Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a hidden gem located in the northeastern corner of Arizona. The park covers over 83,000 acres and is home to towering sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and a rich cultural history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the highlights of Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

Geological Features

The most striking feature of Canyon de Chelly National Monument is its towering sandstone cliffs. The canyon was formed over millions of years by the erosive power of water and wind, and the resulting landscape is both beautiful and dramatic.

Visitors to the park can take in the stunning views of the canyon from several overlooks along the park’s rim. The most popular of these overlooks is probably the Spider Rock Overlook, which offers a breathtaking view of the park’s signature sandstone spire.

Hiking Trails

While the overlooks provide stunning views of the canyon, the best way to fully appreciate Canyon de Chelly National Monument is by hitting the hiking trails. The park offers several trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so visitors of all ages and fitness levels can find a hike that suits them.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the White House Trail, which descends into the canyon and leads visitors to the White House Ruin, an ancient cliff dwelling that was built by the Ancestral Puebloans. The trail is just over two miles round trip and offers stunning views of the canyon along the way.

Another popular hike is the Spider Rock Trail, which leads visitors to the base of the park’s iconic sandstone spire. The trail is just over a mile round trip and is relatively easy, making it a great choice for families with young children.

Cultural History

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is also home to a rich cultural history. The park is located on Navajo land, and the canyon has been inhabited by the Navajo people for over 5,000 years. The park is home to several ancient cliff dwellings that were built by the Ancestral Puebloans, who inhabited the area from around 350 to 1300 AD.

Visitors to the park can learn about the area’s cultural history by visiting the park’s visitor center, where they can view exhibits and attend ranger talks. The park also offers guided tours led by Navajo guides, who can provide visitors with a unique perspective on the area’s history and culture.

Wildlife

While the cultural and geological features of Canyon de Chelly National Monument are certainly impressive, the park is also home to a variety of wildlife species. Visitors may spot mule deer, pronghorn antelope, or even the occasional black bear or mountain lion while exploring the park’s trails. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to see, as the park is home to a variety of species such as the bald eagle, the peregrine falcon, and the canyon wren.

Visitor Center

The Canyon de Chelly National Monument Visitor Center is an excellent place to start your visit to the park. Here, visitors can learn about the park’s cultural and natural history through exhibits, films, and ranger talks. The center also offers information on hiking trails and other activities in the park, as well as a bookstore where visitors can purchase souvenirs.

Navajo Guided Tours

One of the highlights of visiting Canyon de Chelly National Monument is the opportunity to take a guided tour led by a Navajo guide. The tours offer visitors a unique perspective on the area’s cultural history and can provide insight into Navajo life and culture.

There are several different types of tours available, including Jeep tours, horseback tours, and hiking tours. Visitors can choose from several different tour operators.