SAN JUAN HAPPENINGS - October 2024

Utah’s Canyon Country is a region rich in Native American history and culture, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in rich traditions, art and spiritual heritage. Whether you’re an avid history buff or simply curious about the diverse cultures that have shaped this region, here are the top five ways to discover Native American culture in Utah’s Canyon Country.

1. Explore Bears Ears National Monument
Bears Ears National Monument is home to thousands of archaeological sites, many of which are sacred to Native American tribes like the Navajo, Ute, Hopi and more. The monument’s landscapes are dotted with cliff dwellings, petroglyphs and pottery shards that tell the stories of the people who lived here centuries ago. A guided tour with a local indigenous guide, such as Ancient Wayves River & Hiking Adventures, provides deeper insights into the significance of these sites and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

2. Visit Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
Located in Blanding, Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Ancestral Pueblo pottery in the region. The museum itself is built next to an authentic Pueblo village, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, explore a kiva and view exhibits that showcase the artistry and daily life of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

3. Explore Native Art
Utah’s Canyon Country is filled with talented Native American artisans and stunning local art. Visit local trading posts, such as Twin Rocks Trading Post in Bluff, to shop for locally made baskets, rugs, jewelry and much more. The annual Bluff Arts Festival, held every October, also features workshops and demonstrations that highlight Native American arts.

4. Discover Monument Valley
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, and it’s also a place deeply intertwined with Navajo culture. Guided tours led by Native American guides provide an in-depth look at the park’s stunning scenery while sharing stories and the cultural significance of the valley’s unique rock formations.

5. Experience Native American Cuisine
No cultural exploration is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Many eateries in Utah’s Canyon Country, such as Homestead Steak House in Blanding and Twin Rocks Café in Bluff, offer traditional Navajo dishes such as fry bread, Navajo Tacos, and more. These dishes are not only delicious but also provide a taste of the rich culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Whether through exploring ancient structures, exploring traditional arts or sampling indigenous foods, you can gain a deeper appreciation of the history and heritage that make this region so unique.