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Canyon de Chelly National Monument: A Timeless Landscape

Discover the ancient ruins and enduring Navajo culture of Canyon de Chelly, a sacred landscape shaped by millennia of history and natural beauty.

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Canyon de Chelly National Monument in northeastern Arizona protects a stunning landscape and rich cultural history. Inhabited for nearly 5,000 years, from Ancestral Puebloans to the Navajo, the monument offers a unique glimpse into the past and present. Explore the canyon rims, view ancient ruins, and learn about the traditions of the Navajo people who still call this place home.

A brief summary to Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Local tips

  • Visit the Welcome Center to learn about the park's history and culture, and to pick up maps and information.
  • Drive the North and South Rim Drives for stunning views of the canyon, with the North Rim best for morning photos and the South Rim for afternoon light.
  • Take a guided tour with an authorized Navajo guide to explore the canyon floor and see the ancient ruins and rock art up close.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months, as temperatures can be high.
  • Respect the land and the Navajo culture by staying on marked trails and following the guidance of your tour guide.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The recommended route to Canyon de Chelly National Monument is to drive to Chinle, AZ, via Highway 191, then turn east on Indian Route 7. The park entrance and Welcome Center are about 3 miles from the junction. There is no fee to enter Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Parking is available at the Welcome Center and along the rim drives. The parking lot is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No overnight parking is allowed.

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Discover more about Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located in northeastern Arizona within the Navajo Nation, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and human history. Established in 1931, the monument encompasses 84,000 acres of canyon lands, preserving the ruins of ancient civilizations and the continuing traditions of the Navajo people. The Navajo call this place Tséyi', the place within the rocks. For nearly 5,000 years, people have lived in these canyons, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes on the Colorado Plateau. Ancestral Puebloans built villages in the canyon, leaving behind remarkable ruins that can still be seen today. Around the 1700s, the Navajo people migrated to Canyon de Chelly, bringing their culture and traditions to this sacred place. Today, approximately 40 Navajo families continue to live and farm within the monument boundaries, maintaining a deep connection to the land. Visitors can explore Canyon de Chelly by driving along the North and South Rim Drives, which offer breathtaking views of the canyon below. The North Rim Drive features three overlooks, ideal for morning photography, while the South Rim Drive boasts seven overlooks, perfect for capturing the afternoon light. The iconic Spider Rock, a towering sandstone spire, is a must-see along the South Rim Drive. To truly experience Canyon de Chelly, consider taking a guided tour into the canyon with an authorized Navajo guide. These tours, available by vehicle, horseback, or hiking, provide access to the canyon floor and a closer look at the ancient ruins and rock art. Learn about the history, culture, and significance of this sacred place from knowledgeable Navajo guides. The park's Welcome Center is a great place to start your visit, offering maps, exhibits, and information about ranger programs and tours.

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