Walnut Canyon Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Phone: 520-526-3367 or 520-526-0571
Fax: 520-527-0246
Open All Year
Overview. More than 800 years ago, Sinagua Indians settled in the shallow caves of Walnut Canyon and built 300 rooms in the shelter of the canyon walls. The community thrived in the canyon for approximately 150 years. Descendents now live among the Hopi Indians in northeastern Arizona, whose earliest villages date from A.D. 1100. Today, the cliff dwellings tucked into the walls of beautiful Walnut Canyon offer us a hands-on history lesson. What to see and do. You can get a close look at the cliff dwellings by following the Island Trail down into the canyon. This self-guided, 0.9-mile trail descends 185 feet. Bear in mind that you must climb that distance on your way out, so allow 45 minutes to an hour to complete the hike. If you have any heart or respiratory problems, Island Trail is not for you. The three-quarter-mile Rim Trail loop leads you to two stabilized surface dwellings and includes two spectacular overlooks. Signs along the way point out the unique mix of vegetation that thrives in Walnut Canyon. In summer, rangers lead off-trail hikes and give interpretive talks. Space is limited on hikes, call for reservations and information. The visitor center houses a small museum of Sinaguan culture, geology and natural history. Picnic tables are located nearby at Walnut Canyon. The monument is located 7.5 miles east of Flagstaff on I-40 then off exit 204 (Walnut Canyon National Monument Exit). The monument is open from 8 AM to 5 PM in September, October, and November; 9 AM to 5 PM, December, January, and February. The area is closed on Christmas Day. Spring hours are 8 AM to 5 PM, March, April, and May. Summer hours are 8 AM to 6 PM, June, July, and August. Seasonal Alert: Be aware that snowstorms may close the trails for a short time. If you are planning a winter, fall, or spring visit, call ahead to be sure the trails are open. Note: Very limited turnarounds are found after exiting I-40 at the Walnut Canyon Exit. Vehicles that are towing, particularly RV's with cars in tow, should unhook their tow vehicle before coming. This situation is worst when the area is congested.
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