Walnut Canyon National Monument

Walnut Canyon is one of three National Monuments in the Flagstaff area, and during our recent trip, it was the one we came close to skipping because of time restraints. I’m SO glad that we made the time for it! Walnut Canyon is definitely a not-​to-​miss experience.
That is, if you are ready to hike.
The real jewel of a visit to Walnut Canyon is the Island Trail, a one-​mile loop hike down into the canyon to get up close to the cliff dwellings. One mile might not seem like much, except that it is 240 steps straight down, and then, of course, straight back up. At high elevation, this will take its toll on many, but just take it slow and stop when you need to, and any reasonably fit person should be able to make it.
But without the hike, this is really just a visit to an interesting but old-​school visitor’s center with a window view across the canyon where you can see one cliff dwelling from a distance. You really need to do the hike… it is AMAZING! Although these dwellings are much smaller than examples at other parks and monuments, they are fascinating nonetheless. I was astonished by how many of them there were – not just the ones that you pass on the trail, but the ones you see all around you on both sides of the canyon! It is incredible to think of this very deep, narrow canyon with precipitous drops as once a thriving community of people.
This site is a super-​quick drive out of Flagstaff, and you could easily take the exit, do the Island Trail hike, explore the visitor center and be back on the interstate in less than two hours. Well worth it at the current price of $ 8/​person.
JUNIOR RANGERS: The workbook here is small, and only one page requires answers available in the Visitor Center. You do not have to do the hike to complete your Jr. Ranger requirements, though you SHOULD! The badge is a basic pin, and there is a Flagstaff Area Jr. Ranger patch for sale.

Pretty awesome !! A good workout coming back up 240 steps! Awesome view! Not so many people around, great to bring kids to learn how the Hopi lived 800 years ago. Canyon apartments, a park ranger roaming around the Island trail to answer questions.
We have national park annual pass, so worth it as we have been to Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon and now Walnut Canyon.
A good way to get kids off electronics, breathe in crisp fresh air and learn about plants, heritage and get them moving

(Not so very) hidden jewel in northern Arizona!
Many visitors skip this little site, but do yourself a favor and don’t! When you stop by, make sure to do the loop down and around the Canyon. It takes only 45 minutes and it is completely worth the time and effort. It is about 180 or so steps down, but once you get to the trail it is pretty much flat all around. If you come from lower altitude, take it easy. The place is way up there and before you know your heart will be pumping like crazy.