More than 5,000 years ago, Ancestral Puebloans lived in the canyons at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, growing crops with the help of the natural water sources. They built homes in alcoves high on the sheer cliffs, taking advantage of the safety and shade. When you visit the monument today, you can see the remarkable remains of these cliff dwellings. The entire park is owned by the Navajo Nation and managed in partnership with the National Park Service. This unique arrangement gives you the opportunity to tour the canyon with a Navajo guide or a park ranger. Access is limited to protect the land and the families who live in the canyon, but a single self-guided hiking trail and two scenic drives are open to everyone.
RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Much of the land around Canyon de Chelly National Monument is part of the Navajo Nation, which means that camping opportunities are few and far between. Most options are rustic, so an RV is the perfect way to enjoy a comfortable stay while you explore the stunning Arizona landscape. If you don't have an RV, a rental from RVshare is a great alternative. Choose one near you or near Canyon de Chelly to find the perfect option for your crew.
RV Rentals Near Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Things To Do Near Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Access to Canyon de Chelly National Monument is highly controlled; a single hike and two driving routes are open to the public. If you want to venture farther into the canyon, you must book a tour with one of the Navajo Nation's approved operators. These tours are an exciting way to discover the rich history and culture of the region in the company of a Navajo guide. Choose from hiking, Jeep, camping, and horseback tours.
Hiking Trails
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White House Trail
The White House Trail is the only trail that's open to unaccompanied hikers in Canyon de Chelly National Monument. It takes you from the rim and travels 600 feet down to the canyon floor, offering beautiful views as you navigate the switchbacks. At the end, you can see the monument's most famous site: the White House Ruins. The remains of an ancient structure sit on the floor, and another is located in an alcove high above your head. Bring your camera — the combination of sheer, red-rock walls and well-preserved dwellings make for fantastic photos.
Location
White House Overlook
Length
2.7 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Grandmother’s Trail
Grandmother’s Trail is named after Spider Grandmother, a sacred figure in the Navajo creation story. This trail, which is only accessible on a guided hike with an approved tour operator, takes you to the spectacular Spider Rock. Along the way, you can see ancient handholds that were dug into the sandstone walls thousands of years ago.
Location
Canyon de Chelly
Length
8 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Tunnel Trail
The Tunnel Trail is another hike that you can take with one of the approved Navajo-owned tour companies. The gently sloping path takes you deep into the canyon, offering views of the towering canyon walls, cliff dwellings, and rock art. As you walk, you'll also have the opportunity to see other ruins in the canyon, including the Junction Ruins and First Ruins.
Location
Welcome Center
Length
Varies
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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North Rim Drive
North Rim Drive runs along the northern side of Canyon de Chelly National Monument, offering spectacular views. As you drive, make sure to stop at the three overlook points to take in the landscape. This road is paved and easy to navigate in an RV though parking can be limited during busy periods.
Location
Welcome Center
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South Rim Drive
Like the northern route, South Rim Drive is a paved road with plenty of opportunities to get out of the car and check out the view. If you only have time for one drive, this is the one to do — it takes you past seven different overlooks, offering a wider range of perspectives. The most famous spot is the White House Overlook, which gives you a view of the iconic White House Ruins.
Location
Welcome Center
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Hope Arch
The Hope Arch is a natural sandstone arch that rises from the desert west of Chinle, about 10 miles from Canyon de Chelly National Monument. The access road can be bumpy, but it's usually passable for RVs and passenger vehicles. From the parking area, it's an easy hike up a mesa to the arch itself.
Location
Rte. 102-3, Chinle, AZ 86503
Museums
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Thunderbird Lodge Restaurant
Located a short drive from the Welcome Center at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, the Thunderbird Lodge Restaurant is a convenient spot to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Try a Navajo taco served on frybread or opt for classic comfort-food meals, including burgers and grilled cheese.
Location
Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
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Garcia's Restaurant
Indulge in all of your favorite Mexican foods at Garcia's Restaurant, which is known for its fresh ingredients and big portions. Come hungry; you'll need an appetite to start with a frybread appetizer and end with one of the restaurant's excellent desserts.
Location
Bureau of Indian Affairs Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
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Pizza Edge
Whether you're traveling with kids or as a couple, stop in at Pizza Edge - one of the best pizza joints near Canyon de Chelly. Take it to go or dine in and enjoy the restaurant's striking pink booths.
Location
Bashas Shopping Center 191, US-191, Chinle, AZ 86503
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Thunderbird Lodge Trading Post
Specializing in Native American art, crafts, and jewelry, the Thunderbird Lodge Trading Post is a fun place to browse after your visit to the canyon. If you're interested in history, the shop also offers educational books and videos.
Location
Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
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Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise
Pick up a traditional Native American blanket at Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise. Known for its unique selection of jewelry, home decor, and souvenirs, this is a popular stop for visitors to Canyon de Chelly.
Location
Highway 191 & Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
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Bashas' Diné
Stock up for your camping trip at Bashas' Diné, one of the biggest grocery stores near Canyon de Chelly. The store is clean, friendly, and offers everything you need for RV or campfire cooking.
Location
HWY 191 Hwy Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
How To Get To Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Canyon de Chelly National Monument is located in the northeastern corner of Arizona. The easiest way to get there is to take AZ-191 north from I-40 or south from AZ-60. When you get to Chinle, take Highway Route 7 east until you reach the park.
Address
Route 7, Chinle, AZ 86503
Fee: Entry Fee (per person)
There is no entry fee.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument offers a peek at the extraordinary culture and sophisticated buildings of Ancestral Puebloans. Here, you can explore a landscape that's been occupied for more than 5,000 years and discover the rich traditions that have been passed down through the generations. With an RV, it's easy to explore the park and create a comfortable home base year-round.
