The Sears-Kay Ruin are the remains of what once was a fortification of the Hohokam culture. The ruins are located in the area of the Tonto National Forest just outside of the town of Carefree, Arizona. On November 24, 1995, it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Marker at the entrance of the Sears-Kay Ruin
In September 2020, a wildfire destroyed most of the vegetation at and around the site, making it less attractive for hiking.
Sears-Kay Ruin "A trail to the past" marker.
The starting point of "A Trail to the Past".
Hohokam was a culture in the North American Southwest in what is now part of south-central Arizona, United States, and Sonora, Mexico. It existed between 300 and 1500 CE, with cultural precursors possibly as early as 300 BCE. Archaeologists disagree about whether communities that practiced the culture were related or politically united. According to local oral tradition, Hohokam societies may be the ancestors of the historic Akimel and Tohono Oʼodham in Southern Arizona.
The Great House at the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
Hiking trail leading to Indian Mesa (in the background): The hiking trail is located on a portion of a canal which the Hohokam built in 700 CE. The canal is now filled with soil.
Sears-Kay Ruin Fort Mystery Room before circa 1050 CE: This room had rounded corners.
Sears-Kay Ruin Fort rooms with square corners, circa 1050 CE
