Wupatki National Monument

Key Highlight: This is the largest free-standing pueblo in Northern Arizona, according to the National Park Service.

About Wupatki National Monument

Established in 1924, the Wupatki National Monument – part of a collective of Flagstaff Area National Monuments, including Sunset Crater Volcano and Walnut Canyon – is a nature and culture preserve. The ancestors of today's Pueblo communities once inhabited the area during the 1100s, leaving behind their pueblos (villages) when they moved on. Hopi, Zuni, Navajo, and possibly other tribes pass on stories about Wupatki, and members of several Hopi clans return periodically.

What to See and Do

Visitors to the park can see seven different pueblo structures and learn about the early trade and agriculture habits of these ancient communities while enjoying stunning views of the sandstone landscape. As the structures are miles apart, you'll need to drive along the main road in the park to visit each one.

Visitor Center and Highlights

Travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center to gather information about the park and its original inhabitants before exploring. A major highlight for many is the incredible, 104-room Wupatki Pueblo located directly behind the Wupatki Visitor Center. This impressive structure features its own ball court and a natural blow hole.

Travel Tips

Regardless of the time of year, bring plenty of water as there's little shade. You'll need to walk short trails (less than half a mile) from the road to reach the pueblo structures.

Hours

The Wupatki National Monument is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It is located about 30 miles northeast of central Flagstaff.

Tickets

The entrance fee is $25 for a private vehicle and $15 for those entering on foot or bicycle. This fee is valid for seven days and also grants access to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

For more information, visit the Wupatki National Monument page on the National Park Service's website.