The Visitor Center at Navajo National Monument is open daily from 9AM to 5PM during summer and from 9AM to 5PM during winter. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee at Navajo National Monument; it is free to visit year-round.
From Kayenta, take HWY 160 west, turn right onto AZ HWY 564, and drive 9 miles to this ancient oasis, nestled in the heart of the Navajo Nation. Immerse yourself in timeless landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Parking is available near the Visitor Center. Cars, RVs up to 28 feet, and motorcycles can park. No parking fees, and overnight parking is allowed in the campgrounds. Pets permitted in parking lots.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Navajo National Monument, situated within the vast expanse of the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Ancestral Puebloan people. This national monument preserves three monumental pueblos – Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House – each carved into the natural alcoves of the Navajo Sandstone Formation, offering a stunning blend of ancient architecture and breathtaking natural beauty.
As you venture into this high desert landscape, the towering sandstone cliffs rise above, their rust-hued facades a stark contrast to the lush greenery of the canyon’s streambeds. Here, the Ancestral Puebloans once hunted wild game and farmed corn, beans, and squash, their legacy evident in the meticulously constructed dwellings. Keet Seel, with its over 150 rooms and six kivas, and Betatakin, boasting about 120 rooms and one kiva, stand as imposing reminders of a region-wide trend towards highly defensible, densely populated living areas in the mid to late 13th century.
The dry conditions and protection from the elements have preserved the intricate details of these ancient homes, including jacal walls made from wooden poles plastered with mud. As the seasons change, the monument transforms: spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers clear skies ideal for hiking the trails that wind through the monument, and autumn paints the landscape with vibrant hues.
For the discerning traveler, Navajo National Monument offers a range of experiences. Spend the night at the free primitive campgrounds, or take a guided tour to delve deeper into the history and cultural significance of the site. Nearby, the Navajo Nation’s rich cultural heritage is on full display, with local artisans and traditional crafts waiting to be discovered. This is a place where ancient history meets untouched natural beauty, inviting you to immerse yourself in the unique character of this extraordinary destination.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 41 314
- Established year
- 1909
Top 3 Facts about Navajo National Monument
At Keet Seel, archaeological excavations revealed 25 room clusters beneath the overhanging cliff wall, each including one common living room and one to four storage rooms, mirroring the layout of Pueblo III structures at Mesa Verde, with the dry conditions preserving jacal walls made from upright wooden poles plastered with mud.
This arid yet verdant landscape is home to 293 species of vascular plants, including the rare alcove bog-orchid and Mancos columbine. Ponderosa pine and pinyon-juniper woodlands dominate higher elevations, while desert shrublands and riparian communities with aspen and oak thrive below. The fauna is equally diverse, with 10 reptile species, including the Plateau Striped Whiptail and Sagebrush Lizard, and 5 amphibian species, such as Woodhouse’s Toad and the endangered Northern Leopard Frog. This unique ecosystem offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and biodiversity.
In the heart of the Colorado Plateau, towering Navajo Sandstone formations give rise to expansive alcoves, sculpted by groundwater flow, dissolution, and wind erosion. Here, water infiltrating the porous sandstone emerges as springs along canyon walls, creating a stark contrast against the arid landscape. The underlying Kayenta Formation acts as a barrier, directing this water laterally, a testament to the region’s complex geological history.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days for this trip, especially during summer when daylight saving time applies. Use Rte 564 for a smoother drive. Visit the visitor center early, and prepare for sunny, rocky trails with adequate water and rest breaks. No food options on site, so pack meals.
Pack Appropriately
Pack breathable hiking boots, wide-brimmed hat, and layers for temperature swings. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. For camping, include a well-ventilated tent, water treatment, and a portable stove. Hydrate with at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the arid landscape by staying on trails, avoiding sensitive flora, and not approaching wildlife. Bring water, wear sun protection, and keep a safe distance from animals to preserve this fragile ecosystem. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow signs and park rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 928-672-2700.deserialize
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures, 47°F to 71°F, and scenic blooms. Attend the annual Navajo Cultural Festival in May, experiencing rich heritage amidst mild humidity and gentle breezes. Ideal for hiking and exploration.
Explore ancient cliff dwellings amidst summer’s warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and monsoon rains. Join free ranger-led hikes from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and experience the rich cultural heritage of this desert landscape.
Visit in fall, from September to November, when mild temperatures (60s-70s Fahrenheit) and clear skies enhance the ancient cliff dwellings. Enjoy the Navajo Nation Fair in September, a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage. Ideal weather makes it a perfect time to explore scenic trails and immerse in rich cultural history.
Experience the serene beauty of winter from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 29°F to 45°F. Light snowfall and crisp air create a photographic haven, though occasional flash flooding may occur. Ideal for those seeking solitude and unique landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Navajo National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Navajo National Monument, you should stay in Tuba City, Arizona, or nearby Kayenta, Arizona, as these cities offer the closest accommodations. Another option is Mexican Hat, Utah, which is also relatively close.
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You can bring your dog to the campgrounds as long as it is on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, dogs are not allowed on trails or in the visitor center. They must be restrained and wear a collar with current tags at all times.
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Overnight RV parking is allowed but only for RVs up to 28 feet in length at the Sunset View Campground. Larger RVs are not permitted due to the narrow roads. Tent camping is allowed at the Canyon View Campground.
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Visit the Visitor Center to get maps and information about the monument. Take a self-guided trail to a viewpoint or join a seasonal ranger-led hike to explore the cliff dwellings of Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House, which were last occupied around 1300 AD. Camp at Sunset View or Canyon View campgrounds to experience the natural and cultural surroundings.