BOOK YOUR STAY  |   EXPLORE

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Walnut Canyon National Monument preserves some of the Southwest’s earliest history. Located 10 miles Southeast of Flagstaff, these incredible cliff dwellings are shockingly intact and preserved by the park service for anyone to enjoy. The canyon surrounding them in 400 ft. deep and was created by Walnut Creek. This small water source eventually flows into the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. The upper layer of this unique canyon is Kaibab limestone which contains cliff dwellings scattered around this ancient rock. Used by the Sinagua cave dwellers in the 12th and 13th centuries, this site has preserved their homes and gives visitors an up-close look at the past. There are two main trails you can go around the monument. First is the Rim Trail. This trail, as it sounds, goes along the rim for .7 miles and passes a partially rebuild pueblo and pit house. There is no further altitude change for this one so if you are still getting used to the higher elevation this would be a good place to start. The second trail is the Island Trail. This one is a loop into the canyon that does change elevation. It is a mile long and there are 273 steps to reach the top again. But if you feel up to it, you will pass over 25 cliff dwellings. Some in almost their entirety. But as a precaution, the National Park Services advises that hikers do not fully enter the cliff dwellings. They ask that visitors don’t enter the marked cliff dwellings to help preserve the dwellings for this and future generations. To protect wildlife, it’s always best to observe wild animals from a distance.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Visitor hours are 9-5 year-round. Closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day. The park closes at 1:00 on Thanksgiving Day.

Entrance Fee:
  • $25 vehicle fee America the Beautiful, Senior Pass and Access Passes are accepted

    • Things To Keep In Mind:
  • Leashed pets are allowed on the Rim Trail, but not inside the visitor center or on the Island Trail.
  • The closest lodging or camping is in Flagstaff
  • Don’t feed the animals!
  • Please do not take anything be it animals, plants, rocks, etc. This is a place for everyone to be able to enjoy the cliff dwellings in their natural environment.

    • Special Offers:
    Ledge Hikes: These are offered on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor day, and the schedule can be found on their website at Interpretive Programs - Walnut Canyon National Monument (U.S. National Park Service). This adventure starts at the Visitor Center and visits numerous cliff dwellings while exploring off-trail. The hike is approximately 2 miles long and takes 4 hours. Water and hiking shoes are required.  Must be in good physical condition and not be afraid of heights.

    Ranger Cabin Hike: The schedule for these walks can also be found on our website Interpretive Programs - Walnut Canyon National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

    (Reservations required for both. Please contact 928-526-3367)

    BOOK YOUR STAY NOW

    More Attractions Near Flagstaff

    Flag Tag AZ

    Grab a high-tech vest and laser tag gun and explore FlagTagAZ’s multi-level, black-lit, interactive laser tag arena. Or channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing. With arcade games and a pizza cafe, FlagTagAZ specializes in serving your needs for food and fun. They lo
    Grab a high-tech vest and laser tag gun and explore FlagTagAZ’s multi-level, black-lit, interactive laser tag arena. Or channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing. With arcade games and a pizza cafe, FlagTagAZ specializes in serving your needs for food and fun. They love to host families, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, non-profit, and corporate groups. Knife throwing at FlagTagAZ is an exciting new way to safely test your object flinging abilities. You can also enjoy a drink as they are now serving beer, wine, and mead. Located on the west side of Flagstaff with plenty of parking available for cars or even tour buses. The spacious facility can host groups of up to 150 people.
    Learn More

    Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

    Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Beariz
    Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Bearizona. In the drive thru, you will take your own vehicle or our Wild Ride Bus through pristine Natural habitats for many North American Species. In these free roaming areas You will see wolves, bears, bison, and many other large species that can come right up to your car. Where the drive thru ends Fort Bearizona begins. Park your car and come on in. This is where you will find our smaller animals like river otters and bobcats. The barnyard, which is our petting zoo and fun for all ages. The Raptor Free Flight program, where birds of prey fly right over your head. All Shows which include animal meet-n-greets and training presentations. Big Bear Gift shop, over 8,000 sq feet of treasures and also housing Arizona’s largest model train, a historically accurate replica of the railroad from Williams depot to the grand canyon. For dining options we have the Bearizona Grill for a quick snack or our themed Canyonlands restaurant where you can sit and have a hot meal and a cold beverage overlooking our remarkable jaguar enclosure. You can Hop on our website for all current show times and we hope you can come visit us soon. Not only will you learn about lots of Awesome North American animals but you will also have an amazing time while your doing it.
    Learn More

    Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

    Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Leaving from Flagstaff, our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous

    Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Leaving from Flagstaff, our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where you can peer off the edge at the mighty Colorado River!

