Keet Seel Trail

Important Information:

Difficulty: Difficult
Length, Round Trip: 17 Miles (28.33 Kilometers)

General Description:
Keet Seel is a strenuous hike to the Keet Seel cliff dwellings. Backcountry permits are required for both day and overnight hikers, with a limit of 20 hikers per day. Permits are available by calling (928) 672-2700, or mailing a letter two months prior to your visit. Call to confirm your reservation 7 days before your visit or your reservation may be canceled. Organized groups are limited to 10 hikers per day. Those without reservations may call six days prior to the day they wish to hike. Permits from cancellations will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.

The hike to Keet Seel is unguided with mileage markers and white guideposts. An orientation is mandatory and permits will only be given at the orientation. Orientation times are at 8:15 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Hikers must be on the trail by 9:15 a.m. Two gallons of water are needed for overnight hikers. There is no water available for the entire 17-mile hike.

Upon reaching Keet Seel, a ranger will lead an interpretive tour of the dwellings. Visitors are allowed into Keet Seel only with the Navajo National Monument backcountry ranger. Only five visitors are allowed on each tour with day hikers having first priority.

Camping at Keet Seel is available for backpackers at a primitive campground, 1/4 mile from the ruins. Compost toilets are available and no campfires are allowed. Occasionally a permit may be obtained by arriving at 8:00 a.m. on the day of your choice and inquiring as to the availability of permits.