Aqua Fria National Monument, Arizona

The world- renowned Aqua Fria National Monument, Arizona, welcomes countless visitors each year, all hoping to catch a glimpse of this towering beauty and the surrounding mesa. It has many things to see and do, one of which is a trip or tour to the area's ancient settlement, now just mere ruins.

The Aqua Fria National Monument is fairly new, and is located not far from Phoenix, Arizona. Its huge peak attracts many people every year, as well as its prehistoric ruins of an ancient native settlement. It covers over seventy-one thousand acres of mesas, grasslands, canyons and riverbeds. In fact, it is a site that has drawn a great deal of international attention.

Guests are welcomed with open arms to absorb the wildlife, archaeological wonders and breathtaking scenery. In fact, it is not uncommon to see deer, antelope, mountain lions, reptiles, bears or elk. However, the biggest draw is the ruins, once home to local Apache tribes. It is possible to wander amongst the adobe homes and walk the narrow streets.

The monument is especially important to the native people, who deem it vital to their rich culture. In fact, recent archaeological digs have revealed further evidence of civilized human habitation, including settlement evidence dating back over a hundred years. For the careful hiker, the area abounds with former sheep enclosures, disused mines and military encampments. It is truly a place where history and time have melded into one.

The park is open all year round, and certain rules and regulations are in force. Everyone is expecting to treat all archaeological sites, wildlife and the landscape with the utmost respect.