Canyon de Chelly National Park

The Canyon de Chelly National Park in Arizona is a living community of Navajo people, and is unique among national parks in that it is entirely Navajo Tribal Trust Land belonging to the Navajo Nation. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the United States, with Ancestral Puebloan Pit Dwellings dating back to the 4th century CE. The White House ruins, set into the sheer walls of the canyon’s 1000-foot cliffs is extremely well preserved and dates back to the 1200’s.

There are 2 long scenic drives around the rim of the canyon. Visitors should set aside a few hours for either of them. The northern drive offers great panoramas, but the southern drive is rather more spectacular and offers a great view of the Spider Rocks. These two red 800-foot towers are where, according to Navajo folk stories, the deity known as the Spider Woman keeps the bones of her victims.

A Navajo Guide must accompany visitors who wish to spend time in the canyon. Hiking, horseback and 4 wheel drive tours are available. The Park offers opportunities for photography, picnicking, rock art viewing, exhibits and interpretative talks.