 |
 | |
  | |
|
|
|
|
Tonto National Monument
History & Culture
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
| NPS Photo | | Lower Cliff Dwelling view |
 |
The well-preserved Lower and Upper cliff dwellings were occupied during the 13th, 14th, and early 15th centuries. The people farmed in the Salt River Valley and supplemented their diet by hunting and gathering native wildlife and plants. They were fine craftsmen, producing some of the most exquisite polychrome pottery and intricately woven textiles to be found in the Southwest. Many of these objects are on display in the Visitor Center museum.
The monument is located in the Upper Sonoran ecosystem, known primarily for its characteristic saguaro cactus. Other common plants include cholla, prickly pear, yucca, agave, ocotillo, and an amazing variety of colorful wildflowers.
|
|  | | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Did You Know?
John Otto's efforts almost a century ago continue to help visitors experience Colorado National Monument. Of the 40 miles of trails available to hikers in the Monument, many of them were first built by original park custodian John Otto.
more...
|
|
|
|
Last Updated: December 18, 2006 at 15:09 EST |
