arizona, this 1.5 mile hike along the historic trail to the ruins, is an unforgettable experience. The fort existed for about 30 years and closed after the surrender of Geronimo in 1886. Geronimo was held prisoner here along with along Chiricahua Apaches until they were banished to Florida, Alabama and Oklahoma.
The trail takes you through Apache Pass and across the Butterfield Stage Route. Ruins of the stage station are visible and from the distance along the Ridge Trail you can see the canyon where the famous Bascom Affair occurred that let to many years of wafare between the military and the Apaches led by Mangus Colorados and Cochise. (Cochise is buried in nearby Cochise Stronghold.)
The ruins are carefully preserved and there's a museum and ranger on site at the ruins.
A great return route is to go behind the park museum building and take the Ridge Trail back. The views are spectacular.