The Sierra Ancha mountain range is located in central Arizona's Gila County. Its remote location and numerous deep canyons prevent development. Unusually pristine, the Sierra Ancha mountains are home to a wealth of geological and archaeological information.
The rock formations that make up the Sierra Ancha mountains are quartzite and limestone. Their presence indicates the area may have once been on the shores of an ancient sea. The archaeological wonders of the mountain range make it a place of untouched beauty for hikers who are not intimidated by the remote location.
The Sierra Ancha mountains cliff dwellings are home to the ruins of the Anchan and Salado, native American people. These dwellings were built between A.D. 1200 and A.D. 1300. and reach three stories in height in some areas. Built in this remote location, using the hard rock for protection, these native Americans were farmers. They grew corn, beans, and cotton on the canyon floor below.
High in the Sierra Ancha mountains, the average precipitation is 36 inches per year. This precipitation comes mainly in the form of snow fall. In lower elevations, rain accounts for approximately 20 inches per year.
Juniper, Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine trees are the predominate vegetation in the Sierra Ancha Mountains. The dry, hot climate also makes it a perfect home for rattlesnakes.
