Nestled in a cave overlooking Tonto Basin is the 40-room Upper Cliff Dwelling. Many theories have been presented as to why people began building here. Protection from the elements is certainly a possibility. The cave is dry even during the worst weather, and receives the full benefit of the morning sun in winter and cooling shade in summer. Other theories are that the people were afraid of their neighbors, or perhaps they were glad to get away from crowded conditions on the valley floor. To view a floorplan of the Upper Cliff Dwelling, click on the link.

Construction of the Upper and Lower Cliff Dwellings began about AD 1300 and continued until the basin was abandoned between AD 1400 - 1450. The size of the cave (70' wide x 80' high x 60' deep) allowed for a large work area that contains a cistern, capable of holding approximately 100 gallons of water.

Small doorways helped retain heat; many were sealed when rooms were no longer being used. Some doorways are shaped like a "T" or half-"T", which may have reduced drafts. Perhaps they were meant to hold jars or help someone balance while entering the room. It is still possible to see fingerprints of the ancient people who built these remarkable structures.

One of the last rooms completed in the Upper Cliff Dwelling has reeds in the ceiling instead of the saguaro ribs and other materials used in older construction. Was this an attempt to try something new, or is it evidence of over-utilization of resources? It is important to preserve these remainders of the past, even though we may never know the full story of the people who called this place home.