Guide | ♦ | 35 Triplogs | 2 Topics |
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1934 inspiration by Randal_Schulhauser ![]() A recent read of Emil W. Haury's 1934 archeological paper entitled "Canyon Creek Ruins and Cliff Dwellings of the Sierra Ancha" has spurred me to visit even more cliff dwellings. I'll describe a recent hike to one of the lesser-known cliff dwellings near the Cherry Creek region of the Sierra Anchas. Starting from the ![]() ![]() At mile ![]() ![]() ![]() On this mid-May day there are still a variety of blooms along the route including purple flowering desert verbena and yellow flowering prickly pear cacti. As you look to the east, you can see Coon Creek valley. As you look to the north you will see how the canyon will begin to box up forming cliffs on both sides. This is where the cliff dwellings are located. FR1076 will follow the contour along the west side of Coon Creek valley towards a mountain pass. Follow the FR1076 trail though the mountain pass. At mile ![]() ![]() At Coon Creek, boulder hop downstream looking for an overhang in the cliffs on the west side (your right hand side as you head downstream). You can catch glimpses of the ruins through the thick brush. At mile ![]() ![]() Some notes about the ruins based on miscellaneous readings. Some archaeologist reports refer to this ruin as Hematite House due to the iron-oxide mineral deposits called hematite. As you look at the cliffs surrounding the ruin you will notice the red hematite along with the yellow hematite deposits. The Coon Creek cliff dwellings were constructed by the Salado whereas Cherry Creek cliff dwellings were constructed by the Anchans (a culture often associated with the Mogollon). I could not find any exact dates for the construction and subsequent abandonment of the Coon Creek cliff dwellings. In general, these ruins are thought to be 700 years old. If you are looking for a remote cliff dwelling hike that doesn't require the same effort as a Devil's Chasm or Pueblo Canyon, or the potential vertigo, this hike is for you. Enjoy! Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. |