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Island Trail: A Journey into Sinagua History

Explore ancient cliff dwellings and immerse yourself in the history of the Sinagua people on Walnut Canyon's Island Trail.

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Descend into Walnut Canyon and step back in time on the Island Trail, a one-mile loop showcasing the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. This unique trail offers an intimate look at 25 partially restored rooms built into the canyon walls, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who called this place home over 800 years ago.

A brief summary to Island Trail

  • 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, Arizona, 86004, US
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Local tips

  • Bring water and wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the Island Trail involves a descent and ascent with over 240 steps.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.
  • Check trail conditions before you go, as the Island Trail may be closed in winter due to snow or ice.
  • Take time to explore the visitor center exhibits and learn about the history and culture of the Sinagua people.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Flagstaff, drive east on I-40 to Exit 204. Follow the signs for Walnut Canyon National Monument and continue for about 3 miles to the visitor center. Parking is available at the visitor center. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Alternatively, you can use the America the Beautiful Pass if you have one.

  • Public Transport

    From the Flagstaff Downtown Connection Center, take the Mountain Line Route 4 bus towards Coconino Community College. Get off at the Flagstaff Mall Connection Center and take a taxi or ride-share to Walnut Canyon National Monument. The taxi ride will cost approximately $26-$31. The bus fare is approximately $2.

Unlock the Best of Island Trail

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Discover more about Island Trail

The Island Trail at Walnut Canyon National Monument offers a remarkable journey into the past, inviting visitors to explore the well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. This one-mile loop descends 185 feet into Walnut Canyon, leading you around a natural 'island' formed by a meander of Walnut Creek. Along the way, you'll encounter 25 partially restored cliff dwelling rooms, constructed roughly 800 years ago. The Sinagua, meaning 'without water' in Spanish, were ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area from approximately 1125 to 1250 A.D. They built their homes in the natural alcoves of the canyon walls, farming the canyon rims and hunting local wildlife. The Island Trail provides a unique opportunity to witness their ingenuity and adaptation to this environment. As you walk the trail, notice the blackened ceilings in some rooms, remnants of the fires used for heating and cooking. Imagine the daily lives of the Sinagua as you peer into these ancient spaces, and consider the cultural changes and adaptations evident in their architecture. The Island Trail offers not only a close-up view of the cliff dwellings but also a chance to appreciate the diverse plant life clinging to the canyon walls.

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