Canyon de Chelly stands as a remarkable natural wonder, featuring an awe-inspiring terrain adorned with significant historical Navajo locations, all nestled between striking red sandstone cliffs and lush woodlands.

Nestled within the Navajo Tribal Lands, the breathtaking Canyon de Chelly National Monument spans more than 80,000 acres in northwestern Arizona. Travel to this location via South Rim Drive—a picturesque route that meanders for about 15 miles through the southern part of the national monument—where seven overlooks provide stunning panoramic vistas. From these vantage points, you can gaze down nearly a thousand feet into the canyon depths!

Stop off at Spider Rock Overlook, offering vistas of Spider Rock with its towering 750-foot pinnacles deeply rooted in Native American lore. According to tribal tales, this site serves as the abode of theSpider Woman, believed to have instructed the Navajos on weaving techniques and vigilantly guarding these holy grounds for more than three centuries. Visitors wishing to explore the canyon’s winding paths hemmed by ancient red sandstone walls—formed through millions of years of erosion from flowing rivers—are obligated to engage a certified indigenous guide.
From Face Rock Overlook—a breathtaking vantage point—one can step outside their car to admire the dramatic stone sculptures and sweeping contours of the gorge below, where distant trekkers resemble tiny insects. Informational stations provide helpful maps pointing out hidden landmarks among the cliff faces, whilst afar looms Black Rock, an extinct volcanic remnant sculpted by natural forces into verdant terrain.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument Indian Route 7

Chinle, AZ 86503

+1 928 674 5500

https://www.nps.gov/index.htm