Things To Do Near Hovenweep National Monument
Bring sturdy shoes and a hat on your trip to Hovenweep National Monument; most of the ruins require you to hike. The trails, with the exception of the Square Tower Group paths, are located down bumpy roads. Ask in the visitor center about road conditions before attempting the drive. A small selection of restaurants and shopping options sit within an hour's drive of the park, making a great stop on your way to or from the ruins.
Hiking Trails
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Little Ruin Rim Trail Loop
If you don't have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, the most convenient hiking trail in Hovenweep National Monument is the Little Ruin Rim Trail Loop. The path starts at the visitor center and travels through the Square Tower Group along the rim of Little Ruin Canyon. On the 1.5-mile route, you'll see the famous Hovenweep Castle, the Square Tower, Hovenweep House, and more. The views are excellent, but the shade is limited, so pack plenty of water.
Location
Visitor Center
Length
1.5 miles round-trip
Intensity
Easy to Moderate
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Cutthroat Castle Trail
The Cutthroat Castle Trail takes you to the Cutthroat Castle structure, which is unique in that it features an incorporated kiva rather than a separate one. The trail starts out in a narrow opening through a field of boulders before crossing an open plane and crossing a section of slickrock. As you hike, look west to see the rock formations of the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. If you prefer a shorter hike, take the 0.14-mile trail to Cutthroat Castle from the lower trailhead.
Location
Upper trailhead
Length
1.34 miles round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Horseshoe and Hackberry Trail
Explore a variety of desert environments on the Horseshoe and Hackberry Trail. From the trailhead, you'll climb up to the top of the mesa before crossing slickrock and walking through a wash. This route offers beautiful views of the canyon as it takes you to the beautiful Horseshoe House and on to the Hackberry ruin.
Location
Horseshoe and Hackberry parking area
Length
1.44 miles round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Square Tower Group
If you're interested in seeing the ruins at Hovenweep but you don't have time for a long hike, the Square Tower Group is your best bet. This is the only group that you can visit via a paved road; you will need to walk to the overlooks. Here, you can see almost 30 different structures scattered in and around Little Ruin Canyon. Among the most remarkable is the Square Tower itself, which stands three stories tall. For a fast visit, park at the visitor center, and take the paved path out to the Stronghold House overlook. It's about 300 yards one way and is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. From there, you can continue around the unpaved Rim Trail to see more of the ruins.
Location
Visitor Center
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Holly Group
Holly Group is another of the most accessible collections of ruins in Hovenweep National Monument. You'll need a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle to drive the 4 miles from the visitor center; the National Park Service recommends that you check in with the rangers in the visitor center to find out about road conditions as they can change rapidly. From the parking area, a 0.22-mile path takes you around the ruins. Keep an eye out for the Tilted Tower and the Holly Tower, which is built on a boulder inside Keeley Canyon. This is a great spot to see the unique architecture of the Hovenweep structures — if you look closely, you can see where Ancestral Puebloan builders created steps and space for scaffolding.
Location
Holly parking area
Museums
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Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
Located about 45 miles from Hovenweep National Monument, the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum offers an introduction to the Ancestral Pueblo people. Check out the large collection of ancient pottery, walk through a recreated village, and climb down into a kiva that's more than 1,000 years old.
Location
660 W. 400 N., Blanding, UT 84511
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The Dinosaur Museum
If you're passing through Blanding, take an hour to explore The Dinosaur Museum. Dedicated entirely to dinosaurs, this is a popular stop for kids and adults. Examine fossils from around the world; make a point to find the fossilized dinosaur skin and eggs. The museum also features a selection of skeletons and artistic statues to help you imagine what the dinosaurs looked like as they wandered around the local area.
Location
754 S. 200 W., Blanding, UT 84511
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Cow Canyon Trading Post
You'll know Cow Canyon Trading Post immediately by the vintage car that's parked out front. Inside, shop for locally made art and souvenirs. If you need to stretch your legs, it's worth walking around outside to check out the enormous red-rock formations that rise across the street.
Location
163 Mission Road, Bluff, UT 84512
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Thin Bear Indian Arts
Pick up a piece of locally made Native American artwork at Thin Bear Indian Arts. Located between Hovenweep National Monument and Blanding, this shop offers everything from pottery to turquoise jewelry.
Location
1944 S. Main St., Blanding, UT 84511
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Twin Rocks Café
Enjoy a big salad with a side of fry bread at Twin Rocks Café, which serves classic diner foods with a view of the red rocks. Try the Navajo tacos, and end your meal with the prickly pear panna cotta.
Location
913 E. Navajo Twins Dr., Bluff, UT 84512
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Pop's Burritos
Pop's Burritos is a legend in Blanding; this locally owned build-your-own burrito joint is known for its huge portions and delicious flavors. Choose from a range of toppings to create a burrito, bowl, or salad.
Location
148 S. Main St., Blanding, UT 84511