Navajo National Monument, Arizona
Friday, July 21, 2006
On your way in, signs point to the Navajo National Monument, not far off the highway. There you'll find a handsome visitors' center (definitely worth a look) and a trailhead to Betatakin Overlook. It's only a mile's hike and fairly flat -- though if you're not accustomed to high altitude, you're about to find that an easy hike can take your breath away. Keep going. It's worth it. Betatakin is a spectacular 13th century cliff house of the ancient Anasazi. Younger, fitter people may want to walk over there. My estimate is that it will take at least half a day. Two other ancient ruins nearby are rarely seen by visitors. They're much farther and require much more climbing. My suggestion: if you're a true adventurer and must see Keet Seel, call first to clear permission and ask their opinion on how long it will take and where you can camp.
No extreme hiking, no camping? There are several decent hotels in Kayenta.
