Cool Arizona Places: Walnut Canyon National Monument

Come gaze across the curved canyon walls! Among the remarkable geological cliff formations of the canyon itself, the shapes of the former homes of ancient inhabitants of Walnut Canyon are easily evident. On a hike along the Rim or Island Trails you can imagine what life was like along and within Walnut Canyon while visiting actual pueblos and walking in the steps of those who came before us.

It has been more than 700 years since Walnut Canyon echoed with the words and sounds of a vital pueblo community. The Island Trail leads you back in time, and welcomes you into the world of the people archeologists call Sinagua. You'll see 25 cliff dwelling rooms along the trail; more are visible across the canyon. Spectacular canyon scenery and plantlife. It is a strenuous hike, especially for those not acclimated to 7,000' elevation. The trail descends 185 vertical feet into the canyon, and returns the same way. The trail is paved, but not accessible to wheelchairs, due to steep canyon terrain and many stairs.

This is a self-guided trail along the canyon rim and through ponderosa forest. You'll see 2 canyon overlooks, plus a pithouse and pueblo set back from the canyon rim. This upland area is also where crops were grown. The hike is easy and fairly level. The first part of the trail, leading to the first canyon overlook, is paved and accessible.

Walnut Canyon has been protected since 1904, first as part of the San Francisco Mountain Reserve (later Coconino National Forest). Early caretakers lived in a log cabin on the canyon rim. Walnut Canyon National Monument was established in 1915, one year before the National Park Service.

Walnut Canyon National Monument is located approximately 7.5 miles east of Flagstaff.

November - April 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM MST
May - October 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM MST

Website: http://www.nps.gov/waca/index.htm

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