Visiting Canyon de Chelly Arizona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Visitor Center Operating Hours
Canyon de Chelly National Monument offers one of the Southwest's most unforgettable combinations of towering sandstone cliffs, ancient cliff dwellings and living Navajo culture. Whether you're planning a scenic drive, hiking the White House Ruins Trail or taking a guided tour into the canyon, this visitor guide provides current operating hours, entrance information, visitor center details, tour options, travel tips and everything you need to plan a memorable visit.
Best Time To Visit Canyon de Chelly
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons to visit Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Mild daytime temperatures make sightseeing, scenic drives and hiking considerably more comfortable. Summer offers longer daylight hours but can become quite warm, while winter often provides beautiful lighting and fewer visitors. Morning and late afternoon are excellent times for photography as sunlight highlights the canyon walls and ancient cliff dwellings.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive early for cooler temperatures and better lighting.
- Bring drinking water year-round.
- Allow at least half a day to enjoy both scenic drives.
- Wear sturdy shoes if hiking the White House Ruins Trail.
- Respect Navajo lands and stay on designated routes.
- Confirm tour schedules before arriving.
Best Scenic Overlooks
The North Rim and South Rim scenic drives feature numerous overlooks offering spectacular views into Canyon de Chelly and Canyon del Muerto. Popular viewpoints include Spider Rock Overlook, White House Overlook, Junction Overlook, Antelope House Overlook and Mummy Cave Overlook. Each provides unique perspectives of the canyon's towering sandstone walls, ancient ruins and expansive desert landscape.
Photography At Canyon de Chelly
Photographers will find exceptional opportunities throughout Canyon de Chelly. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for canyon walls and overlooks, while spring and fall typically offer the clearest conditions. A moderate telephoto lens works well for photographing cliff dwellings, while a wide-angle lens captures the monument's dramatic landscapes.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Canyon de Chelly?
No. Admission to Canyon de Chelly National Monument is free.
Can you drive through Canyon de Chelly?
Visitors can drive both the North Rim and South Rim scenic drives, stopping at numerous overlooks along the way.
Can you hike into Canyon de Chelly?
The White House Ruins Trail is the only self-guided trail into the canyon. Other canyon hikes require an authorized Navajo guide.
Do you need a guide?
Guides are required for most canyon-floor tours beyond the White House Ruins Trail.
How long should I plan to visit?
Most visitors spend between four hours and a full day exploring the scenic drives, overlooks and visitor center.
When is the Visitor Center open?
The Visitor Center normally operates daily from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM except on major holidays.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are permitted in certain developed areas but are generally not allowed on trails or inside visitor facilities. Check current National Park Service regulations before visiting.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and excellent conditions for sightseeing and photography.
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
Plan Your Visit Resources
Canyon de Chelly
Maps, Directions and Driving Distances
Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation
Education Videos and Anasazi People History
Canyon de Chelly Campground
Canyon de Chelly Photos & Videos
Canyon de Chelly Visitor Info
The Spectacular Grand Canyon
