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Native American History Adventure Itinerary
3-DAY NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY ITINERARY
Adventure Highlights:
Visit ancient Salado pueblo ruins in Globe.
Admire Apache cultural lands and seasonal wildflowers.
Tour Salado cliff dwellings with stunning lake views.
Learn about Tonto Apache history and traditions.
Explore ancient Hohokam structures near Payson.
Scenic route through ancestral lands and Roosevelt Lake
History:
This itinerary celebrates the rich history and heritage of Gila County, once home to the Salado, Hohokam, and Apache peoples. These early inhabitants thrived in the region, building intricate cliff dwellings like those at Tonto National Monument, leaving behind petroglyphs, and living in harmony with the diverse landscapes. The Apache, whose traditions still flourish today, hold deep connections to landmarks like Peridot Mesa and the surrounding lands. Exploring these sites offers a window into their ingenuity, spirituality, and enduring legacy in shaping the cultural fabric of Gila County.
Visit Our Museums
Along your way, stop and experience history first hand at our many museums.
Adventure Itinerary
Visit these Communities on Your Native American Tour
This itinerary takes you through the charming communities of Gila County, starting in Globe, a historic mining town with rich cultural and Native American heritage. As you journey through the scenic landscapes, you’ll pass through Tonto Basin, a gateway to Roosevelt Lake and ancient cliff dwellings. Explore the rustic beauty of Young, surrounded by wilderness and steeped in frontier history. Conclude in Payson, known as the “Heart of Arizona,” where modern amenities blend with deep connections to the Tonto Apache Tribe and the natural splendor of the Mogollon Rim. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the region’s vibrant history and culture.
THINGS TO DO DURING
YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY ITINERARY
Hiking Trails
Find hiking trails throughout the areas you will visit.
Kids Programs
Looking for things that the kids can do. Try the Junior Ranger Program at TNB.
Find 50 Other Things To Do
Looking for additional things to do along the way. We got you covered!
