Window Rock, Natural arch near Navajo Nation headquarters in Apache County, US.
Window Rock is a natural sandstone arch formation located near the Navajo Nation's administrative headquarters in Arizona. The opening passes cleanly through the red rock, framing views of the surrounding landscape beyond it.
In 1936, the Navajo tribal council chose this location for its administrative center, drawn to the natural formation nearby. This decision made it the headquarters for all tribal government activities and decisions.
The Navajo people view this sandstone formation as a powerful symbol woven into their tribal identity and official emblems. Visitors notice how the arch shapes the way locals gather and connect with their heritage.
A paved pathway connects the arch to the nearby administrative center, where parking is available throughout the year. The walk is straightforward and the site is easy to navigate on foot.
The opening formed entirely through natural erosion without any human modification or enhancement. This geological coincidence meant that the Navajo found a ready-made symbol already waiting when they selected their government seat.
Location: Apache County
GPS coordinates: 35.68286,-109.04931
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:06
Geological forces have carved openings, arches, and caves into rock formations across continents through millions of years of erosion. Water, wind, and weathering have shaped these natural structures from various rock types, creating landmarks that reveal the Earth's ongoing transformation. The formations appear in diverse environments, from coastlines where ocean waves carve passages through limestone cliffs to desert regions where wind erosion creates openings in sandstone walls. This collection spans locations such as Durdle Door along England's Jurassic Coast, where a 200-foot (60-meter) arch rises from layers dating to the Mesozoic era. The Faraglioni Rocks off Capri reach heights of 360 feet (109 meters) and include a natural passage navigable by boat. In landlocked regions, formations like the Eyes of God in Bulgaria's Prohodna Cave display symmetrical ceiling openings where sunlight penetrates the rock. Desert sites such as Las Ventanas in Argentina's Andes showcase wind-carved arches in remote sandstone landscapes. Each location offers direct evidence of erosion processes that continue shaping these geological features, from readily accessible coastal points to isolated areas requiring significant travel to reach.
Fort Wingate
51.9 km
Hawikuh Ruins
83.7 km
El Rancho Hotel & Motel
33.7 km
Navajo Nation Council Chamber
339 m
Navajo Nation Zoological and Botanical Park
2.1 km
Navajo Nation Museum
2.1 km
Dowa Yalanne
73.9 km
Roof Butte
86.7 km
Sacred Heart Cathedral
33.3 km
Kin Ya-ah
84.6 km
Allentown Bridge
45.8 km
Querino Canyon Bridge
48.6 km
McKinley County Courthouse
32.9 km
Roy T. Herman's Garage and Service Station
81.2 km
El Morro Theater
31.4 km
Chief Theatre
32.7 km
Gallup Commercial Historic District
32.6 km
White House Ruins
62.9 km
Redwood Lodge
33.5 km
Drake Hotel
32.9 km
United States Post Office
32.8 km
Lebanon Lodge No. 22
32.9 km
Mummy Cave Ruins
67.1 km
Navajo Nation Museum
2.1 km
Antelope House
63.7 km
Hubbell Home
46.1 km
Gallup Cultural Center
32.8 km
Canyon de Chelly National Monument Visitor Center
68.5 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes