Visiting Canyon de Chelly Arizona

Visitor Center Operating Hours

The Canyon de Chelly Visitor Center is open every day except Christmas Day, Thanksgiving Day and New Year's Day and opens at 8:00 AM. The Visitor Center and parking lot gates close at 5:00 PM. During inclement weather, the Visitor Center could open later or even close for the day. The Navajo Indian Reservation observes Daylight Savings Time from March through November. The rest of Arizona observes Mountain Standard Time all year.

Canyon de Chelly

No Entrance Fee To Canyon de Chelly

There is no fee to enter the Monument. Every one is permitted to make the scenic North and South Scenic Drives, stop at the various overlook points and even take a self-guided hike down the White House Ruins Trail to enjoy close views of the White House Ruins. Permits and guides are not required.

Free Ranger-led activities are scheduled at specific times from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Visitor Center will provide a schedule of planned activities which could include narrated short hikes. Enjoy educational activities as the Rangers narrate historic aspects of the Monument.

Fee-Based Touring Adventure

Other than hiking White House Trail, no one is permitted to enter into the Canyon without an approved tour guide. Daily scheduled tours leave the Visitor Center at standard times. Custom tours can be arranged directly with private tour operators which include four-wheel vehicles, horseback, hiking, and even overnight camping. Guides must stay with you and your group at all times. Fees vary by type of tour, duration and specific guide.

Canyon de Chelly White House Indian Ruins

Allow Enough Time To Enjoy The Experience

You could easily spend all day enjoying scenic drives along both the north and south sides of the Canyon. There are many lookout points with great views into the canyons. The free-hike to the White House Ruins would be quite an experience.

We suggest staying overnight night at the Holiday Inn in Chinle, Arizona which is just three miles from the entrance to Canyon de Chelly. There is an RV-friendly campground near the entrance. Cottonwood Campground is first-come, first serve.

Questions, Related Topics and Suggested Reading

All information was accurate at the date written. Changes to schedule. fees and guidelines are subject to change without notice. Verify current status before planning your visit.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument
PO Box 588
Chinle, Arizona 86503
(928) 674-5507

Canyon de Chelly Visitor Center
Open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
(928) 674-5500

Climate, Regulations and Guidelines Brochure
Maps, Directions and Driving Distances
Cottonwood Campgrounds
Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation
Education Videos and Anasazi People History