Wupatki National Monument, near Flagstaff, AZ preserves pueblos once inhabited by ancestors of the Hopi and Zuni people, amid red rocks and prairies.
Curious about ancient civilizations? You’ve come to the right place. Wupatki National Monument offers a glimpse into the past, where the ancestors of today’s Hopi, Zuni, and other Puebloan people built the Citadel and Wupatki pueblos in a cultural crossroads of sorts.
History & Nature
Tucked between the Painted Desert and the ponderosa highlands of northern Arizona, Wupatki has a long history. These ancient people collected their water from Wupatki Spring, just 100 meters from Wupatki Pueblo. Although the spring is now dry, it used to produce about 500 gallons per day – enough to sustain the population. Their diet consisted of corn, beans, squash, seeds and grains, plus fresh meat from hunting. Wupatki National Monument was established in 1924 by President Calvin Coolidge, to preserve these archaeological sites.
Things To Do
Today you’ll see the pueblos amidst the red rock outcropping surrounded by miles of prairie. Spend some time here and ponder the resilience of people who carved their existence out of this challenging landscape.
Hotels, Lodging & Camping
Accommodations and camping are available in Flagstaff.
Hours & Pricing
Open daily, sunrise – sunset, year-round.
Visitor Center: Open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Christmas Day
* Please verify hours on the website.
Entrance Fees (includes entry to both Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments):
Per Vehicle: $25/7 days
Motorcycles: $20/7 days
Individual/Bicycle: $15/7 days
For More Information
Wupatki National Monument
6400 U.S. 89
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 679-2365
