Canyon de Chelly National Monument

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Canyon de Chelly National Monument *

Explore the beauty of ancestral canyon trails with the priceless guidance of Lupita McClanahan, a Diné elder. We will experience Hozho- or The Beauty Way- and hear stories of her people.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument September 13th-16th

This amazing National Monument is located in the center of Navajo country, Chinle AZ.

The park is co-managed by the Diné people and the National Park Service. Though one may drive along the canyon rim, aside from one public trail, a Diné guide is needed to be able to go to the canyon floor.

This makes our collaboration with Lupita of Footpath Journeys so special. She grew up in the canyon, her land is on the canyon floor. She welcomes us to stay with her and learn about her culture, which adds so much depth to the environment we experience.

  • We will spend 4 days and 3 nights primitive camping at Lupita’s property. You will be responsible for your own camping gear and food during our stay. There are standard pit toilets and a gas range available for us to use. Our camping gear will be transported to our campsite for us.

  • Be prepared to hike 3-4 miles per day on uneven ground. The trails along the canyon side are steep but have traditional Diné footholds carved into the rock and feel surprisingly stable.

  • The closest airport to Chinle, AZ is the Albuquerque Sunport in New Mexico. For an additional fee, I can transport you/your group to Chinle from Albuquerque. Otherwise you may choose to drive directly to Chinle and meet up with the rest of the group.

  • The trip fee is $825.oo. This will cover the first night’s hotel room in Chinle, Lupita’s fee for being our guide for 4 days and 3 nights and the Navajo Reservation overnight fee.

Our Itinerary:

Day 1

We will meet Lupita at 8am and take our cars to a safe location to park. From there, we will start our hike into the canyon. Along the way we will see fantastic cliff dwelling ruins dating back to the Anasazi. Upon arriving on Lupita’s land, we will set up our camp.

Day 2

We will spend the morning hiking in this sacred space. The afternoon will be spent relaxing, making art, reading… at your leisure. Evenings are for stories around the campfire!

Day 3

We will go for a hike another morning hike and then learn about Diné culture. We will learn to make soap from yucca plant, make fry bread tacos and relax.

Day 4

We will take part in a ceremony to properly exit the canyon, pack our gear and hike out of the canyon. Back at our cars, we will have the opportunity to purchase handmade jewellery from a Diné artist.

Time in The Canyon

Our time in the canyon will be spent listening to stories, learning traditional games and exploring. Most importantly, there will be time to relax and take in the beauty of our surroundings.

  • All ages and genders are welcome on this trip. Further details will be sent after purchase. Please reach out with any questions you may have!

  • "Canyon de Chelly, or as the Diné people call it, Tsaile is an amazing red rock canyon full of history and wonder. There is no better way to experience it than with someone completely connected with the land.

  • "We were led through Canyon del Muerte and learned about the history of Lupita's people. The tragic and the beautiful. She is a gifted storyteller that speaks with fluidity, colour and grace."

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