Apache County, Arizona Travel Guide

Discover the wonders of Apache County, Arizona: a land of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and rich Native American culture, perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.

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Apache County

Apache County, located in the northeastern corner of Arizona, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. This county is home to the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the United States, providing visitors with an authentic cultural experience. The landscape is dominated by vast deserts, towering mesas, and stunning canyons, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. One of the key attractions in Apache County is the Petrified Forest National Park. This park is renowned for its colorful petrified wood and ancient fossils, offering visitors a glimpse into the Earth's distant past. The Painted Desert, with its vibrant hues of red, orange, and purple, is another must-see destination within the park. The area is also rich in archaeological sites, with many ancient petroglyphs and pottery shards scattered throughout the region. In addition to its natural wonders, Apache County boasts several historic landmarks. Fort Apache Historic Park provides insight into the county's military history and its role in the Indian Wars. The Hubbell Trading Post, a National Historic Site, offers a fascinating look at the region's trading history and the blending of Native American and Western cultures. For those interested in astronomy, Apache County's dark skies make it an excellent location for stargazing, with several observatories offering public viewing nights. Whether you're interested in hiking, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, Apache County has something for everyone. Its remote and pristine nature allows visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Apache County.

Visit during the spring or fall for the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert climate can be harsh.
Respect the local Navajo culture and traditions; always ask for permission before photographing people or sacred sites.
Check out local guides for the best hiking trails and hidden gems.
Be prepared for limited cell service in many remote areas of the county.

Top City Travel Guides in Apache County

The cities of Apache County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Winslow

Destinations in Apache County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Monument Valley

White Mountains

Petrified Forest National Park

Explore Apache County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Apache County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc.

Explore the fascinating Goldfield Ghost Town, a Wild West treasure in Arizona filled with history, adventure, and unique attractions.

4.5

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Discover the artistic landscapes and rich Native American culture at Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Arizona, a true natural marvel.

4.8

Superstition Mountain - Lost Dutchman Museum

Explore the rich history and folklore of Arizona at the Superstition Mountain - Lost Dutchman Museum, a captivating destination for all travelers.

4.7

Painted Desert Inn

Discover the Painted Desert Inn: A historic museum nestled in the heart of Petrified Forest National Park, showcasing Arizona's geological and cultural wonders.

4.7

Best landmarks in Apache County

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Painted Desert Inn

Discover the rich cultural history and breathtaking landscapes at the Painted Desert Inn, a historical gem in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona.

4.7

Apache Death Cave

Discover Apache Death Cave, a historical landmark in Arizona rich in Native American history and ghost town lore, perfect for adventurous travelers.

4.7

Scorpion Gulch

Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Scorpion Gulch, a captivating landmark in Phoenix's South Mountain Park, perfect for adventurers and history lovers alike.

4.8

Show Low Historical Society

Explore the captivating history of Show Low, Arizona at the Show Low Historical Society, where fascinating exhibits and artifacts await.

4.8

Best restaurants in Apache County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

The House

Experience the vibrant flavors of family-friendly dining at The House in Show Low, where creativity meets comfort in every dish.

4.6

Dirtwater Springs

Experience family-friendly dining at Dirtwater Springs with delicious American cuisine and lively atmosphere in Apache Junction.

4.1

Hitching Post Saloon

Discover authentic pizza and vibrant bar culture at Hitching Post Saloon in Apache Junction – where good food meets great times!

4.2

Hacker's Grill

Discover delicious American breakfast delights at Hacker's Grill in Apache Junction - where comfort food meets friendly service.

4.6

Best bars in Apache County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Tortilla Flat Saloon

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Southwestern cuisine at Tortilla Flat Saloon, a must-visit gem in the heart of Arizona.

4.6

The Handlebar Pub and Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American fare at The Handlebar Pub and Grill in Apache Junction, Arizona.

4.6

Dirtwater Springs

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Dirtwater Springs, a family-friendly bar in Apache Junction, perfect for memorable meals and gatherings.

4.1

Hitching Post Saloon

Experience the charm of the Old West at Hitching Post Saloon, where delicious pizza meets rustic ambiance in Apache Junction, Arizona.

4.2

Best shops in Apache County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc.

Discover the captivating history of Goldfield Ghost Town, Arizona's iconic ghost town with thrilling mine tours and unique shopping experiences.

4.5

Old Town Shops

Discover the unique shopping experiences and delightful dining options at Old Town Shops in Flagstaff, Arizona.

