Arizona, with its world-renowned natural attractions and bustling cities, is a hot spot for avid travelers year-round. Often lost among the countless things this state has to offer is Montezuma Castle National Monument—a small attraction that will assuredly take your breath away. This monument could very well be the bridge to a part of America’s history that you’ve been missing. This site, once a six-story home to the Sinagua people, is now a national monument visited by thousands of adventurous tourists just like you.
You may be wondering: with a colorful name like Montezuma, surely there has to be a connection to the ancient Aztec civilization? Well, simply put, no there isn’t. None at all. While traveling through the area long after the Sinagua people had left, European-Americans mistakenly believed this site was developed by the Aztec Emperor, Montezuma. Although this area has no connection to the Aztecs, the name has stuck through centuries, and has become a common tongue for the nearby attractions.
The settlers may have accidentally stumbled upon it, but with our help, your trip to the Montezuma Castle National Monument will be a lot more scheduled. To make sure you get the most out of your time, we’ve put together a list of things you should absolutely know before you begin your journey to the heart of Arizona:
- What is Montezuma Castle National Monument known for?
- What are the top spots to see at Montezuma Castle National Monument?
- Hiking/Trails Information
- Camping Information
- Where to stay
What is Montezuma Castle National Monument known for?
The Sinagua people were a pre-Colombian group of individuals located in the southwest part of America. With their sharp hunter-gatherer and agricultural instincts, many generations of these people lived happily throughout large parts of central Arizona. In fact, they are thought to have been present in the area for over 300 years.
This specific area, Montezuma Castle National Monument, lies on 860 acres of land near the center of Arizona. Well before it became a hot spot for tourists, generations of Sinagua people occupied this land, and made good use of it. Relying mostly on small-scale agriculture, these people lived in the highlands and valleys surrounding the nearby area. The Sinagua people were heavily reliant on water – rain was their best friend and the irrigation systems of the Verde River kept the people going for many decades.
The world-renowned castle located in the center of this area was put to good use during the Sinagua’s long stay. This rather advanced piece of architecture was commonly used for community meetings — keeping the locals up to date on recent events going on in the land. In addition, during harsh times, the castle lent itself as a storage unit — food and seeds that needed protection would be placed high up in the cliff to make sure it stayed fresh and out of harm’s way.
After a rather extensive period in this area, the Sinagua people left their beautiful, hand-made town, leaving behind a plethora of ruins, telling a deep history of both success and struggle. Although access to the inside of the ruins is not allowed, the sights, trails and museum give you an extensive lesson on a part of ancient American culture that is often forgotten.
On December 8, 1906, this beautiful site was dedicated as a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt, making it only one of four original sites to be given such an honor by our former president. If the recommendation from a former president isn’t enough to get you packing, we have plenty more praise for this beautiful area!
Since 1906, much work has been done to excavate the area, and preserve it at any cost. In 1933, the main castle was excavated, and myriad artifacts were found lying in the area. These artifacts have been a huge help to researchers in understanding the way of life of the Sinagua people. These artifacts have been carefully preserved and are available for you to see!
According to archaeological findings, there seems to have been another castle tucked into the cliff during the Sinagua period. Due to what most probably was a natural disaster, this castle is only remembered by the simple remains and foundations scattered across the cliff. Don’t worry the remaining castle has been around for hundreds of years, and isn’t going anywhere!
Still need more? The vast wildlife in this area is also worth indulging in. With hundreds of species inhabiting this land, you are bound to see a few animals you won’t soon forget. There are a lot of hidden gems at Montezuma Castle National Monument. If you’re not careful, you just might miss some of the best landscapes this small section of Arizona has to offer.
What are the top spots to see at Montezuma Castle National Monument?
Although Montezuma Castle National Monument isn’t as big as many other sites in this state, with all there is to do, you can easily spend just as much time here. Whether you are into simple sightseeing or getting a workout during your trip, Montezuma Castle National Monument has something for everyone. We know planning can be the most overwhelming part of a trip. So, we’ve decided to help out by picking out a few of our favorite spots that you absolutely do not want to miss.
- The Montezuma Castle
- The Montezuma Well
- Montezuma Castle Monument Museum
- Wet Beaver Creek
The Montezuma Castle
The main event of your trip will undoubtedly be seeing this incredible architectural achievement. This castle, carved into the cliff, is recognized as one of the most well preserved cliff dwellings in the western hemisphere simply because the placement of the structure naturally leads to shielding from rain, floods, and other adverse weather conditions.
The fact that this abode is built into a cliff raises a lot of questions. Understandably, you might be wondering how the Sinagua people got up into the house every day? These highly skilled individuals had a series of intricate ladders that were used to get to the structure. It may sound easy, but this was much more arduous than imaginable. Due to safety reasons and preservation, you won’t get to climb to the castle this time. But don’t worry, there is still much to see!
This castle is what Montezuma Castle National Monument is all about. Make sure you stop by for some pictures and a history lesson you will never forget!
The Montezuma Well
About five miles upstream from the castle, near the small town of Lake Montezuma, sits a natural limestone sinkhole that is sure to take your breath away.
