Honanki Heritage Site: Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Discover ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings and rock art at Honanki Heritage Site, a window into Arizona's prehistoric past near Sedona.
Honanki Heritage Site, meaning "Bear House" in Hopi, is one of the largest prehistoric pueblos in the Verde Valley. This remarkable site showcases well-preserved cliff dwellings and rock art created by the Sinagua people, ancestors of the Hopi, who resided here from approximately 1100 to 1300 CE. Later, the Yavapai and Apache people also inhabited the area, leaving their mark on the rock art. Visitors can explore the site via a 0.6-mile self-guided loop trail, with interpretive signs detailing the construction of the pueblos and the lifestyle of the Sinagua people. The trail leads to the base of a cliff where the dwellings are tucked away, offering a unique perspective on the lives of those who once called this place home. The rock art, including pictographs and petroglyphs, provides further insight into the beliefs and daily activities of these ancient cultures. Some artwork even predates the Sinagua, dating back to 2000 BCE. Honanki provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the ingenuity and artistry of the early inhabitants of the region. The site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and is open to the public, allowing visitors to experience this significant piece of history.
Local tips
- The road to Honanki is rough and requires a high-clearance vehicle. Check road conditions before heading out, especially after rain.
- Bring water, as there is no drinking water available at the site.
- Purchase a Red Rock Pass online or at the vending machine on-site to park. Credit cards are usually accepted at the vending machine.
- Visit during cooler months or in the morning, as the site can close due to extreme heat.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Palatki Heritage Site or a hike in the surrounding Coconino National Forest.
A brief summary to Honanki Heritage Site
- 11450 N Loy Butte Rd, Sedona, Arizona, 86336, US
- +1928-203-2900
Getting There
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Driving
From Sedona, take Highway 89A west for approximately 9.6 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 525 (Loy Butte Road), a dirt road located just past mile marker 365. Follow Forest Road 525 for about 9.5 miles to the Honanki Heritage Site. The road is rough and requires a high-clearance vehicle. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking, and can be purchased at a vending machine on-site for $5. Be aware that the site may close when temperatures reach 100 degrees or the roads are impassable due to bad weather.
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Pink Jeep Tour
If you prefer not to drive, consider taking a Pink Jeep Tour from Sedona. Pink Adventure Tours is the exclusive tour operator for Honanki Heritage Site and offers guided tours that include transportation to and from the site, as well as historical information about the ruins. Tours cost around $100 per person.
