The National Monument occupies 35,422 acres of land at an elevation of ~5000'. The Sinagua (Spanish for without water) and Anasazi Indians lived in this area. Wupatki, which is a Hopi word for "Tall House," is a multi-story dwelling with more than one hundred rooms. People lived in these structures for over a hundred years, but by the year 1225, the settlement was abandoned never to be occupied again. There is also of geological interest a blowhole in the ground very near the settlement. Just south of the Wupatki settlement, the Wukoki (Big House) settlement still stands. There are 4 other smaller ruins in the area that are part of the National Monument. Although near the Sunset Crater, it is at a significantly lower elevation by over 2000'. This land as at the edge of the Painted Desert and the Coconino National Forest. You can proceed south for another 18 miles along FS 545 into Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. Flagstaff is the largest city in the area and offers full resources and facilities. The National Monument offers very limited facilities.

Outdoor activities include hiking and sightseeing. For more information, contact Wupatki National Monument, 6400 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004 or call 520-679-2365.

All pictures on this page are from the Wupatki Canyon National Monument.

The Wukoki Pueblo Ruins.
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The Wupatki Pueblo Ruins.
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A gathering or gaming area in The Wupatki Pueblo Ruins.
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Proceed to the Montezuma Castle National Monument.
Return to the Coconino National Forest Home page.

Further information can be found at the Wupatki National Monument GORP page
or Wupatki National Monument AreaParks.com page.