The 164,000 acre monument contains the highest known density of archeological sites anywhere in the United States. Rich, well-preserved remnants of native cultures go back thousands of years. There are more than 20,000 archeological sites in the monument.  Visitors to the expansive monument are encouraged to contact the Anasazi Heritage Center before visiting the National Monument, as many of the sites are in remote areas.

People have survived in these rugged canyons and mesas for thousands of years. Hunters and gathers likely crossed this area 10,000 years ago. Farming in the area flourished between 450 and 1300 A.D. Villages were established, evolving from pit houses to cliff dwellings and pueblos.

The more than 20,000 archeological sites in the monument reflect many components of past human life: villages, cliff dwellings, field houses,  sweat lodges, petroglyphs, kivas, great kivas, agricultural fields, dams and reservoirs.  Some areas of the monument have more than 100 sites per square mile.                                                            Canyon of the Ancients Map

Lowry Ruins, located in the Canyons of the Ancient National Monument, is fully developed, stabilized and includes interpretive signes to help educate visitors.

The 7-mile (one way) Sand Canyon Trail in the monument passes several small cliff dwellings and travels through spectacular canyon scenery.

Also within the Monument, Painted Hand Pueblo, was once home to an extended family, includes a tower, sleeping rooms, and storage structures.

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More Photographs by Steve: Antelope Canyon|Monument Valley

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Copyright © 1995 - 2007 Steve Schmorleitz. All rights reserved.
Revised: March 23, 2008.
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