First things first, it’s pronounced “de shay”. This beautiful canyon has much less tourist traffic than many destinations in Arizona, largely thanks to its isolated location. Tourists are also strictly prohibited away from paved roads and the White House Trail without a Navajo guide. The White House Trail, accessed from the South Rim, descends into the canyon and winds through cottonwoods and willows to the White House ruins. Migration could produce surprises, and it’s worth looking for unusual breeders as well. Although birding on the canyon rims is slim, the area is beautiful. Also, the visitor center has a very interesting museum.

Indian Route 7 is not recommended; the road is partially unpaved and unmaintained. GPS units and cell phone services are unreliable.

• The Visitor Center is 3 miles (4.8 km) from US-191 in Chinle, AZ.
• From Flagstaff, AZ, take I-40 East then US-191 North.
• From Gallup, NM, take AZ-264 West then US-191 North.
• From Kayenta, AZ, take Indian Route 59 Southeast then US-191 South.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument was authorized in 1931 by President Herbert Hoover in large measure to preserve the important archeological resources that span more than 4,000 years of human occupation. The monument encompasses approximately 84,000 acres of land located entirely on the Navajo Nation with roughly 40 families residing within the park boundaries. The National Park Service and the Navajo Nation share resources and continue to work in partnership to manage this special place.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is comprised entirely of Navajo tribal trust land with a resident community within the canyons. A backcountry permit and authorized guide are required to enter the canyon except for the White House Trail.