Discover Diné Bikéyah, the land of the Navajo people
The Navajo Nation is the largest sovereign nation in the United States and spans over 27,000 square miles across three states: Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
Start your journey in Window Rock, Arizona, the capital of the Navajo Nation, and explore the Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park & Veteran’s Memorial. Made of sandstone and sky, the Window Rock is a geological formation that stands 200 feet high and sits at the head of the tribal government. In addition, the park honors the service of Navajo military veterans, including the renowned Navajo Code Talkers.
Afterwards, visit the Navajo Nation Museum, Library, & Visitor’s Center to immerse yourself in the arts, culture, and history of the Diné, the Navajo people. The museum features exhibitions and displays that offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the tribe’s resilience, perseverance, and strength. Visitors are also encouraged to engage with educational resources available in the library or make a purchase at the museum gift shop.
Before venturing forward, be sure to grab a bite to eat at Quality Inn Navajo Nation Capital. The Diné Restaurant offers a variety of Navajo cuisine such as a Navajo taco or mutton stew with frybread. Then head west on Arizona State Route 264 to Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site for a chance to shop for authentic Navajo crafts, rugs, and jewelry. Located in Ganado, Arizona, this trading post has been in operation since 1878 and is the oldest, continuously operated trading post on the Navajo Nation.
Continue west and then head north on U.S. Route 191 towards Chinle, Arizona. Stay the night at Thunderbird Lodge, the only hotel located in Canyon De Chelly National Monument. The lodge offers daily tours led by Navajo guides that offer a unique experience of the surrounding landscape. Or spend the night under the stars and in a hogan, a traditional Navajo home, at Spider Rock Campground. Located on the south rim of the canyon, this campground offers more than 30 spacious RV and tent camping sites for you to choose from.
Experience the sunrise with a breathtaking view at Spider Rock Overlook, a sacred site revered for its cultural significance within Diné creation stories and weaving. It is one of many overlooks along the canyon that offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere to soak up your surroundings. Lastly, take your adventure to the next level with a tour of the canyon by jeep or horseback as you reflect on your journey across the Navajo Nation.
