Walnut Canyon National Monument in Pictures
Walnut Canyon National Monument near Flagstaff, Arizona was carved out by Walnut Creek over millions of years. This site not only protects a unique ecosystem, but also a remarkable history of ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and native culture. While the canyon only appears to have been inhabited from about 1100 to 1250, the homes and structures left behind are many and varied.
Guests can walk along the Island Trail from the Visitor Center to explore these ancient cliff dwellings but will have to traverse a strenuous 736 stairs to do so.
You can also take an easy stroll around the Rim Trail which gives you views of the Canyon and dwellings from the top of the canyon. It offers great views of the canyon.
If you enjoy stargazing, Walnut Canyon and its Flagstaff NPS neighbors have been designated as International Dark Sky Parks by the IDA. This means that Walnut Canyon is a prime spot for viewing, with very little light pollution obstructing the views.
Things to see and do
- Hike down to the dwellings via the Island Trail
- Hike around the Rim Trail for fantastic views of the canyon and cliff dwellings
- Enjoy a picnic
- View local birds and wildlife in the area
- Stargaze at night
- Stop in to the Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s history
- Do a little shopping at the Western National Parks Association Store
Walnut Canyon Hours
Walnut Canyon is typically open from 9 am until 4:30 pm. The park is closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day.
Directions to Walnut Canyon National Monument
Walnut Canyon is very easy to get to and is just 7.5 miles east of Flagstaff along I-40. Take exit 240 and head south. The park and visitor center are about 3 miles down this road.
Walnut Canyon National Monument Stats
Date created: 1915
Annual Visitors: 107,422 in 2020
Fun Fact: Walnut Canyon is managed along with nearby Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments. Together they make up the Flagstaff Area National Monuments and protect more than 40,000 acres and an impressive 3,000 archeological sites.
Visitor Centers and Passport Stamps
Be sure to stop into the visitor center for a map and a passport stamp. You can also do some shopping at the WNPA store to help support our parks.
Other Nearby Parks
Other nearby National Park sites include Tuzigoot National Monument, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Tonto National Monument, Wupatki National Monument, Grand Canyon National Park, and Petrified Forest National Park.
Be sure to check out all of Arizona's National Parks here.
Walnut Canyon is small but impressive. Have you ever visited Walnut Canyon National Monument?
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