Chaco Canyon National Historical Park

One of the centers of ancient Indian civilization, life, culture and trade, Chaco Culture National Historical Park is home to a cluster of more than a dozen important Anasazi (Navajo for "enemy ancestors") ruins that housed more than 7,000 people. The network of roads and system of irrigation - and the elaborate structures and meticulously crafted pottery and basketry - revel a sophisticated society with wide-ranging trade. The important ruins are accessible by self-guided trails, but for those interested in longer hikes, trails lead to the top of mesas for unsurpassed views of the entire Chaco Canyon network of ruins.

A visitor center - featuring a bookstore, museum, and restrooms - and campgrounds are at the east end of the canyon as you enter the park. Accessibility is best by car from the north at the town of Nageezi, via County Road 7900, which is unpaved. From the south, visitors can also arrive via County Road 7900 (turn north at the town of Pueblo Pintado). In either direction, you will come to the junction of County Road 7950, which will take you west in Chaco Canyon. Be aware that these roads can be inaccessible in inclement weather.

For more information contact:

Chaco Canyon National Historical Park

P.O. Box 220

Nageezi, NM 87037

(505) 786-7014

Website