While you’re visiting Sedona, Arizona don’t miss your opportunity to look into the past and experience the wonders of the ancient ruins that surround Sedona and the Verde Valley. I would suggest starting with the Palatki Heritage Site located on Forest Road 795 in Sedona.
My favorite thing about visiting the Palatki site would have to be the hiking trails. Two trails let you go off exploring the ruins; both of them are a half mile round hikes making it easy to enjoy all the site has to off
er. The trail that leads up to the Sinagua cliff dwellings is a little bit challenging. You have to go up about 50 steps of uneven rock. If you have the physical ability to make it up it will be worth it. You will be treated to an up close and personal view of the dwellings. I think I took about 100 photos!
The other trail that leads you to the pictographs is less challenging and I thought a fairly nice easy hike. To see the pictographs on the red cliffs of the canyon was definitely cool. I highly suggest taking both trails and letting yourself be overwhelmed by the history and beauty of the canyon. For more information visit Palatki Heritage Site.
Tips
- Red Rock Passes are needed to park at this cultural site and are available for purchase at the site during operating hours.
- The dirt road to the Palatki Heritage Site will be closed when there are heavy rains or snow. There will be a closed sign at the entrance to the road if this occurs. Obey the sign!
- This is a very popular cultural site, the Forest Service manages the number of guest at the site and reservations are advised.
- Please take the time to read “Archaeological Site Etiquette Guide” before visiting.
- There are no pets allowed past the parking area.
- Make sure to bring water, wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses & sunscreen. Bring your camera, there are plenty of great photo shots on the trails.
There are also some Sedona touring companies that will take you on an archeology adventure in Sedona. A Day in the West offers the tour Rock Art Expedition, that has you traveling back in time with a journey into a sacred red rock canyon, where symbols and images bear witness to long lost cultures of the southwest.