At nearly 60 feet deep and 370 feet wide, this behemoth of a sinkhole and its surrounding areas are home to many critters you may struggle to find elsewhere. Due to the warm Arizona climate, and the habitat created by the well, you can potentially run into over 700 different species of plants, bird, owls this area has to offer. You may be disappointed to hear that the well is not home to any fish, however. Due to the chemical makeup of the water, fish cannot survive in this environment. But many aquatic animals have adapted to the area and live prosperously. Keep an eye out for them!
From a practical standpoint, the well has been used for irrigation for over 1300 years. Even today, maybe nearby locations use this well to help with agriculture and day-to-day survival.
Montezuma Castle Monument Museum
The small museum within the Visitor Center is a quick stop and one that should not be missed. Brimming with ancient tools and other artifacts, the museum gives you insight into how the castle and other abodes were made by the original inhabitants.
Although this stop is quick, missing it would be quite unfair to the Sinagua people. To truly appreciate the hard work required to build such extensive houses, make sure you stop by, admire the simple tools they used, and bask in the beauty of how such little technology created such stunning architecture.
Wet Beaver Creek
Still have some time on your hands and enthusiasm in your heart? A little ways away is a small secluded creek that really enables you to connect with the natural beauty of this state. Wet Beaver Creek is overflowing with extravagant species of plants and animals; make sure to keep an eye out for things you may have never seen before!
Although not part of the Montezuma Castle National Monument, this creek is a short drive away, and well worth your time. If you’re not in a hurry, stop by this brook and see the beautifully preserved area and the wildlife that inhabits it!
Hiking/Trails Information
Montezuma Castle National Monument Trail
The hiking opportunities in this area are very friendly to individuals of all skill levels. Montezuma Castle National Monument Trail is a 0.4 mile loop around the sight, and is an absolute must. As you make your way through this paved trail, be aware of not only the castle tucked into the corner of the cliff, but the natural foliage all around!
If history is your forte, this trail is another easy way to dive deep into the antiquity of the beautiful lands. With signs dispersed all throughout the walk, this path gives you more detailed information about the castle, and all the trees/plants you run into. Still have questions? The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and willing to help every step of the way!
Known for the illustrious views of the valleys and mountaintops that make up this area, Montezuma Castle National Monument Trail is a quick and easy way to round out your Montezuma experience!
Tuzigoot Ruins Trail
If one trail isn’t enough to satisfy your adventurous side, our second recommendation is the Tuzigoot Ruins Trail. Just a little ways away, this short and paved hike will give you a final look at the Puebloan lifestyle.
The mountain ranges in the distance and the ruins scattered around the area will transport you to a time and place often lost in the history books. The Tuzigoot Ruins Trail is a great vantage point to take in the surrounding areas, and helps give an omniscient view of the world the Sinagua people lived in.
Have your dog with you? Not to worry, both of these trails are dog-friendly, so long as your little friend is kept on a leash!
Whether you are strolling through the Montezuma Castle National Monument Trail or the Tuzigoot Ruins Trail, it is important to keep in mind that these extraordinary sights have been so well kept because of respectful visitors like you. Make sure you help preserve this part of our beautiful land by leaving things the way you found them!
Camping Information (Campgrounds in the park, etc.)
Unfortunately, there are no campgrounds at Montezuma Castle National Monument. The area is strictly protected, and so you won’t find a comfortable spot to stake your tent.
Don’t let this detract from your experience! Arizona is full of natural beauties and with it, great spots to spend a night under the stars. Fort Verde State Historic Park is just a short drive away. This area will more than fulfill all your camping desires. The campgrounds here are plentiful and a great way to spend some outdoor time after a day at Montezuma Castle National Monument.
Make sure to check the Fort Verde Historic Park official website campground specific regulation. In addition, make sure to plan ahead, as this area could be filled with like-minded individuals! Lastly, as always, remember to leave the campgrounds the way you found them! Want more details? Read the FAQs of this historic park here.
If you wish to stay a little closer to the center of attraction however, a hotel maybe your best option.
Where to Stay in Montezuma Castle National Monument
Since there are no campgrounds at Montezuma Castle National Monument, your best bet would be to spend your nights in one of the nearby towns. Camp Verde would be our strongest recommendation. The small community adds to the experience of the Sinagua way, and the Montezuma Castle is only a short drive away. The town is brimming with Sinagua influence, even 600 years later.
Should you choose a hotel as your means of lodging, we definitely recommend booking your rooms in advance. Montezuma Castle National Monument is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Christmas. This year-round access makes this monument a hot spot. Over 300 thousand individuals visit this area every year. If you want a place to stay, get booking!
Airbnb’s are also a viable option in this area. Although choices may be more limited and the options maybe a little further away, they are still well within driving distance and are well worth looking into.
With a strong fusion of outdoor fun and a deep-rooted history, Montezuma Castle National Monument is a quick stop that is an absolute must for any avid traveler. Bring your friends and family, because with all the stuff to do here, there is something for everyone! At this family-friendly historical sight, learn more about those who came before the Europeans, and how their influence shaped our nation today!
