Point of Pines Sites

Point of Pines Sites are multiple archaeological locations in the eastern portion of San Carlos Apache Reservation containing remains of prehistoric settlements. The sites near Nantack Ridge hold building structures and numerous artifacts that show how people lived in this area long ago.

The site was established in 1946 as a field school led by Dr. Emil Haury, where systematic excavations took place over several years. The research provided important findings about how settlements developed and changed over time in this region during prehistoric periods.

The sites show evidence of people who lived here centuries ago and practiced different crafts visible through pottery styles and building methods. Found objects and structures tell stories of contact between groups from different regions who shared knowledge and goods.

The location sits on tribal land and access is limited; visiting requires proper permission and is often guided. It is important to arrange access ahead of time and follow all rules since the area is protected and reserved for research purposes.

Among the discoveries were items with patterns from distant groups showing that people here traded with neighbors hundreds of miles away. These objects suggest that trading networks existed even then, connecting distant communities.

Location: Arizona

GPS coordinates: 32.83333,-109.71667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:42