Artesian Well of Montezuma - Rimrock, AZ
Posted by: Groundspeak Regular Member DopeyDuck
N 34° 38.942 W 111° 45.138
12S E 431058 N 3834380
Montezuma Well was formed by the collapse of a limestone cavern. Over 1 million gallons of water a day flow continuously into the Well through an artesian spring resulting in an oasis for wildlife and humans for thousands of years.
Waymark Code: WM5J56
Location: Arizona, United States
Date Posted: 01/11/2009
Published By:Groundspeak Premium Member Clan Riffster
Views: 31
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According to Wikipedia, "Montezuma Well is a natural limestone artesian well near Rimrock, Arizona through which some 1,400,000 gallons of water flow each day. It is located 11 miles (18 km) northeast of the castle. The water is highly carbonated and contains high levels of arsenic. At least five endemic species live only in the Well: a diatom, a springtail, a water scorpion, an amphipod (Hyalella montezuma), and a leech (Erpodbella montezuma) -- the most endemic species in any spring in the Southwestern United States.

Montezuma Well's outflow has been used for irrigation since the 8th century. Part of a prehistoric canal is preserved at the picnic ground, and portions of the original Hohokam canal are still in use today.

In 1968, Montezuma Well was the subject of the first ever underwater archaeological survey to take place in a National Park, lead by archaeologist George R Fischer.

The Yavapai people believe they emerged into this world through the well, and as such, it is a very sacred place to them." Source: (visit link)


There are a few interpretive plaques located along the rim trail with more information.

National Park Service (visit link)
Montezuma Well Hours
Open Daily: 8 AM- 6 PM (June - August)
Open Daily: 8 AM -5 PM (September - May)

The entrance gate remains open during these hours seven days a week (closed on Christmas Day). Dogs are allowed on park trails but must remain on a leash no longer than six feet in length. Dog owners must pick up after their pets.

Available Services
Pit toilets (flush toilets available in picnic area), contact station, trails, and picnic area

Phone
(928)567-4521
Public or Private Land?: Public

Public Land Fees?: None at this time, Check the National Park Service for updated info.

Private Land access?: This spring is part of the National Park system, public access during open hours.
Visit Instructions:
Please post an original picture of the springs no GPS necessary along with your observations of the spring. What wildlife you saw if any and the condition of the springs. Water level was high, low. The area was clean, trashy ect. Any other knowledge or experiences you have had with this paticular spring that would help document it's history.
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