1 day at Tuzigoot & Montezuma Castle National Monuments

Montezuma Castle nestled in a rocky canyon under a clear blue sky.

Experience pueblos and incredible cliff dwellings in a single day as you visit two Indigenous cultural heritage sites in Arizona. Enjoy short hikes and museums as you learn about the unique history of the Verde Valley.

Duration
1 day
Perfect for
Day-trippers, families, and cultural enthusiasts with limited time.
Highlights
History, Indigenous culture, and iconic Arizona landscapes.
Morning

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Cliffside dwelling with trees and grass in sunlight.

Learn

Pick up a park brochure, enjoy the museum and learn about the Indigenous people who built this incredible cliff dwelling. Pick up a Junior Ranger book for kids.

Montezuma Castle built into a rocky hillside under a blue sky.

See the castle

Walk the paved 0.3-mile loop trail to view the stunning five-story cliff dwelling nestled in a limestone alcove. Enjoy the shade of the sycamore trees and listen to the sounds of Beaver Creek.

Montezuma well surrounded by cliffs and sparse vegetation under a clear blue sky.

Visit Montezuma Well

Drive 15 minutes to Montezuma Well and walk the short trail to see this unique limestone sinkhole.

Midday

Dine and Drive

Stream flowing through autumnal Cottonwood, sunlight filtering through trees.

Cottonwood

On your way to Tuzigoot National Monument, grab some lunch in Cottonwood at Crema Craft Kitchen or Colt Grill, both offering delicious southwestern flavors and local charm.

Late Afternoon

Tuzigoot National Monument

Tuzigoot ruins with lush green surroundings.

Get oriented

Check out exhibits, bookstore, and preserved cultural artifacts at the Tuzigoot National Monument Visitor Center. Don't forget to earn your Junior Ranger badge!

Tuzigoot ruins under a clear blue sky.

Take a stroll

Walk the .5-mile Tuzigoot trail and climb to the top of the restored 110-room pueblo for breathtaking views of the Verde River valley.

Tavasci marsh with tall grasses, mountains, and cloudy sky.

See Tavasci Marsh

Take the Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail for a peaceful view of the lush wetland ecosystem below.

Curving road to Jerome alongside green hills under a clear blue sky.
Optional add-on

Visit Jerome

Visit historic Jerome, a quirky mining town perched on a hillside with great views, art galleries, and wineries.

Visit Smart

Check your routes

GPS navigation may not provide the best way to navigate to the parks. Visit the park websites for the most accurate routes.

Gear up

Dress in layers and bring lots of water. Temperatures can range in this unique Arizona environment.

Be wildlife aware

Be mindful of rattlesnakes. If you see one, give it space.

Leave no trace

Both Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot are dedicated to preserving Indigenous cultural heritage. Visit with respect to the landscape and the people who continue to hold it sacred.

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