Places To Go

The entrance to the Aztec Ruins National Monument visitor center.

NPS

Aztec Ruins National Monument Visitor Center

See Earl's house! The visitor center started as the home of pioneering archeologist Earl Morris. Here, you can receive an orientation to the archeological site, pick up a trail guide, and see beautiful 900-year old items such as pottery and jewelry in the museum. You can also watch the 15-minute video, Aztec Ruins: Footprints of the Past, to hear diverse perspectives from Pueblo people, Navajo tribal members, and archeologists. The visitor center is open 9:00am-5:00pm daily, except for on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

 

The Animas River.

S Hill/NPS

The Animas River

See the beautiful Animas River by following a paved trail through the picnic area to the river. The Animas River is 126 miles long and originates at Animas Forks northeast of Silverton at an elevation of 11,120 feet and flows southward to Farmington, NM where it joins with the San Juan River. The Old Spanish National Historic Trail traveled across the Animas River right near Aztec Ruins. The walk from the Picnic area to the Animas River is 1/2 mile.

 

Enjoy lunch at the park!

NPS Photo

Picnic Area

Enjoy a picnic under a tall, Cottonwood tree or under a shade structure. Practice fire safety when using grills. Do not leave fires unattended and ensure that they are extinhuished before leaving. Check fire restrictions before using. Dogs on leashes are allowed in this area. The picnic area also leads to the Native Plant walk and the Old Spanish Historic Trail to the Animas River.

 

The historic Aztec Museum located in downtown Aztec, New Mexico.

Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village

Historic Downtown Aztec

Aztec's Main Avenue was designated as a Historic District by the state in 1982 and added to the National Register in 1985. The Main Avenue is a short drive from Aztec Ruins or a 1 1/2 mile walk using the Old Spanish Trail starting from the park's picnic area.

 

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

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Outliers

There are several other outlying great houses that are open to the public in the Four Corners region. Some of these are at other National Park Service units, while others are owned and protected by other entities. Check out a list of what's nearby.