    Learn More
    9.9

    Cabins & Yurts At AZ Nordic Village

    Stay in a yurt or cabin at the AZ Nordic Village, a premier outdoor recreation destination just north of Flagstaff. Perfectly situated in the cool pine and aspen forests at 8,000 ft of elevation between Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park, the Village offers rustic cabin and yurt rent
    Stay in a yurt or cabin at the AZ Nordic Village, a premier outdoor recreation destination just north of Flagstaff. Perfectly situated in the cool pine and aspen forests at 8,000 ft of elevation between Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park, the Village offers rustic cabin and yurt rentals year-round, and summer campsites that are RV-friendly. Frontcountry yurts and cabins are available for those seeking easy access, and five backcountry yurts offer solitude and natural settings with more comforts than a typical backpacking adventure. Many miles of hiking and biking trails leave right from the Village, and there are numerous other activities nearby, including the Lava River Cave, Red Mountain, Arizona Snowbowl, the Arizona National Scenic Trail, and many other hiking and biking trails.

    In the winter season, the Arizona Nordic Village hosts a groomed trail system for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and fatbiking. Over 20 miles of trails offer opportunities for everybody to have a winter adventure!
    Learn More

    Arizona Private Tours

    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.
    Learn More
    10

    Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

    Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess

    Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.

    Learn More
    9.9

    Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours

    Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will
    Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will discuss with you your experience and skill level in order to decide which hiking trails would be the best fit for you. Is there a specific trail you have been dying to hike? Great! Our professional guides are here to make sure you have the best experience possible. Because our hiking tours are completely private, your hiking experience is personalized and can be as long or as short as you want. On our Grand Canyon hiking tours, you can opt for a full day of hiking, or we can split the day between hiking and sightseeing. You’ll experience the canyon like never before. When you walk down the canyon, you are walking through geologic time. See the rock layers, and learn about the canyon’s millions of years of geologic history. Enjoy picture-perfect viewpoints along the trail and capture every breathtaking moment.
    Learn More
    10

    Out Of Africa Wildlife Park - Camp Verde, AZ

    Come see Tiger Splash show performed daily. Watch Bengal tigers in natural play as they "hunt" their caretakers. Open Monday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Just 40 minutes from Sedona.
    Learn More

    Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ

    Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation
    Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.
    Learn More
    9

    Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

    Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring th

    Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring the entire family! There are 5 adult courses and 1 junior course with obstacles ranging from tarzan ropes, to wobbly bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets, ziplines, and even an aerial surf board!

    Come Play in the Trees and explore the outdoors like you never have before!

    To see our availability or book a reservation, check out www.flagstaffextreme.com or give us a call at 888-259-0125!

    (See our website for age and height restrictions)

    Learn More
    9.5

    IMAX Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center

    Located 1 mile from the National Park South Rim Entrance. Go beyond the rim in the spectacular IMAX adventure film shown on a 6-story high screen. The Visitor Center also includes Pink Jeep Tours, Pizza Hut Express and the world famous National Geographic Store.
    Learn More

    Lowell Observatory

    A privately owned astronomical research institution located in Flagstaff, Arizona. Best known for the discovery of Pluto. Each year, about 70,000 people visit the Observatory to learn about astronomy. Open daily.
    Learn More

    Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival

    The mission of the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, affectionately known as FlagShakes, is to faithfully portray classics of the Renaissance, as well as produce other actor-driven plays. Our performances and educational outreach enlighten our audiences and revitalize empathy. Flagstaff Shak
    The mission of the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, affectionately known as FlagShakes, is to faithfully portray classics of the Renaissance, as well as produce other actor-driven plays. Our performances and educational outreach enlighten our audiences and revitalize empathy. Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival is dedicated to offering exciting artistic opportunities and experience for residents of northern Arizona and visitors from around the world.
    Learn More

    Rock Climbing & Indoor Bouldering Gym

    Flagstaff Climbing Center is located in historic downtown Flagstaff. The center features over 6500 square feet of widely varied climbing terrain to suit all abilities and climbing styles. Guides are available to hire for outdoor climbing trips. Choose from several areas around Northern Ari
    Flagstaff Climbing Center is located in historic downtown Flagstaff. The center features over 6500 square feet of widely varied climbing terrain to suit all abilities and climbing styles. Guides are available to hire for outdoor climbing trips. Choose from several areas around Northern Arizona including Sedona.
    Learn More

    Riordan Mansion State Park

    Built in 1904 for two Riordan families, Riordan Mansion is an impressive example of gracious living and Arts and Crafts style architecture. Forty rooms, over 13,000 sq ft. Check the website for tour info and pricing.
    Learn More

    Fun Flagstaff History Segway Tour

    Flagstaff is best known as the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks mountain range and the Grand Canyon, but it’s worth spending some time exploring the historic town too. On this tour, discover Flagstaff’s small-town charms on a guided tour and choose from a variety of options. Join a wa

    Flagstaff is best known as the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks mountain range and the Grand Canyon, but it’s worth spending some time exploring the historic town too. On this tour, discover Flagstaff’s small-town charms on a guided tour and choose from a variety of options. Join a walking tour and enjoy extra time to browse the shops and take photos; explore further on a leisurely bike tour; or zip between the sights on a Segway.

