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Rim Drives at Canyon de Chelly
Drives on the north and south rim of Canyon de Chelly National Monument do not require any fee, guide or permit. After exploring inside the canyon, driving along the rim offers a fun perspective of where you’ve been.
South Rim Drive
Starting at the Visitor Center, the 36-mile round-trip South Rim drive (best for afternoon photos) includes seven overlooks. At White House Overlook, it’s possible to hike the White House trail (if it’s open) into the canyon to White House Ruins. The road ends at Spider Rock Overlook where you’ll enjoy spectacular Canyon de Chelly views.
North Rim Drive
The 26-mile round-trip North Rim Drive (best for morning photos) begins at the Visitor Center. Overlooks include Antelope House, Mummy Cave, and Massacre Cave. You’ll be sharing the road with free range livestock so be careful.
BOOMER TRAVEL TIP
Check out more of our national park travel ideas.
Where to Stay at Canyon de Chelly
We stayed at Best Western Canyon de Chelly Inn in Chinle.
Thunderbird Lodge is the only lodging located within Canyon de Chelly. Operated by the Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise, the lodge includes an historic trading post. Don’t miss shopping for Navajo rugs, crafts and jewelry.
Holiday Inn Canyon de Chelly is another Chinle option.
How to Get to Canyon de Chelly
From Kayenta, Arizona (near Monument Valley) it’s 87 miles to Canyon de Chelly. Go east on Hwy. 160, then right on Route 59 (toward Chinle), then left on Hwy. 191 (south). Visitor center is 3 miles from Route 191 (in Chinle).
Driving From Flagstaff, AZ, you’ll travel 188 miles on a route that begins on I-40 East, then Hwy. 191 (north).
From Gallup, NM (142 miles), drive Hwy. 264 to Hwy. 191 (north).
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