Navajo National MonumentAbout 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.
Best Time to Visit Navajo National Monument
Spring through autumn is most comfortable for hiking and viewing cliff dwellings; winter is quiet but can be cold and occasionally icy.
Weather & Climate near Navajo National Monument
Navajo National Monument's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -7°C to 30°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -7° - 4° | -5° | 21 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -5° - 6° | -3° | 22 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -2° - 10° | 1° | 28 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 1° - 15° | 5° | 16 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 6° - 21° | 13° | 13 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 11° - 27° | 19° | 9 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 15° - 30° | 22° | 36 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 14° - 28° | 21° | 41 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 10° - 24° | 17° | 29 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 4° - 17° | 11° | 30 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -2° - 9° | 1° | 29 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -6° - 4° | -4° | 27 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Navajo National Monument
Navajo National Monument is north of Kayenta and near Keams Canyon on AZ‑564. From Flagstaff or Page drive via US‑89 and AZ‑64/Highway 564; signposted access roads lead to the visitor center and trailheads.
Tips for Visiting Navajo National Monument
- Book the guided hikes to the alcoves (Betatakin, Keet Seel, Inscription House) in advance-permits and ranger-led access are required for some areas.
- Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sun protection-the canyon can be hot with limited shade in summer.
- Drive the scenic loop and stop at overlooks early in the day for cooler temperatures and better light on the cliff dwellings.