Background

Navajo Nation Monument: A Window into Ancestral Puebloan Life

Discover ancient cliff dwellings and explore the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloan people at Navajo National Monument in Arizona.

4.4

Nestled within the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, Navajo National Monument protects remarkably preserved cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Explore the history and culture of these ancient inhabitants at Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House, offering a glimpse into a life sustained by the canyons for centuries.

A brief summary to Navajo Nation Monument

  • Monument Valley Rd, Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah, 84536, US

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience of the Betatakin cliff dwelling from the Sandal Trail overlook.
  • Check fire restrictions at the visitor center, especially during dry summers.
  • Wear appropriate attire, including a hat, long sleeves, and tennis shoes, as the weather can be unpredictable.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Navajo National Monument is located off US Highway 160. Turn north onto AZ Highway 564, and follow it to the park's visitor center, approximately 9 miles from the highway. Be aware that GPS and cell phone services can be unreliable in the Navajo Nation, so it's best to stay on paved roads and follow the recommended route. There is no fee to enter Navajo National Monument.

Unlock the Best of Navajo Nation Monument

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Navajo Nation Monument

Navajo National Monument, located high on the Shonto plateau in northern Arizona, safeguards three of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the Southwest: Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House. These dwellings, built by the Ancestral Puebloan people, date back to the 13th century and offer a unique glimpse into their lives and culture. Established in 1909, the monument preserves not only the physical structures but also the stories of the people who once called these canyons home. The dwellings are nestled within large, natural alcoves formed in the towering Navajo Sandstone Formation, providing shelter and access to spring water. The Ancestral Puebloans farmed the canyon streambeds, growing corn, beans, and squash, and hunted wild game to thrive in this high desert environment. Visitors can explore the monument's visitor center, which features a museum with artifacts and exhibits about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Three self-guided trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Betatakin cliff dwelling. For a closer look at Betatakin, ranger-led tours are available, providing an opportunity to learn more about the site's history and architecture. Keet Seel, the largest of the three sites, requires a backcountry permit and a strenuous 17-mile roundtrip hike. Inscription House is currently closed to visitors due to its remote location and fragility. The Hopi, San Juan Southern Paiute, Zuni, and Navajo people have inhabited these canyons for centuries, each leaving their mark on the land. Today, the monument stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of these cultures and a reminder of the importance of preserving our shared history.

Popular Experiences near Navajo Nation Monument

Popular Hotels near Navajo Nation Monument

Select Currency