Attractions and Places To See in Navajo County - Top 20

Navajo County is renowned for its striking natural formations. You can witness the iconic View on West Mitten Butte within Monument Valley, a classic symbol of the American West. Another must-see is the Old Faithful giant petrified log in Petrified Forest National Park, showcasing ancient, colorful petrified wood. The region also features unique viewpoints like Camel Butte Overlook and John Ford's Point, offering breathtaking desert vistas.

For a deep dive into ancient Native American history, visit the Navajo National Monument & Visitor Center, which preserves well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people. You can view the Betatakin ruins from an overlook via the accessible Sandal Trail to Betatakin Ruin Overlook. Additionally, Homolovi State Park preserves ancient Hopi ruins, offering insights into their ancestral lives.

Yes, many attractions in Navajo County are suitable for families. The Monument Valley Visitor Center offers iconic views and serves as a starting point for easy walks. Petrified Forest National Park, home to the Old Faithful giant petrified log, provides engaging trails for all ages. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is another excellent choice for families, offering camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.

Navajo County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, such as the 'John Ford's Point – Camel Butte Overlook loop' or the 'Little Brushy loop from Pinetop Country Club'. For mountain biking enthusiasts, trails like the 'Sitgreaves National Forest – Pierce Mountain loop' are available. Hikers can enjoy easy paths like the Wildcat Trail. Find more details on these activities in our guides for Cycling in Navajo County, MTB Trails in Navajo County, and Easy hikes in Navajo County.

The best time to visit Navajo County generally depends on your planned activities. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration and hiking, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and potential winter snows at higher elevations. These seasons provide comfortable conditions for visiting sites like Monument Valley and Petrified Forest National Park.

Yes, several attractions in Navajo County offer accessibility. The Old Faithful giant petrified log trail in Petrified Forest National Park is noted as being good for wheelchair users. The Monument Valley Visitor Center also provides accessible facilities and viewpoints. Additionally, the Sandal Trail at Navajo National Monument offers an accessible overlook of the Betatakin ruins.

Navajo County has a strong connection to historic Route 66. The town of Holbrook, for instance, is rich in Route 66 memorabilia and features the Navajo County Historic Courthouse & Museum. Nearby Winslow is home to the 'Standin' on The Corner Foundation,' a popular tribute to the Eagles' song and a fun photo opportunity along the historic highway.

To delve deeper into the Navajo Nation's culture, visit Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation. Here, you'll find the Navajo Nation Museum, Library, & Visitors Center, which offers native displays and an authentic Navajo Hogan. The Explore Navajo Interactive Museum in Tuba City also provides an immersive journey through Navajo land, language, history, and ceremonial life.

While Monument Valley offers impressive formations, two other significant canyons are located nearby within the Navajo Nation. Antelope Canyon, famous for its stunning, wave-like sandstone formations and ethereal light beams, requires a guided tour. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, rich in history and Anasazi ruins, also offers guided tours to explore its depths, including notable features like Spider Rock and White House Ruins.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a tribal park, not a national park, and lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Visitors can take guided tours with experienced Navajo guides to gain insights into the local culture and terrain. The Monument Valley Visitor Center is the primary entry point and offers iconic views of the West Mitten, East Mitten, and Merrick Butte.

Yes, Navajo County provides several opportunities for camping and fishing. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is a popular spot for both, offering a scenic lake environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, local communities like Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside, along with the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, provide various campgrounds and recreational areas for these activities.

Petrified Forest National Park requires an entrance fee, which typically covers a 7-day pass. No special permits are generally needed for day hiking on established trails. However, if you plan to backpack overnight, a free wilderness permit is required and can be obtained at the visitor centers. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current information on fees and permits.