Apache County, Arizona
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Apache County is located in the northeastern corner of the U.S. state of Arizona. It is the sixth-largest county by land area in the United States, covering 21,203 square miles. The county is known for its rich Native American history, beautiful landscapes, and diverse communities. With a population of around 71,000, the county offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
Apache County was created in February 1879 from the eastern portion of Yavapai County. The county was named after the Apache tribe, which was one of the primary Native American groups living in the area at the time. The region has a long history of Native American settlement, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years.
The arrival of European settlers in the 1800s brought significant changes to the area, with the establishment of trading posts, forts, and settlements. Conflicts between settlers and the Apache tribe were common, leading to the eventual forced relocation of the Apache people to reservations.
Today, the county is home to the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, the largest reservation in Arizona, and the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States. Both reservations contribute significantly to the cultural heritage and local economy of the county.
Apache County is approximately 230 miles northeast of Phoenix, Arizona. The quickest route is to take the Interstate 17 northbound from Phoenix, then switch to the Interstate 40 eastbound until reaching Apache County. The journey typically takes around 4 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.
The economy of Apache County is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, tourism, and government services. The county’s agricultural sector is primarily focused on livestock, with cattle and sheep ranching being significant contributors to the local economy.
Tourism plays an important role in the county, as visitors are attracted to the area’s natural beauty, Native American cultural sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The Petrified Forest National Park, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, and the White Mountains are among the top attractions in the region.
Government services, particularly those associated with the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and the Navajo Nation, are also major employers in Apache County. Additionally, education and healthcare sectors provide job opportunities for residents.
Apache County is served by several public school districts, including the Chinle Unified School District, Ganado Unified School District, Window Rock Unified School District, and St. Johns Unified School District. These districts provide education from pre-kindergarten through high school.
Higher education opportunities in Apache County are limited, but residents have access to nearby institutions outside the county, such as Northland Pioneer College, which has campuses in neighboring Navajo County.
Healthcare services in Apache County are primarily provided by the Indian Health Service (IHS), a federal agency responsible for providing healthcare to American Indians and Alaska Natives. The IHS operates several healthcare facilities in the county, including the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility, Fort Defiance Indian Hospital, and Whiteriver Indian Hospital.
In addition to IHS facilities, there are also a few private healthcare providers in the county, offering primary care and specialty services.
Real estate in Apache County is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Arizona. The county offers a mix of single-family homes, manufactured homes, and vacant land for sale. The median home value in the county is significantly lower than the state average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a rural lifestyle with lower housing costs.
Things to Do
There are plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities in Apache County, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The county’s beautiful landscapes, such as the Petrified Forest National Park and the White Mountains, offer stunning vistas and a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural attractions in the county include the Fort Apache Historic Park, which showcases the history of the Apache tribe and the military fort that once occupied the site, and the Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, the oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation.
Attractions and Points of Interest
1. Petrified Forest National Park: A unique park featuring one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The park also offers hiking trails, a visitor center, and stunning views of the Painted Desert.
2. Canyon de Chelly National Monument: A beautiful canyon system with significant archaeological and cultural sites, including ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. The canyon is also home to the dramatic Spider Rock formation.
3. Fort Apache Historic Park: A preserved military fort and cultural site that showcases the history of the Apache tribe and their interactions with European settlers. The park includes a museum, historic buildings, and a walking tour.
4. Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site: The oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation, this site offers a glimpse into the history of trade and commerce between NativeAmericans and settlers. The trading post features a museum, a working rug weaving studio, and a gift shop selling Native American arts and crafts.
5. White Mountains: A stunning mountain range offering a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Popular spots in the White Mountains include the Mount Baldy Wilderness, Sunrise Park Resort, and the White Mountain Apache Tribe Wildlife Recreation Area.
6. Lyman Lake State Park: A scenic park surrounding Lyman Lake, offering camping, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The park also features petroglyphs and a visitor center.
7. Window Rock: The administrative capital of the Navajo Nation, Window Rock is home to several significant cultural sites, including the Navajo Nation Museum and the Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park.
Places to Stay
Accommodation options in Apache County are limited but include several motels, lodges, and bed-and-breakfast establishments. Visitors can also find camping and RV sites at the area’s state parks and national forests.
Government Structure
Apache County is governed by a three-member Board of Supervisors, who are elected to staggered four-year terms. The county is also served by several elected officials, including the Sheriff, County Attorney, and Treasurer. Additionally, the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and the Navajo Nation have their own tribal governments, which work in partnership with the county government on various initiatives.
Clubs and Organizations
Apache County has a range of clubs and organizations that cater to different interests and needs. Some examples include:
– The White Mountain Apache Tribe Wildlife & Outdoor Recreation Program: An organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural resources and wildlife within the White Mountain Apache Tribe’s reservation.
– The Apache County Historical Society: A group dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the county through research, education, and outreach.
– The Apache County Master Gardeners: A group of trained volunteers who provide gardening education and support to local residents.
Golf Courses
There are a few golf courses in Apache County, including the Whiteriver Golf Course on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and the Concho Valley Country Club. These courses offer a mix of challenging and scenic holes, set against the beautiful backdrop of the county’s landscapes.
Hiking
Apache County offers numerous hiking opportunities, with trails catering to various skill levels and interests. Popular hiking destinations include:
– Petrified Forest National Park: Featuring several trails that showcase the park’s unique petrified wood formations and Painted Desert vistas.
– Canyon de Chelly National Monument: Offering both self-guided and guided hikes that explore the canyon’s archaeological and cultural sites.
– White Mountains: Boasting a vast network of trails, ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking adventures.
Quality of Life
Residents of Apache County enjoy a peaceful, rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The cost of living is generally lower than the state average, with affordable housing options available. The county’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational opportunities provide a high quality of life for those who appreciate a slower pace and a close connection to nature.
Transportation
Public transportation options in Apache County are limited, and most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The county is served by several major highways, including U.S. Routes 60, 180, and 191, as well as Interstate 40.
The nearest commercial airports are located in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, both of which are several hours away by car.
Shopping
Shopping opportunities in Apache County are primarily focused around small, locally-owned businesses and trading posts. Larger retail centers can be found in nearby cities, such as Flagstaff and Gallup, New Mexico.
Art and Culture
Apache County is rich in Native American art and culture, with several museums, cultural centers, and historic sites showcasing the region’s history and artistic traditions. The county is also home to numerous talented Native American artists and craftspeople, whose work can be found at local galleries, trading posts, and events.
Climate
The climate in Apache County is varied, with high desert and mountainous areas experiencing different weather patterns. Overall, the county experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Snowfall is common in the higher elevations of the White Mountains, while the lower elevations receive minimal precipitation.
Community Involvement
Residents of Apache County are actively involved in their communities, participating in local clubs and organizations, volunteering, and attending community events. The county also hosts several annual festivals and events that bring residents together to celebrate their shared heritage and traditions.
Sports and Recreation
Outdoor sports and recreational activities are popular in Apache County, with abundant opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The county’s golf courses, state parks, and national monuments also provide additional recreational options.
Dining and Nightlife
Dining options in Apache County are limited but include a mix of local restaurants, cafes, and fast-food establishments. Nightlife in the county is low-key, with a few local bars and tavern
