Skeleton Cave, Cave formation in Maricopa County, Arizona, United States
The natural rock shelter extends 40 feet deep and spans 118 feet wide, positioned 1,200 feet above the Salt River Canyon.
In December 1872, over seventy Yavapai people lost their lives during a military confrontation with the 5th Cavalry in this cave.
The cave holds profound meaning for Native American communities as a memorial site connected to the Yavapai War period.
Located near Horse Mesa Dam, the cave requires a demanding hike through steep terrain to reach its entrance at the base of a 170-foot cliff.
The skeletal remains discovered in the cave during its rediscovery in 1908 were later transferred to Fort McDowell in 1933.
Location: Maricopa County
GPS coordinates: 33.58139,-111.36861
Latest update: May 11, 2025 10:47
Canyon Lake
7.6 km
Lost Dutchman State Park
17.2 km
Four Peaks
12.1 km
Saguaro Lake
14.6 km
Weaver's Needle
16.5 km
Mount McDowell
30.5 km
Sears-Kay Ruin
30.3 km
Buckhorn Baths Motel
36 km
Stewart Mountain Dam
15.6 km
Mormon Flat Dam
7.5 km
Roosevelt Lake Bridge
22.2 km
Peralta Canyon
22.4 km
Buckhorn Hot Mineral Wells
35.9 km
Gold Canyon Golf Resort
24.5 km
Fountain Hills Observatory
35 km
Las Sendas Golf Club
30 km
Desert Sands Golf Course
35.9 km
Tonto National Monument Visitor Center
24.7 km
Verde River Golf and Social Club
35.9 km
Sunland Springs Golf
31.4 km
Desert Canyon Golf Course
32 km
Falcon Field Airport
36 km
Goldfield Ghost Town
17.7 km
Shepherd Aquatic Complex
34.9 km
Apache Trail
24.4 km
Boulder Creek Bridge
7.4 km
Mormon Flat Bridge
8.4 km
Queen Creek Bridge
32.9 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes