Canyon de Chelly: History That Echoes Through the Canyons

Uplifting lands throughout the ages were gently carved and shaped by rushing streams, leaving behind the astonishing, colorful cliffs and walls of Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Arizona. The abundance of rich soil, flora, fauna, and natural water resources within the canyon attracted early settlers thousands of years ago. Ancient Pueblo, also known as the Anasazi, came here to raise both crops and families, and these peoples constructed pit houses and alcove homes to take advantage of the canyon's natural protection. In the mid-14th century, the Pueblo sought other lands after the regions soil's fertility declined, likely due to overuse.

However, descendants of the Pueblo known as the Hopi, later migrated into theses canyons once again to plant corn and peaches, and they settled atop the mesa while the Navajo nestled in within the valleys of the four sacred mountains. These lands rest in what is today known as the Navajo Nation, and approximately 40 families live here year round, and their lifestyle indicates that to this day they still hold many of their native traditions dear.

The authorization of Canyon de Chelly as a National Monument came about under the leadership of President Herbert Hoover in 1931 with the hope of preserving nearly 4000 years of archeological resources that the park holds. Today, the Navajo manage and operate these lands in cooperation with the United States NPS, and visitors can view the hogans, farms, and livestock of the Navajo while traversing the Canyon Rim scenic drives.

Because most tours of the canyon typically require permits and the accompaniment of a Navajo guide, visitors will learn much about the history of Canyon de Chelly National Monument from an expert. Many tours and permits are free, with exception to horseback and vehicle tours, which incur surcharges. Summertime is the busiest season within the park, and ranger-led activities and hikes are plentiful from Memorial through Labor Day.

Activities and Attractions at Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Beyond the amazing vistas, the typically temperate climate, and the rich history of this special place, Canyon de Chelly National Monument boasts some of Arizona's finest examples of native rock art. Because these works are considered sacred to the Navajo who live here, the rock art sites at Canyon de Chelly may only be accessed with a Navajo guide and an all-terrain vehicle. Visitors that sign up for a monument tour will traverse the bottom of the canyon and enjoy remarkable photography opportunities, so bring plenty of film.

Guided horseback tours by the hour are also very popular, and overnight expeditions are available seasonally. Permits are necessary, but they are free. Hiking the canyon also requires a permit and an authorized guide. The only exception to this in-park rule is for the self-guided 6-mile hike from the Visitor's Center to the White House Ruin Overlook. About 2 hours round trip, bring plenty of water and a picnic lunch because there are no eating establishments in the general vicinity of Canyon de Chelly.

Scenic drives of the North Rim and the South Rim of the canyon certainly provide the most rewarding and memorable vistas of the region. Two hours are recommended to explore each side of the rim if one desires to enjoy each scenic overlook to its fullest. Along the North Rim, there are three overlooks, and the South Rim Drive at Canyon de Chelly boasts seven. Keep in mind, cars must remain on the paved road at all times!

Nearby attractions to Canyon de Chelly include the magnificent Petrified Forest National Park and the glorious Painted Dessert. Just two hours from the monument, this side trip is well worth the extra effort, and visitors can explore these lands where dinosaurs roamed amid these same preserved trees 225 million years ago.

Lodges at Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Lodging in Canyon de Chelly National Monument is limited to the Sacred Canyon Lodge, a historic trading post from 1896 that has been transformed into a comfortable lodge. Enjoy Native American dishes, continental cuisine, and comfortable accommodations near some of the most remarkable scenery within the canyon. As the only lodging in Canyon de Chelly National Monument, early reservations are advisable.

Those seeking in-town lodging near Canyon de Chelly National Monument will find great comfort at the cozy Canyon de Chelly Inn. Located near the mouth of the canyon in Chinle, Arizona, Canyon De Chelly Inn is the only lodge nearby with a hot tub, indoor pool, sauna, and Wi-Fi. This is one of the only Canyon de Chelly National Monument lodges that offer a variety of tours, activities, and educational opportunities in addition to great food and comfortable accommodations, making it ideal for large groups and even the most discerning travelers.