The Wupatki National Monument Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with exceptions during extreme weather and select holidays.
The entrance fee at Wupatki National Monument is $15 per person for those 16 and older, or $25 per vehicle for up to 15 passengers, valid for seven days. Annual passes are also available, such as the Flagstaff Area National Monuments Pass for $45 or the America the Beautiful pass for $80.
From Flagstaff, take US-89 North for 12 miles, turn right at the Sunset Crater sign. Immerse yourself in ancient pueblos and stunning desert landscapes, a 45-minute drive through northern Arizona’s breathtaking scenery.
At Wupatki National Monument, the parking lot is a one-way loop with 40 single car spaces, 2 accessible spaces, 7 spaces for vehicles up to 15-person capacity, and 6 spaces for larger RVs and commercial buses. No overnight parking; $25 per vehicle or with America the Beautiful pass.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Wupatki National Monument, situated in the heart of north-central Arizona, is a testament to the rich cultural and natural heritage of the American Southwest. This ancient pueblo complex, framed by the stark beauty of the Painted Desert and the dense ponderosa highlands, offers a captivating journey through time and landscape.
The monument is home to over 2,600 ancestral Puebloan sites, with the Wupatki Pueblo standing as the largest and most impressive structure, boasting more than 100 rooms. The walls of these pueblos, crafted from local Moenkopi sandstone, glow with a distinctive red hue, enduring reminders of a thriving community that once flourished here.
Seasonal changes bring vivid contrasts to the area; spring blooms with wildflowers, summer heats up with clear blue skies, and autumn paints the landscape with golden hues. The nearby San Francisco Peaks provide a dramatic backdrop, while the geological blowhole, a natural wonder where wind escapes from a cave system, adds an element of mystique.
Visitors can explore the ball court, a rare example of Mesoamerican influence in the region, and trek through trails that weave through the archaeological sites. The area is alive with stories passed down among Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni tribes, who periodically return to enrich their understanding of their clan history.
For those seeking a deeper connection, ranger-led tours provide insightful narratives into the history and significance of the site. Nearby, the charming town of Flagstaff offers artisan shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy lodges that complement the monument’s rustic allure. This is a place where the past meets the present, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the unique cultural and natural tapestry of Wupatki National Monument.
- Area (mi²)
- 56
- Annual visitors
- 205 122
- Established year
- 1924
Top 3 Facts about Wupatki National Monument
The eruption of nearby Sunset Crater Volcano in 1064-65 led to the cultivation of cinder soils, allowing Native American farmers to settle in the area. The cinders held moisture, enabling crop growth in this dry region, supporting a population of up to 100 people in the largest dwellings.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, coyotes, pronghorn, and mule deer roam alongside jackrabbits and cottontail rabbits. The ground is dotted with succulents and shrubs like One-seed Juniper and Whipple Cholla, adapted with small leaves and waxy coatings to conserve water. Lizards and snakes thrive in the sparsely vegetated high desert, while birds such as Steller jays add a splash of color against the rugged terrain. Unique flora includes banana yucca, spear globemallow, and Apache plume, each a testament to the region’s resilient biodiversity.
In this arid landscape, the Moenkopi Formation stands out with its vibrant red sandstone ledges and siltstone slopes, a testament to the Triassic era. These strata, once up to 220 feet thick, now expose their layered history beneath volcanic rocks. The gentle northeast dip of these ancient rocks adds a subtle elegance to the desert vistas.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit year-round, sunrise to sunset. Arrive early to beat summer heat. Park near the Visitor Center, then explore paved trails and stairs to ancient ruins. Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. No on-site dining; plan meals in advance. Enjoy the cool breeze from the blowhole during summer mornings.
Pack Appropriately
Pack essentials like a map, compass, GPS, sunscreen, hat, and a first aid kit. Bring a backpack with water, snacks, and a portable charger. Consider a bandana for dust protection and layers for changing weather.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the arid landscape and its inhabitants by staying on trails, avoiding wildlife habitats, and not feeding animals. Bring water, wear protective gear, and be mindful of seasonal heat and wildlife migration routes. Leave no trace to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and check weather conditions. Avoid touching fragile structures and stay on trails to prevent erosion. Watch for poisonous snakes and extreme temperatures. For emergencies, call park authorities at 928-606-2900.
Seasons
In spring, from March to May, temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Blooming desert plants color the landscape, and after summer rains, ephemeral pools and Triops hatching in the ballcourt add to the allure. Crisp conditions make it a perfect time to explore.
Visit in summer for the annual Full Moon Hike, despite temperatures often above 100°F and high winds. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to navigate ancient pueblo ruins under the intense desert sun. June to August, be prepared for extreme heat.【Summer splendor amidst ancient ruins】
Visit in fall for crisp temperatures (60-80°F) and vibrant desert landscapes. Enjoy the Flagstaff Oktoberfest in October, amidst mild days and cool nights, perfect for hiking and cultural exploration. Ideal time for sightseeing and immersion in the region’s rich history.
Visit in winter for a serene, icy landscape. December to February brings mild daytime temperatures in the 50s, but nights often dip below freezing with occasional snow showers. A tranquil time to explore ancient ruins, though temperatures can be chilly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Wupatki 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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You should stay in Flagstaff, Arizona, as it is the closest city to the monument and offers various hotels and amenities. Flagstaff is about 26-27 miles from the monument, making it a convenient base for your visit.
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You can bring your dog to the parking lots and areas next to the Visitor Center, but only if it is on a leash. Dogs are not allowed on trails or inside buildings, except for ADA-recognized service animals.
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You can park an RV, camper, or motorhome in the parking lot, which has spaces for larger RVs and commercial buses. However, camping or overnight stays in these vehicles are not allowed within the monument. The parking lot includes spaces for vehicles up to 15-person capacity and larger RVs.
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The visitor center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It operates seven days a week, including Mondays through Sundays, with these hours consistent throughout the year, except for possible closures on special days or holidays.