4.5

Chee's Indian Store

Discover the essence of Native American culture at Chee's Indian Store in Houck, Arizona, with authentic goods, art, and delicious snacks.

4.4

Ortega Indian City Arts

Discover the rich heritage of Native American art at Ortega Indian City Arts in Houck, Arizona, where unique treasures await.

4.1

Explore Apache County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Apache County, mapped for you.

Apache County Essentials

Apache County is located in the northeastern part of Arizona. The nearest major airport is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in New Mexico, about 200 miles away. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Apache County, which takes approximately 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Arizona, which is about 250 miles away, and then drive for approximately 4 hours. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended.
Apache County covers a vast area, so having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore. Car rentals are available at major airports. Within the county, roads are generally well-maintained, but some remote areas may require a 4WD vehicle, especially during adverse weather conditions. Public transportation is minimal, with few bus services connecting the larger towns. Taxis and ride-sharing services are limited and mostly available in larger towns like St. Johns and Springerville.
The official currency in Apache County, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or small local businesses. ATMs are available in larger towns, but may be scarce in rural areas.
Apache County is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Certain areas, particularly near the borders of the Navajo Nation, may have higher crime rates, so it is advisable to stay in well-known tourist areas and avoid isolated locations at night. Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Police stations and medical facilities are available in larger towns such as St. Johns and Springerville. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and local emergency services handy.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, considering the weather which can range from hot in summer to cold in winter. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting Native American reservations. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly on Native American lands. Always ask for permission before photographing people or sacred sites. Public Transport: Do plan ahead as public transport is limited. Renting a car is the best option. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Respect personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine, including Navajo tacos and fry bread. Don't be shy to ask locals for recommendations.
To experience Apache County like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share stories about the area's rich history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Petrified Forest National Park and Canyon de Chelly, which offer breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance. For a unique experience, attend a local rodeo or Native American cultural event.

When is the best time to visit Apache County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Apache County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Apache County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloYá'át'ééh
  [yah-tay]
- GoodbyeHágoónee'
  [hah-goh-nee]
- YesAoo'
  [ah-oh]
- NoDoo'
  [doh]
- Please/You're welcomeAhéhee'
  [ah-hay]
- Thank youAhéhee'
  [ah-hay]
- Excuse me/SorryT'áá shoodí
  [tah shoh-dee]
- How are you?Nihíji'í?
  [nee-hee-ji]
- Fine. And you?T'áá shoodí. Nihíji'í?
  [tah shoh-dee. nee-hee-ji]
- Do you speak English?Naa'á'íji' éííníísh?
  [nah-ah-ee-ji eh-ee-nee]
- I don't understandT'áá shoodí hólǫ́
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ íiyisí menu, ahéhee'
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo ee-yee-see meh-noo, ah-hay]
- I don't eat meatT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ dóó' éííhí
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo doh-oh eh-ee-hee]
- Cheers!Yá'át'ééh!
  [yah-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ hólǫ́ t'áá'í, ahéhee'
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo ho-lo tah-ah-ee, ah-hay]
- Help!T'áá shoodí!
  [tah shoh-dee]
- Go away!Hólǫ́ yá'át'ée'!
  [ho-lo yah-ah-tay]
- Call the Police!T'áá hólǫ́ t'áá'í Police!
  [tah ho-lo tah-ah-ee poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!T'áá hólǫ́ t'áá'í doctor!
  [tah ho-lo tah-ah-ee doh-ctor]
- I'm lostT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ ch'íiyisí
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo ch-ee-yee-see]
- I'm illT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ hólǫ́
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo ho-lo]
- I'd like to buy...T'áá shoodí hólǫ́ yá'át'ée'...
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo yah-ah-tay]
- I'm just lookingT'áá shoodí hólǫ́ hólǫ́ t'áá'í
  [tah shoh-dee ho-lo ho-lo tah-ah-ee]
- How much is it?Házhóó' yá'át'ée'?
  [hah-zhoh yah-ah-tay]
- That's too expensiveT'áá'í hólǫ́ dóó' hólǫ́ t'áá'í
  [tah-ah-ee ho-lo doh-oh ho-lo tah-ah-ee]
- Can you lower the price?Doo' éííníísh, t'áá'í hólǫ́?
  [doh ee-ee-nee, tah-ah-ee ho-lo]
- What time is it?Dííjį' naashá?
  [dee-hee nah-shah]
- It's one o'clockT'áá'í naashá
  [tah-ah-ee nah-shah]
- Half past (10)T'áá'í náhást'éé' (10)
  [tah-ah-ee nah-hast-eh (10)]
- MorningYá'át'ééh
  [yah-tay]
- AfternoonDííjį' naashá
  [dee-hee nah-shah]
- EveningT'áá'í naashá
  [tah-ah-ee nah-shah]
- YesterdayT'áá'í k'ad
  [tah-ah-ee kahd]
- TodayT'áá'í hólǫ́
  [tah-ah-ee ho-lo]
- TomorrowT'áá'í yá'át'ée'
  [tah-ah-ee yah-ah-tay]
- 1T'áá'í
  [tah-ah-ee]
- 2Naakid
  [nah-kid]
- 3T'áá'í naakid
  [tah-ah-ee nah-kid]
- 4Doo naakid
  [doh nah-kid]
- 5Naakid naakid
  [nah-kid nah-kid]
- 6Naakid dóó'
  [nah-kid doh]
- 7Naakid náhást'éé'
  [nah-kid nah-hast-eh]
- 8Naakid nitsékees
  [nah-kid nit-seh-kays]
- 9Naakid nitsékees dóó'
  [nah-kid nit-seh-kays doh]
- 10Naakid naakid
  [nah-kid nah-kid]
- Where's a/the...?Dííjį' hólǫ́ ...?
  [dee-hee ho-lo]
- What's the address?Házhóó' hólǫ́ address?
  [hah-zhoh ho-lo address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Doo' éííníísh, nídííh (t'áá'í map)?
  [doh ee-ee-nee, nee-dee (tah-ah-ee map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Dííjį' hólǫ́ t'áá'í (bus)?
  [dee-hee ho-lo tah-ah-ee (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)T'áá'í hólǫ́ ticket (t'áá'í ...)
  [tah-ah-ee ho-lo tick-et (tah-ah-ee ...)]

