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Chaco Culture National Historical ParkPhoto of Jackson Stairs
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Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Things To Do

Self-Guided Tours along the Canyon Loop Drive

The majority of the park and cultural sites are self-guided year-round.  Six major sites are located along the 9-mile long Canyon Loop Drive.  These sites include: Una Vida, Hungo Pavi, Pueblo Bonito, Chetro Ketl, Pueblo del Arroyo, and Casa Rinconada. You may purchase self-guided trail guides at the visitor center bookstore or at the trailheads for these sites.

Ranger Guided Tours

From May to October, ranger-led tours of Pueblo Bonito (and other Chacoan sites) and evening programs are offered. From April to October, the Chaco Night Sky Program presents astronomy programs, daytime solar viewing, and telescope viewing of the spectacular dark night sky. Check the schedule at the visitor center. 

Backcountry Trails:

Four backcountry hiking trails lead visitors to remote Chacaon sites, passing ancient roads, petroglyphs, stairways, and spectacular overlooks of the valley.  The trails are open from sunrise to sunset.  For your safety and protection permits are required.  They are free at the visitor center and at the trail heads.There is no overnight backcountry camping, only camping in Gallo Campground.

Guest Speaker Series:

Chaco Culture National Historical Park hosts noted Historians, Archeologists, Artists, Musicians, and Native American speakers to share their insights and knowledge of Chaco throughout the summer. Click here to see the schedule of speakers.

Aerial photo of Kin Kletso  

Did You Know?
The Acoma (Pueblo Indian) place name for Chaco is W’aasrba shak’a, meaning “place of greasewood,” may have been shortened to Chaca, and then Chaco..
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Last Updated: June 11, 2009 at 18:15 EST