The labyrinth called Canyon de Chelly (pronounced d'SHAY) is really several canyons, which include Canyon de Chelly and Canyon del Muerto. At the mouth of the canyon the rock walls are only 30 feet high. Deeper into the canyons, to the east, the walls rise dramatically until they reach more than 1,000 feet above the floor. The cliffs rise straight up, overshadowing the streams, cottonwoods, and small farms below. Canyon de Chelly National Monument was established in 1931 to preserve archaeological ruins within these canyons and their important record of human history.

• Get directions from Google Maps.
• Get directions from MapQuest.

• See Area Weather Chart.
• See Canyon Country Weather for more information.
• Sunrise/Sunset

• Permits are required to enter the canyon. Only NPS-authorized Navajo guides and NPS personnel are allowed to lead canyon tours.
• Do not enter dwellings or disturb historical or natural features.
• Pets must be on a leash at all times.
• Alcohol is prohibited within the Park and anywhere on the Navajo Reservation.
• See National Park Service Restrictions and Regulations.
• See American Antiquities Act of 1906.
• Archaeological Resources Protection Act Hotline: 800-227-7286.
• See Pets in the Parks and Backcountry.
• See Encountering Wild Animals.

• The canyons are deep and have steep, vertical walls; falls can be fatal. Stay on established trails and stay behind the protective walls.
• Watch for snakes, stinging insects, and thorns. Do not put your hands or feet into any place that you cannot clearly see.
• Thefts can occur wherever you travel. Lock your vehicle at overlooks. Secure valuables out of sight or take them with you.
• From March through November, the Navajo Nation observes Mountain Daylight Savings Time. The rest of Arizona observes Mountain Standard Time all year.
• See Backcountry Considerations.
• See Backcountry Emergencies.