  • Explore Flagstaff by bike, Segway, or on foot
  • Plenty of stops to admire the sights and take photos
  • Receive tips on what to see and do in Flagstaff from a local guide
  • Choice of tour departure times throughout the day
    • Learn More

    Flagstaff Area National Monuments

    Visit all three Flagstaff Area National Monuments: Walnut Canyon National Monument (7.5 miles), Sunset Crater Volcano (14 miles) and Wupatki National Monument (32 miles) are all nearby.
    Learn More

    The Arboretum

    Open to the public from May through October, The Arboretum at Flagstaff is home to 2,500 species of plants in greenhouses, gardens, and natural habitats. The Arboretum offers guided tours, school programs, and other events
    Learn More

    Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour

    Once a part of the Wild Wild West, Flagstaff has a rich history of railroad expansion which brought about a number of colorful characters to the region. Discover the history of this desert city on a guided tour of downtown and learn about the city’s rapid growth during the 1800s. Listen

    Once a part of the Wild Wild West, Flagstaff has a rich history of railroad expansion which brought about a number of colorful characters to the region. Discover the history of this desert city on a guided tour of downtown and learn about the city’s rapid growth during the 1800s. Listen to ghostly tales of past residents as you follow your guide to several haunted locations.

  • Hunt for ghosts as you explore downtown Flagstaff
  • Listen to eerie tales of colorful western characters
  • A central meeting point makes for a seamless experience
  • A small group means more attention from your guide
    • Learn More

    Museum of Northern Arizona

    Located just three miles north of Flagstaff, MNA features exhibits relating to anthropology, biology, geology, and fine art. The Museum has permanent and changing exhibits. Open daily for self-guided tours.
    Learn More

    Pioneer Museum

    Located in the historic Coconino County Hospital for the Indigent. Exhibits reflect Flagstaff and northern Arizona history, as well as ranching, logging, and transportation. Open Mon.–Sat. for self-guided tours.
    Learn More

    Haunted Downtown Flagstaff Segway Tour

    Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so

    Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so you don’t miss a word your guide says. Plus, choose from multiple times to easily fit this tour into your schedule.

  • Discover the haunted history of Flagstaff, Arizona
  • Opt to explore the local streets on foot, by bike, or via Segway
  • Headset provided, so you can hear your guide clearly
  • Choose from multiple times to best suit your schedule
    • Learn More

    Hopi Cultural and Archaeological Day Trip from Flagstaff

    This fascinating journey will take you into the heart of Hopi country. Visit the oldest continuously occupied villages in the United States on our fascinating, in-depth tour into the heart of Hopi lands. Tour departs from Sedona and Flagstaff.
    Learn More

    In the Spotlight

    Flag Tag AZ
    Flag Tag AZ »
    Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
    Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course »
    Wildland Trekking
    Wildland Trekking »
    Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ
    Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ »

    RELATED TRIP IDEAS

    Buffalo Park
    Buffalo Park »
    Must-Do Historical Hiking Trails
    Must-Do Historical Hiking Trails »
    Experience Flagstaff Art, Theater & Culture
    Experience Flagstaff Art, Theater & Culture »
    Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona
    Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona »
    Walk Amongst Real Dinosaur Tracks
    Walk Amongst Real Dinosaur Tracks »
    Unbelievable Day Trips from Flagstaff
    Unbelievable Day Trips from Flagstaff »
    Visit Grand Falls
    Visit Grand Falls »
    How to Avoid Setting the Forest on Fire
    How to Avoid Setting the Forest on Fire »
    Visit Sunset Crater
    Visit Sunset Crater »
    Explore Lava Tube Cave
    Explore Lava Tube Cave »

    MORE ATTRACTIONS FROM FLAGSTAFF

    OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS WORTH SEEING

    Visit Grand Falls

    Visit Grand Falls

    Hike the Highest Peak in Arizona

    Hike the Highest Peak in Arizona

    Explore Lava Tube Cave

    Explore Lava Tube Cave

    Walk Amongst Real Dinosaur Tracks

    Walk Amongst Real Dinosaur Tracks