Navajo National Monument - Activities

Traditional Navajo demonstators in the summer months make rugs and baskets, silver jewelry, and paintings. Behind the visitor center, 3 short trails take visitors to an overlook of the Betatakin (called Talastima by Hopi) cliff dwelling, a view down the canyon, and a look into an aspen forest. Signs along the trails identify native plants and how the Hopi and Navajos use them.

Betatakin/Talastima guided hikes are available every day at 8:30 and 11 A.M. during the summer months; in winter, at 10:00 A.M. from early September to late May. It is a 3-5 hour, 5-mile free ranger-guided tour. Bring drinking water and be prepared for a strenuous trek.

Hikes to Keet Seel/Kawestima, a 17-mile hike, are available. Call to find out more about this fine hike (928-672-2700). The monument is surrounded by Navajo Nation land, which is essentially private property. The campgrounds here are free.