A place like no other near Flagstaff in Arizona
Wupatki National Monument is a nature and culture preserve that was established in 1924. It is one of the Flagstaff Area National Monuments, along with Sunset Crater Volcano and Walnut Canyon. Back in the 1100s, the ancestors of today’s pueblo communities used to live in this area and built their villages there. They eventually moved on, but their legacy remains in the form of ancient ruins. The Hopi, Zuni, Navajo, and possibly other tribes have passed down stories about Wupatki. Even today, members of several Hopi clans visit the monument from time to time. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the park’s beautiful red rocks, stopping at the village ruins along the way. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the daily lives of the people who once called Wupatki their home.
Make sure to visit the visitor center first before starting your walking tour. It’s a great place to gather information about the park and its original inhabitants. Don’t forget to bring an ample supply of water, regardless of the season you’re visiting.