Tonto Upper Cliff Dwelling, Maricopa County Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient cliff dwellings of the Salado people at Tonto National Monument, a unique historical and cultural experience in Arizona's Tonto Basin.

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Tonto Upper Cliff Dwelling

Perched high in a natural alcove overlooking the Tonto Basin, the Upper Cliff Dwelling at Tonto National Monument offers a remarkable glimpse into the lives of the Salado people who inhabited this region between the 13th and 15th centuries. This well-preserved, 40-room dwelling showcases the unique architectural style and cultural adaptations of this ancient civilization.

A brief summary to Tonto Upper Cliff Dwelling

Roosevelt, Arizona, 85545, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tonto Upper Cliff Dwelling.

Reservations are required for the Upper Cliff Dwelling tour and should be made well in advance, especially for visits during peak season.
Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes, as the hike to the Upper Cliff Dwelling is moderately strenuous.
The Tonto National Monument accepts only electronic card payments for entrance fees.

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Getting There

Driving

Tonto National Monument is located near Roosevelt, AZ. From Phoenix, take State Highway 87 north towards Payson, then turn right onto Highway 188 southeast. The monument will be on the right. Alternatively, take State Highway 60 east towards Globe, then turn left onto Highway 188 northwest. Check local road conditions before traveling, especially during winter or rainy seasons. Parking is available near the visitor center. Entrance fee is $10 per person (16 and older).

Discover more about Tonto Upper Cliff Dwelling

Nestled within Tonto National Monument, the Upper Cliff Dwelling stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Salado people. Constructed between 1300 and 1450 CE, this remarkable cliff dwelling comprises approximately 40 rooms built into a natural cave high above the Tonto Basin. The dwelling offers insight into the lives of the Salado people, who blended ideas from neighboring Native American cultures to create a unique and vibrant society.Protected within the cave, the Upper Cliff Dwelling provided shelter from the elements, with the cave remaining dry even in harsh weather, offering morning sun in winter and cooling shade in summer. The dwelling's construction features partially intact roofs, stone and slab door lintels, and even second-story rooms, showcasing the architectural skills of its builders. A large open work area and a cistern capable of holding approximately 100 gallons of water further highlight the community's ability to thrive in this environment.Today, the Upper Cliff Dwelling is accessible only by guided tour, offered from November through April. These tours provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the dwelling, learn about the Salado culture, and appreciate the stunning views of the Tonto Basin and Theodore Roosevelt Lake. The monument itself is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.