Tuzigoot National Monument is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM, except for Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1.
The entrance fee at Tuzigoot National Monument is $10 per adult aged 16 and over, valid for 7 days. Children under 16 are free. An annual pass is $35.
From Sedona, follow Highway 89A west for 17 miles, then turn right onto E Mingus Ave, and later onto Tuzigoot Rd, immersing yourself in ancient ruins nestled in the Verde Valley.
Parking is available in a main lot at the monument’s entrance, with designated handicapped parking. The lot accommodates cars, RVs, and motorcycles, but there is no overnight parking. No specific size restrictions for RVs are mentioned. There are no parking fees, but an entrance pass is required for the monument.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tuzigoot National Monument, perched atop a limestone and sandstone ridge in Arizona’s Verde Valley, is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Sinagua people who built this 110-room hilltop pueblo over 1,000 years ago. The monument rises 120 feet above the Verde River floodplain, offering breathtaking vistas of the valley below.
As you meander through the ruins, the rustic beauty of the ancient structures blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. The site is a hub of historical and cultural significance, with an on-site museum showcasing an impressive collection of pottery, textiles, and tools that reveal the lifestyle of the Sinagua people. These artifacts provide a glimpse into how the community thrived, cultivating crops by diverting river water and forming a vital trade route that connected them to indigenous communities hundreds of miles away.
The trails that wind around and inside the pueblo are dotted with informative markers, guiding visitors through the history of this once-vital agricultural community. The adobe walls, now weathered to a warm earth tone, stand as a silent witness to the lives of those who called Tuzigoot home from 1000 to 1300 AD.
Visitors can enhance their experience by exploring the nearby artisan town of Clarkdale, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic charm. For those interested in further exploration, the admission fee includes access to Montezuma Castle, another significant archaeological site in the area.
As the seasons change, Tuzigoot transforms; the spring brings bursts of wildflowers, summer offers clear skies and warm days ideal for hiking, and autumn paints the landscape with hues of gold and crimson. While winter may bring cooler temperatures, it also offers a serene tranquility that makes the monument even more compelling.
For an immersive experience, plan your visit to coincide with the park’s interpretive programs or special events, which often include ranger-led tours and cultural demonstrations. Whether you are an history buff, an avid hiker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the American Southwest, Tuzigoot National Monument is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 78 358
- Established year
- 1939
Top 3 Facts about Tuzigoot National Monument
The inhabitants of this ancient pueblo used ladders to enter rooms through trapdoor-type openings in the roofs, as the structure incorporates very few doors, highlighting the unique architectural design of the Sinagua people. The walls, built from flat rock, may have been up to 30 feet high.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, crepuscular animals like elk, mule deer, and coyotes roam at dusk and dawn, while nocturnal creatures such as bobcats, mountain lions, and owls thrive under the cover of night. Diurnal residents include rock squirrels, chipmunks, and eagles soaring overhead. The riparian corridor is home to cottonwood, sycamore, and willow trees, and the hillsides are dotted with cacti and mesquite bosque. This diverse ecosystem is a haven for over 245 bird species and a critical stop for migratory songbirds and waterfowl.
Perched 120 feet above the Verde River floodplain, this ancient pueblo site sits on a limestone and sandstone ridge, overlooking a valley sculpted by the river’s continuous channel incision, with Tavasci Marsh and Peck’s Lake forming a tranquil oxbow landscape below. The surrounding terrain is draped in Quaternary terrace deposits, a testament to the region’s geological history.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Scouting Partnerships
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit early to avoid summer heat. Allow an hour for ruins and trails. Save receipt for 7-day pass to nearby sites. Limited on-site dining; pack meals. Restrooms and gift shop available. Anticipate steep sections on trails.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for desert temperature swings, sturdy hiking boots, and ample water. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Check seasonal weather forecasts to adjust gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Respect nocturnal animals by avoiding nighttime disturbances. Stay on trails, remove invasive plants, and maintain water sources to preserve unique habitats and wildlife, especially during hot summer months. Leave the area as you found it to protect sensitive species like the Arizona cliffrose and southern bald eagle.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather and fire restrictions. Bring plenty of water and let someone know your plans. For emergencies, call (928) 634-5564. Be cautious of storms and rugged terrain.
Seasons
Visit in spring (March to May) when temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F. Enjoy mild weather and vibrant wildflowers. Attend the annual Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival in April to spot over 245 bird species amidst ancient ruins and lush landscapes. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore ancient hilltop pueblo ruins amidst sweltering summer days (95°F-115°F) from June to August. Witness heavy monsoon rains and cooler nights. Visit during the summer monsoon season for a unique experience.
Visit in fall, when temperatures range from 60-80°F, and enjoy mild weather. Attend the Verde Valley Archaeology Fair in October to delve into ancient cultures. Hike trails with vibrant autumn foliage and explore a 110-room pueblo against a backdrop of golden hues. Ideal for a serene and enlightening experience.
Winter brings mild temperatures, averaging 55°F, making December to February ideal for exploring ancient pueblo ruins under clear skies, avoiding the intense summer heat. Low humidity and cool days create a serene backdrop for this historical gem.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Tuzigoot 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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The closest city to Tuzigoot National Monument is Clarkdale, Arizona, which is about 1 mile north. Cottonwood, Arizona, is also nearby, approximately 3 miles north.
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Dogs are not allowed inside the visitor center, except for service animals. They are, however, permitted on the trails as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
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Yes, parking is available in a lot at the entrance. There is also designated handicapped parking near the Visitor Center and the Canopy Trail. No public transportation is available.
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Explore the 110-room hilltop pueblo site built by the Sinagua people over 1,000 years ago and learn about their agricultural community and trade routes. Visit the on-site museum to see exhibits featuring ceramics, textiles, and tools that highlight the lifestyle of the Sinagua people. Take the trails along the Verde River, to the edge of Tavasci Marsh, or along the top of the ridge for panoramic views and historical insights.