Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki National Monument is an archaeological site with multiple stone buildings constructed from red Moenkopi sandstone blocks set in desert landscape. The largest structure, a pueblo with roughly 100 rooms, demonstrates the construction skill required to build such a complex in this stark environment.

The settlement began in the 11th century following a volcanic eruption from Sunset Crater that left behind rich ash as fertile soil. This natural event attracted residents who lived here for several generations before the community was eventually abandoned.

The structures display building methods developed by Ancestral Pueblo peoples who lived here and traded with distant communities. Walking through the ruins, you notice how inhabitants adapted their design to conserve water and manage the harsh desert environment.

Visitors can walk marked trails and view several buildings up close, with some paths offering easy access to the main structures. Coming early in the day helps since afternoon sun becomes very strong and shade is scarce across the open terrain.

One location on the grounds features a natural opening in the earth where air continuously flows out or draws in depending on atmospheric pressure shifts. Visitors can feel this rare phenomenon firsthand as the air moves steadily through the ground.

Location: Coconino County

Location: Arizona

Inception: December 9, 1924

Operator: United States National Park Service

Part of: Flagstaff Area National Monuments

Website: https://nps.gov/wupa

GPS coordinates: 35.55750,-111.39583

Latest update: December 20, 2025 02:49