The 71,100-acre Agua Fria National Monument encompasses two mesas and the Agua Fria River Canyon at elevations ranging from about 2,150 feet along the canyon, to about 4,600 feet in the northern hills.
Located 40 miles north of central Phoenix, this contrasting mosaic of semi-desert area divided by veins of riparian forest offers one of the most significant systems of prehistoric sites in America's Southwest. At least 450 known prehistoric sites exist within its boundaries, and many of the monument's intact petroglyph sites feature rock art symbols etched into boulders and cliff faces.
Visitors to the undeveloped site are encouraged to observe, enjoy and photograph the rock art and artifacts but to leave artifact there for others to enjoy. Other activities include primitive camping hiking, hunting, and rugged back-country vehicle travel (off-road travel is not permited), and other activities.
Other notable remainders include extensive stone agricultural terracing and landscape modification. Situated near rapidly expanding communities, Agua Fria's outstanding biological resources,- a diversity of vegetative communities, a wide array of sensitive wildlife species, and native fish,- continue to face the challenge of the future.