Navajo Nation Recreational Activities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and camping. If you love the outdoors, this is the place for your next adventure! Not only that, but AB Staffing has a variety of travel nurse job opportunities in the 27,000+ square mile area.
Navajo Nation Recreational Activities: Hiking the Navajo Nation
First things first. If you’ve never explored the Southwest, you’re going to be blown away by the landscape, even if you’re just out for a Sunday drive. Second, if you’ve got an ounce of willingness to go hiking, do it! There are trails for all levels of hikers, from dusty walking trails to slot canyons, to rock climbing, and everything in between.
The most popular trails are located in and around Monument Valley, Tribal Park, Canyon de Chelly, Bisti Badlands, Churchrock Pyramid, Rainbow Bridge, and Window Rock.
We caution you to be careful and recommend not going off-trail, especially in the spring and summer when the weather can heat to temperatures over 100 degrees. If you’re not from a dry, arid region, the weather and sun can land you in the hospital as a patient. Wear a hat and hiking boots. Use sunscreen. Bring water and snacks. We recommend carrying a backpack with a water bladder, bottled sports drink or packets of electrolytes, and protein bars as you blaze the trails. You can never be too careful and you will likely dehydrate faster than normal because of the relative lack of humidity.
If you’re a hiker that loves to take photos, even better! This is a great place to practice your photography skills while enjoying the outdoors.
Antelope Canyon is among the most popular places to not only hike but to photograph. If you’re interested in learning about photographing this area, we recommend taking one of the classes that are offered. Utah.com has a variety of tips and links for hiking, boating, fishing, and camping in and around Antelope Canyon, Page, and nearby Lake Powell. The trick is to plan ahead if you’re looking to overnight or take photography classes as these can both get booked, especially in the spring and early fall.
- Simpson’s Trailhandler Tours offers jeep rides, and hiking and camping tours in and around Monument Valley. If you’re new to the area, it might be good to start with a guide to get your lay of the land before venturing out on your own.
- Roy Black’s Tours is owned by a Navajo family which means visitors not only have their choice of guided horse or jeep tours, but you get to hear traditional stories.
Navajo Nation Recreational Activities includes 20 lakes, not including Lake Powell, where casual fishing is encouraged.
While some places are easier to reach and navigate than others, all fishing requires a Navajo fishing permit. Visit Navajo Nation Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.nndfw.org for more information. If you’re thinking of bringing a small watercraft, be sure to check if you’re allowed and what type of permit you may need.
As visitors to the Navajo Nation, it is important to respect the culture and laws. Once you’ve gotten maps and permits, we encourage you to enjoy your time in nature and away from work.
Experience amazing adventures yourself. See our list of Navajo Nation job opportunities.
