Arizona's Dramatic Canyon Is A Hidden Paradise With Ancient Cliff Dwellings And Stunning Vistas

Once the home of the Sinagua people, the Walnut Canyon National Monument in Arizona is one of those geological marvels worthy of being added to your bucket list. This dramatic canyon carved by the wind and water offers stunning views of striking limestone cliffs, ancient Native American ruins, and scenic hiking trails. It's the perfect place for exploring Arizona's varied landscape, conveniently located just 9 miles to the east from the city of Flagstaff, which is somehow one of the snowiest cities in America.

Walnut Canyon is indeed a great destination for history buffs. However, nature lovers are also in for a treat. The lush natural environment surrounding the canyon provides a safe haven for species like elks and turkey vultures, as well as plant species such as ponderosa pines and desert cacti. Add two trails leading to some of the most dramatic canyon views you'll ever experience, and you really have a formula for a fantastic outdoor adventure.

The closest airport to the canyon is the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, about 13 minutes away. From there, you need to drive towards Albuquerque on the Interstate 40 and then head south while taking Exit 204. You will then come into this National Monument at the end of the road. If you want to explore the natural wonders within this region of Arizona, Sedona, the world's "most mindful" escape, lies just an hour away.

Walnut Canyon is home to two different hiking trails. One of these is the Island Trail, a 1-mile, challenging loop hike. This hike requires you to climb hundreds of stairs at 7,000 feet of elevation. It is also a very steep route, as you will descend for about 185 feet, which you then need to climb up on your way back. The Island Trail also takes you directly towards the cliffs' 25 accessible dwellings, where the Sinagua people used to live. These rooms will also amaze you with breathtaking views of the canyon. The overall round-trip takes about an hour to complete. It closes at 4 p.m., so watch the time when attempting this hike.

The Rim Trail, on the other hand, offers a much easier hiking route. This 30-minute loop trail — surrounded by a lush forested area — leads to more canyon views, taking visitors to an overlook, a Sinagua pithouse, and a reconstructed pueblo. Summer gardening demonstrations are held along this trail, and it is also a pet-friendly route. Backcountry hiking is not permitted in the canyon to help preserve the ancient ruins, and visitors should stay on the paved roads at all times. Be sure to always show respect and care towards the canyon, cliff dwellings, and the surrounding natural environment.

While hiking Walnut Canyon's two trails to marvel at its natural beauty might be what draws visitors, the national monument has plenty more to offer its guests. For instance, it is open year-round, making it possible to enjoy this area's peace and quiet even during the winter months. You can also enjoy a beautiful family picnic, partake in some nature and landscape photography at the overlooks, or enjoy watching the local white-nosed coati, coyotes, and black bears, among other species. 

The Monument's Visitor Center has a nice viewpoint and patio overlooking the canyon. It also houses a shop, several displays, a museum, and film screenings. The center offers a Junior Ranger program where children can explore and learn about the canyon's ecology and geology. At the end of the program, they will earn a cool badge to show off to their friends.

If you're feeling adventurous, another great destination near Flagstaff worthy of exploring is the Wupatki National Monument, where towering red rock ruins and vast desert views unveil an archeological wonder, just over 30 minutes to the north. Or you can just enjoy the 9-mile scenic Walnut Canyon Desert drive if you prefer to see the sights from your car.