Where Did They Go Wayside

Where Did They Go Wayside

NPS Photo/ B Smith

Quick Facts

Amenities

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Where Did They Go?

Archeologists may never know why the Salado people moved away from the cliff dwellings. Current theories about the regional population decline in the 1450s include long lasting drought, major floods of the Salt River, civil unrest, and resource competition or depletion.

Modern tribes say their ancestors decided to relocate and join other communities. The stories and traditions of the people who lived here are continued today by modern tribes. Tonto National Monument works with tribal partners to better understand and care for the resources of the Tonto Basin.

What importance will this landscape have for future generations?

(Illustration of American Indian people traveling on hillside to and from cliff dwelling. Illustration by Robert Ciaccio/2018)