Arizona has no shortage of ancient ruins, many of which are accessible via hiking trails. Among the most fascinating is the Navajo National Monument, where you can marvel at three Native American cliff dwellings that remain surprisingly intact after more than 800 years of abandonment.

Navajo National Monument protects three of the most intact cliff dwellings erected by the Anasazi people: Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House.
Wikimedia Commons/MPSharwood
Abandoned since 1300 AD, these castle-like ruins tell fascinating stories about their earliest inhabitants.
If you're looking for a self-guided adventure, there are three hiking trails to choose from.
Wikimedia Commons / MPSharwood
The most popular among them is the Sandal Trail, which leads to an overlook from which the cliff dwellings can be seen. The other two trails, while scenic, don't offer views of the ruins.
Along the Sandal Trail, you'll see a traditional Navajo sweat lodge.
Wikimedia Commons / Burley Packwood
These structures are incredibly sacred and have long-since been used for ceremonial purposes.

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From late May until early September, ranger-guided tours are offered.
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The hike to Betatakin takes 3-5 hours round-trip, while a 17-mile backcountry trek is required to access Keet Seel.
You can opt for either a full-day hike or an overnight backpacking excursion to Keet Seel.
Wikimedia Commons/PatrickRapps
Reservations are required, and the trip is limited to 20 hikers per day.
As for Betatakin, you don't need to reserve a spot.
Wikimedia Commons/Jon Sullivan
Sign-up sheets are available in the Visitor Center.
The dwellings might be what Navajo National Monument is known for, but your experience doesn't have to end there.
Wikimedia Commons/Burley Packwood
In the Visitor Center, you'll find a museum showcasing artifacts excavated from the ruins as well as an auditorium where films about the park are played on a loop.

Please note: the Monument is currently closed, but reservations for hiking to Keet Seel this summer open up on February 1.

Visit the official website or Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever visited Navajo National Monument? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments below!

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Navajo National Monument, Arizona 86033, USA