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If you are planning a trip out West, chances are that you’ve thought about visiting the Grand Canyon, Sequoia National Park, or Zion National Park. These are all very popular destinations (and for good reason!), but you should also consider visiting some lesser-known destinations.
Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation, is home to one such hidden gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary. Located on the border of Arizona and New Mexico, Window Rock offers a unique experience that immerses you in Navajo culture and breathtaking natural beauty.
In this guide, we will take you on a journey to explore Window Rock and discover its hidden treasures. From the iconic Window Rock itself, with its majestic sandstone arch, to the Code Talker Monument that pays tribute to the heroic Navajo Code Talkers, you will uncover the stories and significance behind these remarkable landmarks.
Table of Contents
The Navajo Nation
The Navajo Nation is the largest Native American reservation in the United States, encompassing over 27,000 sq miles. It is so large, in fact, that it is bigger than 10 U.S. states: Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Hawaii, New Jersey, West Virginia, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Delaware.
Where is the Navajo Nation?
The Navajo Nation is located in the southwestern United States. It encompasses parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
Why is the Navajo Nation special?
About 340,000 people live in the Navajo Nation. About 50% of the population can speak Navajo fluently. Out of all the Native American languages in the United States, Navajo is the most widely spoken. This can be attributed to the Navajo Nation’s efforts in promoting their language in their educational system and their efforts to maintain their cultural traditions.
Window Rock
Window Rock is the capital of the Navajo Nation and is located on the border of Arizona and New Mexico. Window Rock, or tségháhoodzání in Navajo, is named for its large sandstone monument with its characteristic arch in the center. The pale orange monument provides a stunning backdrop to the deep blue sky. There are a few trees on top of the monument and even inside the “window”. The best place to view the monument is from the Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial.
Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial
Code Talker Memorial
There is a large statue of a Navajo Code Talker located directly in front of the Window Rock monument. The statue honors the hundreds of Navajo who served in the military during World War II, delivering messages in their native language that could not be deciphered by enemy forces. These code talkers were instrumental in ensuring American victory in World War II.
Navajo as a code language
The Navajo language was a perfect option for transmitting Top Secret messages due to the complexity of the language. Also, prior to World War II, the language had not been written down. Some accounts claim that only one or two non-Navajo could understand the language in the 1940’s. The Navajo code talkers developed a code so complex that even native Navajo speakers couldn’t understand it. The Japanese, who were exceptionally skilled at deciphering codes, were never able to understand the Code Talkers.
Navajo servicemen
The memorial also pays tribute to the many Navajo who have served in the military. Navajo are over-represented in the armed forces. Native Americans as a whole serve in the military at 5 times the national average. The location of the Veterans Memorial in front of the Window Rock monument is perfect to serve as a tribute for those who have sacrificed for their home.
Best Time to Visit Window Rock
The best time to visit Window Rock is between April and October to avoid freezing temperatures. If you want to avoid crowds, you should come on a weekday. I visited on a weekday afternoon in September and there were no other people there. The weather was also perfect.
Where to Stay around Window Rock
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay around Window Rock. What you choose will depend on your budget, desired level of luxury, and what kind of experiences you wish to have.
Low budget
For those who are on a budget, I recommend staying at the Rodeway Inn in Gallup, New Mexico. Gallup is the closest town to Window Rock, and offers much more accommodation options than Window Rock does. The Rodeway Inn is the highest-rated budget motel, and it also offers free breakfast.
Medium budget
If you want to stay in Window Rock, I recommend the Quality Inn Navajo Nation Capital. There are not a lot of options in Window Rock, and this hotel is highly rated. Staying in Window Rock will allow you to easily visit the Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial, along with other attractions in the city. Rooms here go for about $114/night.
High budget
For a truly luxurious experience, I recommend staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in Gallup. After a long day of exploring, you can go back to the hotel and relax in the heated indoor pool or eat at the restaurant.
Check out the map below for available accommodations.
FAQs about the Navajo Nation
1. Can anyone go to the Navajo Nation?
Yes, anyone can go to the Navajo Nation. You do not need to get any kind of approval or permission to go there. However, there are certain activities that are prohibited, such as camping, without a permit.
2. When is the Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial open?
The Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. What are some other attractions at the Navajo Nation?
My favorite attraction at the Navajo Nation is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. This is about 130 miles, or about 3 hours of driving, away from Window Rock. The Four Corners Monument is also a popular attraction, located about 72 miles (1.5 hours driving) from Window Rock.
4. How many days do you need at the Navajo Nation?
I recommend you stay 2-4 days at the Navajo Nation. This gives you time to travel around and see the different landmarks and attractions. It is possible to do everything in 1 day, but you will likely feel rushed.
5. What foods should I try at the Navajo Nation?
My favorite food to eat on the Navajo reservation is fry bread. It is basically bread that is made by deep frying flour, salt, and water, and topped with sugar or honey. You can also try Indian tacos, which consist of fry bread topped with meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
