Exploring Tuzigoot National Monument

On our family trip to Sedona back in 2018, we made a stop at Tuzigoot National Monument.

And, it turned out to be a fun stop on our journey to the Grand Canyon.

Rising above the Verde River Valley, Tuzigoot is a hilltop pueblo built by the Sinagua people around A.D. 1125. Over time, this ancient settlement grew into a thriving community of about 200 residents living within its 110 interconnected rooms.

For nearly 400 years, the Sinagua farmed the valley below, growing corn, beans, and squash while trading pottery, shells, and woven goods with nearby tribes. Eventually, they moved on—perhaps due to climate change, limited resources, or shifting trade routes—leaving behind the stone walls that still stand today as a window into their world.

Tuzigoot is easy to explore with kids. The short trail leads up the hill to the restored pueblo, where you can step inside ancient rooms and enjoy sweeping desert views.

Combined with a visit to Montezuma Castle or Jerome, it makes a perfect family day trip from Sedona or Cottonwood.

For more photos and insights from our visit, read the full story on Substack:

👉 Discovering a Remote Civilization

Getting There

• From Sedona: About 28 miles. 

• From Flagstaff: Approximately 68 miles. 

• From Phoenix: Around 100 miles.

Tuzigoot National Monument is open year-round, with a small visitor center, picnic area, and ranger-led programs that make the experience even more engaging for families.

And if you love turning your travels into memories, the DuckAbroad app helps you record your visits, collect digital stickers, and track your family’s adventures across the world’s most fascinating sites.

Download DuckAbroad on iOS or Android.