History of Apache County

Apache County is home to ancient Puebloan settlements, dating back over a thousand years. The most notable of these is the Casa Malpais, located near Springerville. This archaeological site features an ancient pueblo, a Great Kiva, and petroglyphs, offering insight into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who once inhabited the region.
Throughout the 19th century, Apache County was a significant battleground during the Apache Wars. Famed Apache leaders such as Geronimo and Cochise led resistance against U.S. military forces. The Battle of Cibecue Creek in 1881 and the subsequent campaigns left a lasting impact on the region's landscape and history.
Fort Apache was established in 1870 in the White Mountains of Apache County to protect settlers and subdue Apache resistance. Today, the fort is part of the Fort Apache Historic Park, which includes the Kinishba Ruins and a museum dedicated to the history of the Apache people and the fort itself.
A significant portion of Apache County lies within the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States. The Navajo people have a rich cultural heritage and history in the region, with traditions, language, and arts that continue to thrive. The Navajo Nation Museum in Window Rock offers a deep dive into the Navajo history and culture.
In 1864, the U.S. government forcibly relocated thousands of Navajo people from their homeland in Apache County to Bosque Redondo in New Mexico. This event, known as the Long Walk, was a tragic chapter in Navajo history. The Navajo Treaty of 1868 allowed for their return, and the resilience of the Navajo people is commemorated annually.
In 1540, Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado led an expedition through the region in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. While the expedition did not find the mythical treasures, it marked one of the earliest European encounters with the indigenous peoples of what is now Apache County.
St. Johns, the county seat of Apache County, was founded by Mormon settlers in 1873. The town's history is closely tied to the early Mormon pioneers who established communities throughout the region. The St. Johns Arizona Temple is a notable landmark, reflecting the area's cultural and historical significance.
Part of the Petrified Forest National Park extends into Apache County. This unique landscape is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The park also contains significant archaeological sites, including ancient petroglyphs and remnants of prehistoric human habitation.
Apache County is traversed by the historic Route 66, the iconic highway that once stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles. This route played a vital role in the development of the American West and is celebrated for its nostalgic charm and historic landmarks, including sections that pass through the Painted Desert.
The Hubbell Trading Post, established in 1878 in Ganado, is the oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation. It served as a crucial hub for trade and cultural exchange between the Navajo people and settlers. Today, it is a National Historic Site, offering a glimpse into the region's trading history and cultural interactions.