The Mescalero Apache Indian Tribe
Welcomes You

The Mescalero Apache Tribe owns and operates the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino as well as other Reservation-based enterprises. They are proud to welcome you to their sovereign nation and hope that you will enjoy the vast beauty of their Tribal Homelands.

About the Tribe

The Mescalero Apache Tribe was established by Executive Order of President Ulysses S. Grant on May 27, 1873. Prior to the reservation period, the Mescalero people were nomadic hunters and gathers and roamed the Southwest.

The present day Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation is approximately 720 square miles. The elevation ranges from 5400 to over 12,000. The majority of the land is covered with timber pine, fir, spruce, aspen, white oak, pinon, and juniper. Today, the population exceeds 4,000 enrolled tribal members. Approximately one-half of the population is under the age of 18. Most of the tribal membership lives on the reservation.

The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino is the second largest employer in Otero County and the major employer in Lincoln County. The facility has made great contributions to the economy of the reservation and local neighboring communities. It is the crowning achievement of the Mescalero Apache Tribe and tribal members are very proud of “the best all season resort destination in the Southwest”.

Understanding Apache Etiquette

Staring - Do not stare or look at people with direct eye contact. This is considered impolite. It is disrespectful to stare at all generations of our Mescalero Apache people. Pointing is also viewed as impolite.

Affection - The Mescalero Apache people show respect for one another in the sense that little affection is expressed. Some Apaches do not mind being hugged and respond positively to appropriate gestures of affection; others might feel uncomfortable. Use good judgment and be sensitive to the signals they give you. Understand that some of our people may not want to be touched. This is not intended as disrespect or prejudice toward you.

This Mescalero Apache cultural and historical information was compiled by Kate Geronimo Hernandez, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino.