Navajo National Monument

Navajo National Monument protects well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings set into high sandstone cliffs in northeastern Arizona. The monument preserves archaeological sites and provides interpretation of prehistoric canyon settlements.

Primary features include large, multi-room cliff houses built into alcoves and accessible via ranger-led tours; trails and overlooks allow views of the dwellings and canyon landscapes. The monument emphasizes archaeological conservation and education, with exhibits at a visitor centre.

The cliff dwellings were constructed and occupied by Ancestral Puebloan communities during the late prehistoric period, with the sites abandoned before extensive historic contact. The monument was established to safeguard these fragile archaeological resources and to permit careful study and public interpretation.

Navajo National Monument lies on the high Colorado Plateau in northeastern Arizona; the sites occupy sandstone canyons and are reached from nearby towns on regional roads, with the visitor centre providing orientation and tour information.

• Guided access requirement: Ranger-led guided walks are required for access to at least some cliff dwellings; visitors should check park schedules and permit requirements in advance.
• Date of occupation: The cliff dwellings were occupied by Ancestral Puebloan people in the late prehistoric period, with construction and use concentrated around the 13th century.

What to See #

• Betatakin: Betatakin cliff dwelling is a large, multi-room Ancestral Puebloan cliff house accessible on ranger-led tours that interpret the site's architecture and occupation history.
• Inscription House: Inscription House is another cliff dwelling preserved within the monument; it is less visited and provides additional evidence of Ancestral Puebloan habitation in the canyons.