The Hualapai Indian Land stretches 108 miles along the Colorado River and includes the western end of the Grand Canyon. The Indian Land is in Coconino and Mohave Counties. It shares its northern and eastern boundaries with the Grand Canyon National Park and also adjoins the Hualapai Indian Lands on the east. The elevation ranges from 1,200 feet to 7,400 feet. Currently, the tribe has 1,400 members.
The name Hualapai comes from the word “hwal’bay, which means “people of the tall pines. The Hualapai originally came from the Yuma Indians in Western Arizona, but they eventually moved to this region.
When settlers started to encroach on the Hualapai, battles erupted. After losing the war, the Indians were placed in a camp near the town of Parker. Many Hualapai perished at the camp, however, some did manage to escape.
They made their way back to their homeland and later the land was set aside for the tribe to live. The Hualapai Indian Lands covers almost 1 million acres and was created by Executive Order in January 1883.
Today, Peach Springs is the Tribal Capital. The town owes its name to the peach trees growing at the springs nearby. The Hualapai Indian Land is working hard make a positive future. There has been economic, social and government progress in recent years. This is evident with the building of new homes, an improved water and sewer system, paved and curbed streets and a mission to be an anti-drug and alcohol community.
The western section of the Indian Lands remains closed to the public. This area is viewed as sacred to the Hualapai tribe.
Attractions:
The Hualapai Indian Lands offers the only access by car into the Grand Canyon. By driving to Peach Springs and following Diamond Creek Road, you will arrive at the gorge where Diamond Creek and the Colorado River meet. The Hualapai Tribal River Runners is the only Indian owned and operated the river-rafting company on the Colorado River. The company offers one and two day Indian guided tours.
Hualapai Arts and Crafts Center has a variety of traditional and modern arts available for purchase. The center is located in Peach Springs.
Hualapai Indian Days May
