Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is a Lesson in History

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is located on the Texas Panhandle, about 35 miles north of the city of Amarillo. Close to Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, this national monument protects the only exposed source of Alibates flint (agatized dolomite) in the country.

Located near the Canadian River, the monument features 736 quarry pits that were essential to the lives of those who dwelled in the region as long ago as 12,000 years. These quarries contain colorful flint in hues of red, orange, yellow, blue, and green, considered by ancient civilizations to be among the best materials from which to make defensive weapons, such as arrowheads, and the tools essential for everyday living. Historians say the flint from these quarries may have been used as recently as the late 19th century, but today the fragile and historic area is protected from any form of excavation.

The pits vary in width from five to about 25 feet and many were once as deep as 10 feet. However, the lack of use has caused several of the quarries to fill with dirt and vegetation, making them much shallower than in the past.

The quarry pits, which sit on a hilltop overlooking the Canadian River, can only be explored via ranger-led tours because of the fragility of the national monument. Available by reservation only, these tours take visitors on a one mile hike to the pits along a moderately steep trail with loose gravel. Rangers are well-versed in the history of the area and will educate visitors as to the uses of flint and the history of the civilizations that inhabited the region. The tour takes about 2 hours and includes several stops and time to take photographs. Groups are welcome but should number less than 25.

Additional self-guided hiking opportunities are available away from the quarry pits and wildlife viewing is quite popular here as well, with plentiful opportunities for photographing native roadrunners, antelope, deer, wild turkeys, and other animals.

Those who wish to partake of water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, and swimming can visit adjacent Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, just a few miles from Alibates Flint National Monument. Lake Meredith also offers camping facilities and other amenities and activities. Additional lodging and food are available in the nearby towns of Fritch, Borger, and Stinnett.

Because summers on the Texas Panhandle can be scorching hot, the best time to visit Alibates Flint National Monument is during the late fall, winter, or early spring. Because of severe weather, including tornadoes and high winds, tours can be cancelled with little notice. Visitors should call Ranger Headquarters before arrival at the park if weather is an issue.