Located in Cananea, it has been declared a protected natural area. It is part of an important biological corridor of 65 mountain formations in the border area of Sonora, Arizona, and New Mexico known as the "Archipelago of Sky Islands." La Mariquita, along with La Elenita, Los Ajos, and other neighboring mountains that are part of the "Archipelago," are important water-receiving sources at the birth of the hydrological basins of the Sonora, San Pedro, and Magdalena rivers. 

In the spring-summer season, "La Mariquita" truly lives up to its name as thousands of these little insects known as "Ladybugs" can be seen mainly on the pine trees, causing admiration with their beauty. Ladybugs disappear in winter, leaving behind their larvae until the next summer.

The Sierra also houses the Guillermo Haro Observatory.