Summer Solstice Observation
This event has already occurred. This page is provided for reference only.
Special Event
Aztec Ruins National Monument will be hosting a summer solstice sunrise observation on Friday, June 20th. Visitors will be able to observe the sun rising in alignment with the north wall of the Aztec West great house just before 6:00am. After this, visitors will be invited to enter the Great Kiva to observe a shaft of sunlight shine through a doorway on the east side of the kiva as it travels across the west wall and aligns directly with a niche in the wall. Mr. Travis Jensen will be playing the flute inside the Great Kiva during the observation.
Park staff will open the park entrance gate at 5:30am. Visitors should park in the visitor center parking lot, and staff will direct them into the site. The park grounds will remain open after the event.
This event is free of charge and does not require reservations. Please call (505) 334-6174 with any questions.
This event is made possible by the Chaco Culture Conservancy (CCC). The Conservancy is a New Mexico nonprofit 501©(3) corporation created to assist and support Aztec Ruins National Monument and Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
Fees
This event is free to attend.
Location
Visitors will meet in the picnic area prior to being escorted to the north wall for the observation.
Latitude and Longitude 36.834333, -107.999635
Schedule
Date:
Jun 20, 2025
Time:
5:30 AM
Duration:
1 hour and 30 minutes
Park staff will open the park entrance gate at 5:30am. Visitors should park in the visitor center parking lot, and staff will direct them into the site. The park grounds will remain open after the event.
Contact Information
Nathan Hatfield
505-334-6174
Contact Us
Event Type
- Cultural/Craft Demonstration
- Other
- Talk