Frequently Asked Questions

Chimney Rock is a rarity within the USDA Forest Service. Designated a National Monument in 2012 by President Obama, it remains under the domain of the Forest Service.

  • Access to the Visitor Center is by gravel road about one-half mile from the entrance gate. The gate is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm between May 15 and October 15. However, the gate that allows access to the archeological sites is closed daily at 3:15pm due to a minimum time of 1 hour to tour the sites.
  • Visitors may hike into the Monument, ride horses, bicycle (only on the road) or snowshoe.
  • Horses and dogs are not permitted on the interpretive trails.

Most people are familiar with the Anasazi.  Today we use the term Ancestral Puebloans to refer to the people who lived in the area and recognize that they are the ancestors of modern day Puebloans.  Chimney Rock was inhabited by local people but the Great House Pueblo definitely ties the site to the Chacoan culture of the Four Corners area.

Chimney Rock National Monument protects a 1000-year-old community once inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloans.  Four ancient structures have been excavated and stabilized for public viewing.  They include the 44-foot diameter Great Kiva, the Pit House, a multi-room dwelling and the Chacoan Great House Pueblo.  Many unexcavated structures are also visible on the tours within the Monument.

The ancient structures are not easily accessible nor visible from any road. The self-guided tour brochure and trained volunteer interpreters that you may encounter along the trails share the history of the site and the story of the people who lived here over a thousand years ago. The walking tour of both trails includes six stabilized structures.

For a deeper experience, we encourage you to join one of our guided tours led by trained interpreters who bring the history and culture of Chimney Rock to life. Our Great House and Three Sisters Tours are available for walk-ins. Reservations are encouraged. Click here for more information.

If you walk, ride horseback, or otherwise enter the Monument without using a motorized vehicle, you may bring your pets, subject to the general restrictions which apply to National Forest lands. Pets should be under your control. Pets are not permitted on the interpretive trails. Certified service animals are always welcome.

For your convenience, the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association provides three free outdoor kennels in shaded areas. Locks and water bowls are available—please inquire at the Visitor Center for assistance.

Natural hazards include high elevation, possibly causing altitude sickness.  High temperatures and low humidity can result in dehydration.  The Great House Trail navigates a narrow causeway with steep drop-offs.  Afternoon thunderstorms may contain lightning and the mesa top offers no shelter.  Native wildlife includes rattlesnakes, mountain lion, bears and biting insects.  The Monument is used intensively during big-game hunting seasons in the fall and visitors should take proper precautions.