Palatki Heritage Site
Palatki Heritage Site is one of the largest cliff dwellings of Red Rock Country dating between C.E. 1150 - 1350
Hidden among Sedona's stunning red canyon cliffs lies Palatki Heritage Site, one of the region's most significant archaeological treasures. This remarkably preserved cliff dwelling, inhabited between 1150 and 1350 CE, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into ancient cultures that called these red rock canyons home for thousands of years.
Managed by the Coconino National Forest's Red Rock Ranger District, Palatki stands as one of the largest cliff dwellings in the Red Rock area, featuring extraordinary pictographs sheltered within colorful canyon walls at an elevation of 4,722 feet.
A Window into Ancient History
The name "Palatki," meaning "Red House" in the Hopi language, was given to the site in 1895 by Smithsonian archaeologist Dr. Jesse Walter Fewkes, who first photographed the dwelling for the Smithsonian Institute. This protected heritage site showcases not only the impressive cliff dwelling itself but also an extraordinary collection of rock art, including pictographs and petroglyphs that tell the stories of multiple cultures who used these sheltered spaces across millennia.
The Guided Experience
Visiting Palatki requires advance reservations and participation in guided tours limited to just 14 people, ensuring an intimate and educational experience. During the 75-minute tour, knowledgeable Forest Service guides bring the site's history to life, leading visitors through both the ancient cliff dwellings and the remarkable rock art gallery. The experience includes navigating 60 uneven stone steps to reach the dwelling areas, making it an adventure suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Visitors are encouraged to review the archaeological site etiquette guide before arrival to help preserve this irreplaceable cultural treasure.
Planning Your Visit
Important Requirements:
- Advance reservations through Recreation.gov with pre-selected time slots
- Valid Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
- Physical capability to navigate 60 uneven, strenuous steps
Weather Considerations:
The site closes when temperatures exceed 100°F, and may also close after substantial rain or snow when access roads become impassable.
Location & Access:
Located 13 miles northwest of Sedona, Palatki requires a 30-minute drive on rough gravel roads accessible to passenger cars during dry conditions. Three main routes are available:
- Via State Route 89A: Through West Sedona, continuing 5 miles past the last traffic light to Forest Road 525, then north 5 miles to Forest Road 795
- Via Boynton Pass Road: Through west Sedona on SR 89A to Dry Creek Road, then Boynton Pass Road with 3 miles of gravel road
- Via Cottonwood: North on SR 89A, then 7 miles on dirt roads (FR 525 to FR 795)
Operating Hours:
September - May:
- 9:30 AM - 3 PM daily except Wednesdays. Last tour starts at 2 PM.
- Wednesdays: 9:30 AM - 12 PM. Last tour starts at 11 AM.
- Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
June, July, August:
- Open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
- 8:30 AM - 12 PM. Last tour starts at 11 AM
- Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Reservations & Contact Information:
To make a reservation, please visit recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.
For trail and road conditions, call the Red Rock Ranger District Information Center at (928) 203-7500.
Visitors may also contact the Palatki Heritage Site Visitor Center at (928) 282-3854.
Facilities:
A small visitor center and bookstore operated by the Arizona Natural History Association is located near the parking area. Note that pets are not permitted beyond the parking lot, and potable water is not available on-site.
Palatki Heritage Site offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with ancient Southwest cultures while surrounded by some of Arizona's most breathtaking red rock scenery.
