Ranger Programs Offered in January at Tonto National Monument

In cooperation with Tonto National Forest, Tonto National Monument will present a special interpretive program at Schoolhouse Point Platform Mound on Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Archeological work in the mid-1990s examined several sites in Tonto Basin and identified what are now called platform mounds. Park Ranger Eddie Colyott will explore the architecture and development of the Schoolhouse Point Platform Mound, which is one of the better understood and best preserved of the platform mounds. If you are an experienced hiker, join Park Ranger Jan Harper on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 5:15 p.m. for the three mile round-trip hike to the Upper Cliff Dwelling under the full moon at Tonto National Monument. This backcountry hike is strenuous and culminates with a steep climb to the cliff dwelling. Reservations are necessary to sign up for this full moon tour. Participants are reminded to wear sturdy footwear and bring water and a flashlight. Meet Ranger Harper in the visitor center parking lot. In cooperation with the City of Globes Parks and Recreation Department, Park Ranger Jan Harper of Tonto National Monument will offer a special tour of the Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park on Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Ranger Harper will explore the settlement pattern and development of this multi-storied, multi-roomed pueblo. You can also walk through reconstructed rooms and climb a recreated ladder. Ranger Harper will meet participants at the Besh-Ba-Gowah Visitor Center. A $2.00 per person admission fee is charged to visit the archeological park. To make a reservation, or for additional information about Tonto National Monument, please call 928-467-2241. Tonto National Monument is located four miles east of Roosevelt Dam on State Highway 188.