Location & Access:
Located in Coolidge, Arizona, approximately 50 miles southeast of Phoenix, the monument is accessible via U.S. Highway 87. The site is open year-round, with a visitor center providing educational exhibits and restrooms.
Natural Features:
The monument encompasses desert grasslands and ancient irrigation canals. The iconic "Great House" stands prominently amidst the surrounding landscape, showcasing the Hohokam's architectural ingenuity.
Wildlife & Plants:
The area supports desert-adapted flora such as saguaro cacti, mesquite, and palo verde trees. Wildlife includes desert cottontail rabbits, ground squirrels, and various bird species.
Cultural & Historical Significance:
The "Great House" is believed to have been a communal center for the Hohokam people, serving as a gathering place and possibly a waypoint in an extensive system of canals and trading networks.
Recreation & Visitor Information:
Visitors can explore the ruins via accessible pathways, with interpretive signage providing historical context. The visitor center offers guided tours and educational programs.
Conservation & Management:
Managed by the National Park Service, the monument focuses on preserving the archaeological site and educating the public about the Hohokam culture and desert agriculture.
Location: Pinal County, Arizona, USA
Nearest City: Coolidge, AZ
Size: ~180 acres
Established: August 3, 1918
Managed by: U.S. National Park Service
Visitation: ~60,000 visitors annually