White House Overlook — Local services in Chinle Agency

This overlook has a great view of the major prehistoric ruins in the National Monument. Be sure to visit this overlook (although all the overlooks are great). An evening visit is cooler and the angling shadows are intriguing.

There is a public access trail (the only one) down to the canyon floor from this overlook. It's 1 and 1/2 miles, a short hike down but a long hike back up. I suspect it's a challenge on a hot day - we didn't try it).

In talking with an older Navajo lady selling souvenirs down in the canyon, I learned that she hiked this trail every day. Something to consider when deciding whether or not to purchase one of...

The only trail allowed down into the canyon and its worth the hike. Very beautiful. We did it in the morning around 9 am and it got hot on the way up so Id recommend to go early. Took about 2 hours for hike and seeing the ruins. 500-600 foot descent with nice gradual switchbacks. Also has benches along the way if you need a rest. Bring water. There is none there but there are portapotties at the ruin. One confusing point is at the bottom you follow the canyon road west. If you start going east you will see a sign saying you can go no further without a guide. Just go...

I can’t find out why this overlook is closed. The visitors center staff told me that the site needs repair but the site is in excellent condition (strange). In the past, it was the only trail that allowed visitors to enter the canyon without a guide. Currently (March ‘22 ) no one can enter canyon without a guide. Maybe closing this “Overlook” was a plan to employ more guides? DO NOT LEAVE ANYTHING VALUABLE IN YOUR CAR AT ANY OVERLOOK, lots of theft...