The state of Arizona could be considered on giant archaeological site. Here are a few ancient Puebloan sites to visit.
Tonto National Monument at Roosevelt Lake
This site consists of two cliff dwellings built by the Salado people situated high above Roosevelt Lake. They are well preserved, and a moderate hike leads up close to one dwelling. Visitors can take this hike themselves. Follow State Route 88 from Globe to the Monument.
Kinishba Ruins west of Ft. Apache
The Kinishba ruins consist of 600 rooms built by the Mogollon and Anasazi peoples approximately 800 years ago. The ruins can be accessed by a dirt road near the Canyon Day store. The Ft. Apache Museum provides maps for a $5 entrance fee which includes a tour of the Fort.
The Kinishba site is quiet and not well traveled, since the dirt road is not well-maintained. The site is full of pottery sherds, which should be left where they are.
The Ft. Apache Museum is located south of Whiteriver, AZ off highway 73 on Rt. 46. The Kinishba ruins are located 4 miles west of the Rt. 46 turn off on highway 73.
Casa Malpais and Raven Site Ruin near Springerville
Casa Malpais, built by the Mogollon peoples, sits atop a volcanic rim at 7,000 feet. Tours begin at the visitor center and museum located on Main Street in Springerville. The Raven Site Ruin is located 12 miles north of Springerville and will need to be contacted for access.
Montezuma Castle near Camp Verde
Montezuma Castle was so named because it was mistakenly believed to built by the Aztecs. This cliff dwelling was actually built by the Sinagua and is an impressive 5 stories tall. Several of the modern day Hopi clans claim to be descendants of the people who built Montezuma Castle. Take Highway 17 to exit 289 near Camp Verde.
Homolovi Ruins near Winslow
Homolovi means little hills in hopi and consists of several buildings and pit houses alongside the Little Colorado River, as well as a 1200 room pueblo. Homolovi sits near 5,000 feet and the rolling terrain makes for an easy hike. Take Interstate 40 to exit 257N toward 2nd Mesa.
Walnut Canyon National Monument east of Flagstaff
The Island Trail at Walnut Canyon is a 1 mile, strenuous hike through 25 cliff dwelling rooms built by the Sinagua people. The trail leads right through many of the rooms and affords a close up look at the ruins. As well, many more ruins can be viewed across the canyon. Follow Interstate 40 to exit 204 east of Flagstaff. Walnut Canyon is 3 miles from the turnoff.
Cassandra Truax - Cassandra might be considered a jack of all trades. Starting out with a BA in Spanish with a minor in Environmental Studies, she decided ...
