For thousands of years, people came to the red bluffs above the Canadian River for flint, vital to their existence. For more than 10,000 years, pre-Columbian Indians dug agatized dolomite from quarries here to make projectile points, knives, scrapers and other tools. Demand for the high quality, rainbow-hued flint is reflected in the distribution of Alibates Flint through the Great Plains and beyond. Today, the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is protected by the National Park Service and is the only National Monument in Texas. The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument can only be viewed by ranger-led guided tours. Tours are offered by reservation only, please give them plenty of time to arrange a tour.
Recreation
The monument can only be viewed by ranger-led guided tours. Groups of twenty-five or less are recommended. Much of the trail is single file and individuals in the rear of larger groups may have difficulty hearing the ranger at the front of the group. The tour involves a leisurely walk up a moderately steep trail that is covered in loose gravel in places. During the two-hour tour, visitors will learn about the flora, fauna and cultural history of the area. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Tours are offered by advanced reservation only, please give them plenty of time to arrange a tour. Call the park at 806-857-3151. No fees charged. Headquarters is closed on weekends and holidays.
Getting There
By Plane
Amarillo International Airport has commercial service and rental cars.
By Car
Highway 136 to the Cas Johnson Road (25 miles north of Amarillo, 7 miles south of Fritch). Follow Cas Johnson Road 5 miles to the Bates Canyon contact station. Ranger or volunteer will meet participants there, then lead them in their vehicles 3 miles further to the monument site.
Traveler Facts
Contact Information
Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
P. O. Box 1460
Fritch, TX 79036
- or -
419 E. Broadway
Fritch, TX 79036
Phone: 806-857-3151 (Visitor Information)
Fax: 806-857-2319
Operating Hours & Seasons
The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument can be viewed by advanced reservation guided tours only. Contact park headquarters at 806-857-3151. No visitor center or self guided trails.
Weather/Climate
Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument has four seasons with cool and rainy winters and hot and dry summers. Winter lows are frequently in the single digits F. Temperatures during the summer can reach as high as 105 F.
