Learning about Native American culture is something our family really loves doing. At Montezuma Castle and Well, we learned about the Sinagua people and what it took to survive and prosper in a beautiful, yet challenging area.
Location
One national monument, two locations
If you find yourself in the central Arizona area, you need to experience this piece of the National Park Service. Montezuma Castle is located 50 miles south of Flagstaff and 90 miles north of Phoenix. It’s a beautiful drive either direction you’re coming. Don’t stop at just the castle though. Make your way to the Well, which is about 15 minutes from the castle, to complete the whole experience.
The Castle
Parking
If you’ve done any hiking whatsoever in the Flagstaff/Sedona area, you know that parking can be a big challenge. This monument has a parking area right next to the visitor center for approximately 50 vehicles. There is no RV parking, but you can make it work if you don’t have any other option but to bring your rig. It’s always a good idea to go early. We arrived mid morning and found a few spots.
Trail
The trail to see the amazing castle is less than 1/2 mile, completely paved, and has some shade. It begins at the visitor center and conveniently makes a loop back around to where you began. The trail does not lead up to the castle and you can’t go into the castle either. This is strictly an observe only trail. There are benches and options to have a picnic so plan to spend a little time here. 2 hours or so should be perfect.
Don't Miss...
- Castle in the cliff
- Castle A apartment-like structure
- Beaver Creek
The Well
Parking
In this area of the monument, you’ll find far less parking options. There is a lot for about 20 vehicles. However, they do have a place for larger vehicles. When we arrived after visiting the Castle, there were several parking spaces available. It doesn’t appear that the Well gets as many visitors.
Trail
This trail is also about 1/2 mile in length, but it’s not as easy. Past the ranger station, you’ll hike up 80 yards to the top of the Well. It’s a great view and completely worth it! After that you can choose to either stay up top or go down to the Swallet Rooms for a closer look at the Well itself and some ruins. There are a lot of steps to get there so be prepared. You can easily skip this part and take the loop back around to the parking area. If you’re feeling up for it, go to the Outlet and see how the Sinagua people dug a type of ditch in order to use the Well better. TRAIL MAP
Don't Miss...
- The Well and Ruins
- Bat Cave at the Swallet Rooms
- Irrigation Ditch at the Outlet
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Montezuma Castle National Monument or the National Park Service.
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