Parks / Hovenweep National Monument
Hovenweep National Monument
National Monument · CO,UT
Hovenweep preserves six prehistoric sites built between 1200 and 1300 CE which may have served as ceremonial centers. 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.
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (2)
Voicemail not functioning
The voicemail for the main park phone line (970-562-4282) is not functioning reliably. People are advised to call during business hours in order to speak with a ranger.
Hovenweep has gone cashless
The park now accepts only mobile or electronic payments for entrance & camping fees. You can reserve campsites and buy entrance passes on Recreation.gov, or only use debit/credit cards to pay in person.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees (or valid park pass) are required to visit beyond the visitor center and/or camp overnight. Entrance fees are good for 7 days from date of purchase.
Campgrounds (1)
Hovenweep Campground
A 31-site campground near the visitor center is open year-round and fully reservable through Recreation.gov. The campground is designed for tent camping, though a few sites will accommodate RVs up to 36 feet long. Groups are limited to eight people and two vehicles. Sites include tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables with shade structures; there are no hookups available. One campsite is wheelchair-accessible but is not designed for tent camping.
Details →Upcoming Events
International Observe the Moon Night
Sep 19, 2026
Things to Do
Hike the Holly Trail
The Holly Trail (8 miles, roundtrip) offers the chance to explore away from roads and busier trails and stretch your legs with a longer hike. Gain new perspective as you traverse a canyon floor, squeeze through slot canyons, and take the long way around. At the end, your reward is reaching the towering remains and petroglyphs at the Holly Group.
Hike the Square Tower Group Loop Trail
Explore the ancestral Pueblo world with a hike around the Square Tower Group. Follow the two-mile, primitive loop trail along the canyon rim to see the famous Square Tower, Hovenweep Castle, and eight other standing structures. A trail guide offers insight into the ancestral Puebloan lifestyle. Just steps from your vehicle, you can enjoy sweeping vistas and ancient dwellings.
Walk to the Square Tower Group Overlook
Take a paved trail to this canyon overlook and see what Hovenweep has to offer! Sweeping views of sage country and ancestral Puebloan structures are just yards away from the visitor center. This trail is perfect for any season or time of day and for anyone hoping to get a good view of Hovenweep without much time or distance.
Visitor Centers
- Hovenweep Visitor Center
Source: National Park Service.