Canyon de Chelly Tourist and Travel Information:
A trip to Canyon de Chelly will fill you with wonder and exhilaration at the historical artifacts and rock formations that up until now stand strong against time and age. Amazingly preserved and even inhabited, it remains, up until now, the home of the Navajo people. It is one of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Arizona.
How to Get to Canyon de Chelly:
Getting there is easy. There are two international airports that service Phoenix and Albuquerqe, which are 5 and 4 hours away, respectively. You can also fly in through Flagstaff and Farmington municipal airports. The nearest airport, however, is the one at Gallup, which is only a half hour’s ride at Highway 191 North from the canyon. Canyon de Chelly is near Chinle, Arizona, so if you plan to travel by car, take Route 191 and drive 3 miles to reach the visitor center. If you’re coming from Flagstaff, take I-40 East and continue to Highway 191 North. There are also Amtrak trains and Greyhounds at Flagstaff and Gallup.
Things To Do:
There are two top activities at Canyon de Chelly: canyon driving and hiking. To go canyon driving, you will need a four-wheel-drive. To hike around the White House Ruins trail, which spans 2.5 miles, there are no requirements. To take other trails, a service permit is required. You will also be provided with a guide during both activities. There is much to see so you might want to set some time for sheer sightseeing and photography. You can even have a picnic there. If you plan ahead, you can also go horseback riding around the canyon.
Accommodations:
There are plenty of hotels available in both Chinle and Window Rock. Camping is also available, these campsites are open to everyone for free, as long as you reserve early. If you plan to camp with a big group, make sure to reserve several months in advance. If you prefer backcamping, it is also possible but you will be provided with a guide.
Guided Tours at Canyon de Chelly:
If you want to see everything there is to see, but is not much into off-road driving or hiking, you can also take jeep tours around the canyon. This way, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the passing view. Jeep tours will also give you the chance to take shots of various rock arts in the canyon.
General Information:
If you are planning to go to Canyon de Chelley, the following information will be of help to you.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM daily, all year round except for Christmas Day
Phone numbers: 928-674-5500/928-674-5507 (fax); for jeep tours, call 928-674-5841.
Entrance fees: Vehicle entrance is free, driving at $15/vehicle, hiking at $15/hour.
Reservations: If you want to camp there, reserve two months in advance and earlier if you will go in a large group.
|
