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Enjoy the cool oasis of the Beaver Creek Valley with views of Montezuma's Castle.


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Map Key

0.4

Miles

0.7

KM

Lollipop

3,209' 978 m

High

3,193' 973 m

Low

19' 6 m

Up

19' 6 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

2%

Max Grade (1°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek

Family Friendly The short trail and immense history make this an excellent stop for families.

Closed Christmas Day. Open daily 8am-5pm. Admission fee for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments is $10/person, good at both monuments.

Overview

Montezuma Castle was one of the first four National Monuments dedicated in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt Make your way among the Arizona Sycamores in the oasis that is the Beaver Creek valley.

Description

The site of Montezuma's castle is visible from the trail. Your whole way is paved, so you won't have to worry about obstacles distracting your view of the spectacular ruins. The "castle", nearly 800 years old, remains remarkably well preserved. The longevity of the ruins speaks to the ingenuity of the Sinagua people, who managed to prosper in a harsh desert climate. While the trail isn't much to speak of, the history visible from the edges is worth the visit.

The ruins are not open to the general public to preserve the cultural and scientific integrity of the pueblo site.

Flora & Fauna

Arizona Sycamores and Cottonwoods along the creek provide a shady oasis in the midst of the surrounding desert landscape filled with mesquite, catclaw and saltbush.

Contacts

Shared By:

Thomas Birch

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 7 votes

#2917

Overall
  4.4 from 7 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#123

in Arizona

#2,917

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Photos

Ancient Montezuma Castle built into the rocks.
Apr 13, 2021 near Camp Verde, AZ
Montezuma Castle nestled in the white cliffs.
Apr 13, 2021 near Camp Verde, AZ
Montezuma's Castle.
Jan 30, 2016 near Camp Verde, AZ

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