The Pinaleño Mountains or "Mount Graham" is a unique ecological treasure that is sacred to the San Carlos Apache. It is the tallest mountain in southern Arizona and encompasses 6 different life zones from the valley floor to its peak at 10,720 feet (3,267 meters). It is the tallest mountain in southern Arizona.

For decades, Apaches, scientists, conservationists, and university students have resisted the University of Arizona's decision to build several large telescopes on the mountain's summit.