Walnut Canyon National Monument is a stunning geological formation located in Northern Arizona. The canyon, carved by the meandering waters of Walnut Creek, is a deep and narrow canyon that is home to numerous rock formations, including the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. The canyon walls rise from 100 to 500 feet above the canyon floor, providing a dramatic backdrop to the ruins of the Sinagua people. The monument is a beautiful and tranquil area to explore, offering numerous trails and scenic overlooks that provide breathtaking views of the canyon and its ancient dwellings. Visitors to the park can also enjoy the wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, hawks, and eagles. With its unique geology and cultural history, Walnut Canyon National Monument is a must-see destination in the American Southwest.
Hiking into Walnut Canyon National Monument is an incredible experience. The monument offers stunning views of the canyon walls as you descend into the depths of the canyon. The canyon is home to various wildlife, including mule deer, mountain lions, and bald eagles. The canyon is also filled with ancient cliff dwellings that were once home to the Sinagua people. As you explore the canyon, you’ll be able to take in breathtaking views of the canyon walls and Walnut Creek below. The trails are easy to moderate and offer a great opportunity to get out and explore this amazing natural wonder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Walnut Canyon National Monument is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Hiking in Walnut Canyon
Island Trail
The Island Trail leads you back in time and welcomes you into the world of the Native people archeologists call Sinagua. You’ll experience 25 cliff-dwelling rooms along the trail and gaze at others visible across the canyon.
Entry to the Island Trail closes at 4:00 p.m. This provides ample time for visitors to explore the trail before the park closes at 5:00 p.m.
Please bring water, snacks, and sturdy hiking shoes to ensure your safety on the trail. During summer months monsoon thunderstorms are common in the afternoon. By beginning the trail in the morning, you are more likely to avoid these thunderstorms.
In winter the Island Trail may be closed due to snowy or icy conditions.
Backcountry hiking is not allowed to protect fragile archeological and natural features. Hiking is permitted only on designated trails.
Distance: 1-mile round-trip
Time: 1-hour round-trip
Difficulty Strenuous, especially for those not acclimated to 7,000′ elevation. The trail descends 185 vertical feet into the canyon and returns the same way.
Accessibility: The trail is paved, but not accessible to wheelchairs, due to steep canyon terrain and many stairs.
Rim Trail
Stroll along the canyon rim through a mixed juniper and pinion pine forest. Two canyon overlooks provide scenic views of the canyon and cliff dwellings below. Explore a partially rebuilt pithouse and pueblo set back from the canyon rim. On a summer day, visit the demonstration garden that features traditional crops grown by the Sinagua.
Do your part to protect the park by staying on the established trails, not climbing or leaning on dwelling walls, and not removing or disturbing park features. The Rim Trail is for pedestrians only, there are no biking trails at Walnut Canyon.
Visitors must begin the Rim Trail by 4:30 p.m. This ensures that hikers have ample time to explore the trail and to depart before the park closes at 5:00 p.m.
Distance: 0.7 mile round-trip
Time: 30 minutes round-trip
Difficulty: Easy, fairly level.
The first part of the trail, leading to the first canyon overlook, is paved and wheelchair accessible.
