Hovenweep National Monument


Once home to over 2,500 people, Hovenweep includes six prehistoric villages built between A.D. 1200 and 1300. Explore a variety of structures, including multistory towers perched on canyon rims and balanced on boulders. The construction and attention to detail will leave you marveling at the skill and motivation of the builders.

Do not use GPS to find your way. There are numerous paved and dirt roads intersecting each other in this remote corner of Utah. The Hovenweep Visitor Center is located 40-45 miles from Cortez, Colorado, and Blanding and Bluff, Utah. Follow driving directions on our webpage.

  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Camping
  • Hiking
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Park Film
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store

  • Archeology
  • Cliff Dwellings
  • Native American Heritage
  • Animals

Milky Way at Square Tower Group

a stone structure at night with the Milky Way arcing overhead

Hovenweep National Monument was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2014.

Claretcup Cactus

a bright red cactus flower

Claretcup Cactus is a common plant at Hovenweep National Monument

Stronghold House

a stone structure resting on a cliff edge

Stronghole House is one of several structures at the Square Tower Group

Cajon Unit

a stone structure with blue sky and clouds overhead

The Cajon Unit is one of several outlying units at Hovenweep National Monument.

Collared Lizard

a green lizard with yellow head, yellow spots and black collar

Collard lizards are one of many species that call Hovenweep home.

Holly Group

remains of a stone structure with wood beams on the edge of a canyon

The Holly Group is one of Hovenweep's outlying sites, but worth the drive or hike.