Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Usual hours

• Mon–Sun 7:00–17:00

From 56 published days, 2026-10-19 to 2026-12-13; community-mapped.

About

This park's official page lists: Wheelchair-accessible facilities.

Entrance / day-use fee applies.

This park's official page lists: Restrooms, Visitor center.

At the park

• Biking activity
• Camping activity
• Stargazing scenic feature
• Hiking trails trail

Shows and experiences

• Ranger & guided programs

Events

• Fall Equinox Sunrise Program

Before you go

Disability access

This park's official page states it has wheelchair-accessible facilities. Specific routes, transfer access and equipment vary — confirm with the park for your needs.

Limits

Each group site can accomodate a maximum of 30 people

Limits

Service Animals: Service animals are allowed anywhere that you are allowed to go in the park

Getting there

Your journey into Chaco Canyon will take you through private tribal lands. Please be respectful of our tribal neighbors and their livestock and leave no trace of your journey on their lands. Chaco Canyon is located in northwestern New Mexico. The park can only be accessed by driving on dirt roads. Road conditions can be rough or impassable. Please call in advance for updates.

Weather & when to go

Summer highs are typically in the 80s to mid-90s. Thunderstorms can produce heavy localized downpours and sudden dramatic drops in temperatures. Winter temperatures will drop to well below freezing most nights. If you plan to camp in the winter, prepare for nighttime temperatures in the teens or lower. Spring and fall are great times to visit with more moderate temperatures, but unexpected storms can change things dramatically. Monitor local weather forecasts.

⚠ Caution: Road conditions 10/15/26

The north road (CR 7950) is completely impassable, with flowing water in the new wash, significant drop-offs close to the wash, and quicksand-like conditions underneath the water. The south road (Hwy 57) is drying quickly. There are some mud puddles remaining closer to the park; medium to high clearance is recommended, and AWD is a plus. Please call for additional updates as needed: 505-786-7014.

Visitor center

Chaco Culture National Historical Park Visitor Center — The visitor center and park are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. The visitor center has a gift shop and orientation film. — Please click on the link for detailed directions to our visitor center.

Facilities on the park map

1 visitor information.

History

Opened

1980

Heritage status

Listed heritage / protected status

• Park opened