Mescalero Apache Reservation
The Mescalero Apache Reservation is located in southern New Mexico near the city of Ruidoso off U.S. 70. The Mescalero tribe is perhaps most famous for its Inn of the Mountain Gods resort, which offers first-rate golf, fishing, tennis and horseback riding, P.O. Box 269, Mescalero, N.M. 88340; (505) 464-5141. The resort also operates the Casino Apache and Ina Da Card Room for those who feel lucky; (877) 277-5677, (505) 464-4100.
The Mescalero tribe's mountainous lands also present exciting opportunities for outdoor adventurers, from camping, hiking and fishing at two of the tribal lakes to guided big-game hunting; call (505) 464-4494 for more information. During the winter, plan to slide down the slopes of Ski Apache, P.O. Box 220, Ruidoso 88355; (505) 336-4356, snowphone (505) 257-9001.
www.skiapache.com
Mescalero traditions remain strong, as evidenced by the Apache Maidens' Puberty Rites, held in conjunction with the tribe's annual 4th of July Celebration. Another must-see is the St. Joseph Church, a European-style cathedral, which sits on the east side of the community. It took 23 years to build and was completed in 1939. No cameras are allowed.
Mescalero, the tribal capital, has a small museum and shopping center and the tribe also operates a wood-products business and a livestock enterprise. Census 2000 tallied 3,156 residents on the reservation.
Mescalero Apache Reservation
P.O. Box 227
Mescalero, N.M. 88340
Phone: (505) 464-4494
Fax: 464-9191