History and Culture of the Region

Springerville, Eagar, and the surrounding communities of the White Mountains are rich with the culture of the southwest. From the earliest days of recorded history, when native Americans first inhabited the fertile lands, to the days of the pioneer west, and even on to the days of the "Mother Road"--Route 66--you'll find the rich history come alive in the museums, archeological sites, and restorations here in Arizona's White Mountains.

Casa Malpais Ruins

Overlooking the Town of Springerville, the 17-acre ruins were occupied in the 13th century, and have been carefully preserved. Unusual features such as the Great Kiva,  stairways, astronomically aligned shrines, and petroglyphs provide visitors with a distinct view into the regions ancient past.

Considered as one of the finest archeological parks in the southwest, a museum and gift shop displaying artifacts from the time period welcomes visitors in Springerville.

Guided tours are also available Tuesday through Saturday, and start at the Casa Malpais Visitor Center and Museum at 418 E. Main Street, on U.S. 60 in Springerville. The Museum and Visitor Center are open from Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Trail of Many Tracks

A strong sense of appreciation and preservation for historical ancestry is evident in this area of the White Mountains. The "Trail of Many Tracks" is an historical driving tour that highlights the prehistorical and historical aspects of the Little Colorado River Plateau and White Mountains of east-central Arizona, in an effort to promote heritage-based tourism.

Coronado Trail Scenic Byway

The trail is an exciting 120-mile journey surrounded by the beauty and grandeur of Arizona. The drive begins in Springerville, and ends in Morenci to the south. The trail takes you along the edge of the 2-million acre Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, home to one of the largest stands of Ponderosa Pines in the world. Stop by the Visitor's Center or any Forest Service Office for driving directions.

Rattlesnake Point Ruin and Petroglyph Trail

Located just minutes north of Springerville and Eagar, Lyman Lake State Park is a 1,180-acre park that encompasses the shoreline of this man-made reservoir. Rattlesnake Point Pueblo was a medium-sized village that was home to about 15 families between AD 1325 and 1390. It was one story tall and had between 80 and 90 rooms. The pueblo was built and occupied by the ancestors of the Hopi, and perhaps other, Pueblo Indian groups. When occupied, the architecture would have resembled that of historic pueblo villages. The pueblo sat on a long ridge overlooking the Little Colorado River. The fertile floodplain along the river was almost certainly farmed by the people living at Rattlesnake Point. Complete trail guide offered in visitor center. Rooms from this 14th century ruin can be viewed from a short trail. Tours are available through the Ranger Station on a seasonal basis.

Little House Museum

Just 10 miles southwest of Eagar off of State Route 260, the Little House Museum located on Southfork Ranch contains an authentic collection of western and pioneer artifacts. Used as a corporate retreat, many of the buildings have been restored to their original pioneer condition, and house antiques and photographs that help bring alive the ranching and pioneer history of this part of Arizona. Guided tours are available in the summer months, and winter visits are available by appointment only. For further information, contact the Little House Museum at 928-333-2286.

"Pistols, Plows and Petticoats" Historic Driving Tour

This self-guided tour offers a sense of pioneer spirit and wild west excitement as visitors learn of the communities historic roots. Guidebooks including a map can be purchased at the Casa Malpais Visitor's center.

Meteor Crater

50,000 years ago, with an explosive force greater than 20 million tons of TNT, a meteorite estimated to be about 150 feet across, slammed into the earth just a half-day's drive from Southern Apache County. Accessible via Interstate 40 (northwest of Springerville/Eagar, about half distance to Flagstaff), the crater is 550 feet deep, 2.4 miles in circumference, and is open to the public. The Museum of Astrogeology, interpretive displays, guided rim trail hike, gift shop, and snack bar are found in the Visitor's Center.

Petrified Forest

An hour and a half drive north of Springerville, along U.S. 180 past the community of St. Johns is the internationally famous Petrified Forest National Park, the largest park where visitors can walk among giant fallen petrified wood. The Painted Desert, adjacent to the Petrified Forest, comes alive with a brilliant palette of desert colors for a sunrise or sunset that you won't want to miss!

Snowflake Historic Homes

During the summer months, newly restored Pioneer homes in nearby Snowflake, an hour's drive northeast of Springerville and Eagar, are open for public tours. Many of the homes have been restored to their original condition, and are complete with artifacts and period furniture depicting the lifestyle of the original Mormon settlers.

Historic Route 66

Continuing north of Snowflake, in the communities of Winslow and Holbrook, you'll find artifacts, antique shops, and portions of Historic Route 66. Arizona has the longest continuous stretch of Route 66 in the country, and people flock from points all around the globe to recapture the legend and mystique of this famous highway, where you can "get your kicks on Route 66." The City of Holbrook has preserved an original section of Route 66-complete with a variety of retro motels, trading posts, cafes, an old jail, and petrified wood shops.