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San Carlos
Apache Tribe
Welcome to the
San Carlos Apache Tribe
The San Carlos Apache Tribal Lands, located in southeastern Arizona, encompass a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Spanning approximately 1.8 million acres, these lands are home to the San Carlos Apache Tribe, whose deep connection to the region is reflected in their traditions, stories, and way of life. The landscape is diverse, featuring rugged mountains, arid deserts, and lush riparian areas that support a variety of wildlife and plant species. The tribal lands are not only a sanctuary for the Apache people but also a living testament to their resilience and enduring spirit. Here, ancient customs blend with contemporary life, creating a vibrant community that honors its past while embracing the future.
Nne/Nde
San Carlos Apache
Some say ‘Apache’ is the most famous name of any Native American people in the Grand Canyon State. ‘N’dee’ is their name for themselves – meaning ‘the People’.
Encompassing 1.8 million acres, the San Carlos Apache Reservation spans Gila, Graham, and Pinal Counties – a landscape visitors find begins with panoramic views across saguaro-studded low desert, proceeding up through chaparral and high desert prairie – into thick forests of pine and fir trees above 6,000 feet.
Formerly nomadic, today’s San Carlos Apaches continue their most ancient and sacred traditions – but have also found success with a telecommunications enterprise expanding off ‘the Rez’ to serve neighboring communities’ high-tech needs.
Known for its lakes, more than one-third is forest or woodland – drawing hunters, anglers,campers and hikers. Carefully managed logging continues in upper elevation ponderosa pine forests, a renewable source of income. Forestry here is carefully balanced with wildlife management to assure future generations of Apache hunters and visiting sportsman will find trophy elk, mule and Coues deer; Merriam’s turkey, javelina, black bear and mountain lion – and all three species of quail: Gambel’s, Scaled & Mearn’s.
Who else visits this famous land of the Apache? Overnight guests relax at Apache Gold Casino Resort’s hotel for gaming, cuisine – and golf at the adjacent Apache Stronghold links. The new Apache Sky casino opened just south of Winkelman on Hwy 177. Western history buffs visit the Cultural Center to read Apaches’ own view of their history, culture and art. And buyers of gems know Peridot Mesa is one of few places on Earth where August’s birthstone is mined, the green semi-precious stone is a magnesium-rich variety of olivine.
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