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Great place to hike/walk paved trails. Very close to Flagstaff. The Sinagua Indian ruins are cool too. Lots of cool plants that are labeled so you know what you're looking at. The entrance fee of $25 per car is pretty steep considering what you see at other parks but it's nice. Definitely buy one of the US national park passes if you're also going to the grand canyon. Probably should have thought about it but just wanted to take pics in the snow.
A must visit! $25 parking fee for the Island Trail and the Rim Trail. The island trail is a 0.9-mile round trip, and it has spectacular views, but going back has a steep stairs(273 steps). Rim Trail is a 0.73-mile round trip, most flat and paved.
Beautiful Island walked into history to see how native people lived in the cliff side. Island tour is a steep one mile loop walk that is paved as an easy hike but NOT all ability.
Beautiful scenery with great geological exposure
Great spot to see some of the historical dwellings in the region, built in the canyon where the rocks have been undercut by water, forming a natural ceiling.
The visitor center is small, but the 20 minute film is good and the rangers are helpful.
There are 2 trails from the visitor center, a 1 mile trail that drops into the canyon where you are right next to the dwellings (Island trail), and a shorter trail that stays on the rim. The island trail has excellent interpretive signs about the history, geology, and plants.
This was a very cool experience! I rarely rate things 5 stars but this was worth it. Note, the walk around the island was long and there's no external railing, which can be scary for people scared of heights. It is also a long climb out, so bring water and take your time. But totally worth the trek if you're physically able.
