Navajo National Monument

 

Location: Navajo & Coconino counties, AZ   Map

Area: 360 acres (150 ha)

Tel. (928) 672- 2700

Open: 8am- 5pm daily

Closed: Jan 1, Thanksgiving, Dec 25

Official site

 

Description of Navajo National Monument

Navajo National Monument is situated in Navajo & Coconino counties, Arizona in United States. Navajo National Monument is famous for cliff dwelling of the ancient native tribe known as the Anasazi that are spread over an area of 360 acres (150 ha). Navajo National Monument was constructed by the ancient Puebloan People in the 1200's and 1300's who settled Shonto plateau and nearby Tsegi Canyon system. Navajo National Monument is divided into three major groups of cliff buildings including Keet Seel, Betatakin, and Inscription House. All three groups of ancient settlements are accessible by a fairly simple hike via the Sandal Trail. It is about 1 mile (1.6 km) long and end at the Betataking ruins across 560 ft deep (170 meters) Betatakin Canyon. Betatakin ruins are only accessible by a guided ranger tour. You need to make an arrangement at the Navajo National Monument Visitor Center that provides schedule of the tours.

Hopi legends tell a different tale. According to oral tradition, the area known as Wunuqa (modern day Tsegi Canyon) was abandoned as part of a spiritual quest. In particular, the Snake Clan inhabited the Navajo National Monument ruins, along with the Horn Clan. The Horn Clan forced the Snake Clan out, due to the children of the Snake Clan biting other children and causing death. This may be an allegory for some historical occurrence, in which one group forced another out for a perceived fault or slight.

Camping in Navajo National Monument

Camping is available all year, however it has only 30 sites and it is on first come, first serve basis so during popular weeks (e.g. holidays) it is usually taken. Reservations are available for large groups with 10 person minimum at the overflow campground that has 11 sites. There is water available on site, but no showers. It is also not advisable to drink it. There is no water or food sold in Navajo National Monument so you need to buy any items that you need before coming here.
 

General rules in Navajo National Monument

Authorities in Navajo National Monument are pretty stringent on these rules so don't try to avoid them. It is a small park so there is now way to avoid them.
Wood fires are not allowed except on designated picnic or camping areas
Don't try to pitch a tent in areas that are not designated for camping
Don't try to sneak into Navajo National Monument that are off limits or require a guided trail. Structures in Navajo National Monument are very fragile and can easily collapse causing injury to tourists and priceless ancient remains.
Keep pets leashed at all time. Additionally pets are not allowed on the trails or in the buildings