Canyon de Chelly, Arizona
A Sacred Sanctuary of History and Natural Beauty
A Sacred Sanctuary of History and Natural Beauty
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Overview
Canyon de Chelly (pronounced "de-shay") is a powerful and sacred place located within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Unlike many other national monuments, it is a living landscape, with Navajo families continuing to live and farm on the canyon floor as their ancestors have for generations. Its towering sandstone cliffs, ancient cliff dwellings, and rock art preserve over 5,000 years of human history, from the Ancestral Puebloans to the modern-day Navajo.
A visit to Canyon de Chelly is a profound experience that combines spectacular scenery with a deep cultural immersion. While visitors can drive along the canyon's rims for panoramic views, access to the canyon floor is restricted and requires a certified Navajo guide, making it a truly unique and respectful way to experience this special place.
The most accessible way to see Canyon de Chelly is by driving the two scenic rim roads. The South Rim Drive offers several overlooks with incredible views, including the famous Spider Rock, a towering 800-foot sandstone spire. The North Rim Drive gives you a different perspective of the canyon and its ancient dwellings.
Tip: The South Rim is best for afternoon photos due to the light, while the North Rim offers great morning light. Binoculars are a must-have for spotting the distant ruins.
To truly experience Canyon de Chelly, you must descend into the canyon itself, and this can only be done with an authorized Navajo guide. Tours are available by 4x4 vehicle, horseback riding, or a few authorized hiking tours. This is a unique opportunity to see the ruins, petroglyphs, and way of life on the canyon floor up close.
Tip: Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season. You can find a list of authorized tour operators at the Visitor Center or on the Navajo Nation Parks website.
The White House Ruin is one of the most famous and accessible cliff dwellings in the canyon. While the public hiking trail down to the ruins is currently closed, you can get a spectacular view from the designated overlook on the South Rim Drive. The ruins are built into the cliff face, with a smaller portion on the canyon floor below, making them particularly striking.
Tip: Your guide will be able to share the history and stories behind this important archaeological site on a guided tour of the canyon floor.
This iconic, two-spire rock formation at the end of the South Rim Drive is a must-see. In Navajo tradition, the taller of the two spires is said to be the home of Spider Woman, a powerful deity who taught the Navajo people how to weave.
Tip: The overlook is a popular spot for photographers, especially in the late afternoon.
Start your visit at the Canyon de Chelly National Monument Visitor Center. Here, you can find informational exhibits on the history of the canyon and the Navajo people, watch an introductory film, and get current information on park conditions and tours.
Tip: The Visitor Center is also where you can get a list of authorized Navajo guides and tour operators.
On the North Rim Drive, two other notable ancient sites are the Antelope House Ruin and Mummy Cave. The Antelope House is known for its pictographs of antelopes, while Mummy Cave is a large, impressive multi-story dwelling set high in a natural cave.
Tip: These sites are best viewed with binoculars from the overlooks on the North Rim.
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