Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona

on a 4-Star Scale

The Monument Montezuma Castle NM protects a well-preserved ancient Sinagua Indian ruin in the side of a rock wall off I-17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona.

Our Visit We visited Montezuma Castle as part of our 8-Park Southwest tour in March 2004.  In one day, we were able to see three ruins sites at Casa Grande Ruins NM, Tuzigoot NM and Montezuma Castle.

Our Weather Hazy but nice--around 80 degrees

Overall Impression Montezuma Castle is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.  The ruins are striking because they are set 100 feet high on a cliff and are so well preserved.  Their location alongside a stream with trees all around makes this Monument a good place to retreat from the hot Arizona sun. 

Visiting Plan on spending at least 1 hour here.  In that time, you can walk through the museum and take the leisurely stroll to view the ruins.  You can't get close to the main ruins, but there are some other ruins closer to the valley floor.  There are rangers on the trail who tell what is known of the history of the Indians in this area.  If you have additional time, you can drive to Montezuma Well or nearby Tuzigoot NM.  Be sure to check the closing time, though, because the visitor center closes well before sunset, even during peak Arizona tourist months.

Other Nearby Attractions Sedona, AZ, Tuzigoot NM

Photos Click on thumbnails to view larger image

The ruins at Montezuma Castle are very well preserved

The ruins lie near a stream with wooded banks making this a great place to seek shade in the hot Arizona summer

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