For November’s Heritage Spotlight, we’re recognizing Native American Heritage Month by highlighting Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico, USA. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the ruins of a once-thriving Indigenous civilization, a place of ceremony, trade, astronomy, and community that was ahead of its time.

Why It’s Special

Between 850 and 1250 CE, Chaco Canyon was one of the most advanced cultural centers in North America. Massive stone buildings, aligned with the sun and moon, were built without modern tools. Roads stretched across the desert to connect outlying communities. And the people who lived there (ancestors of today’s Pueblo, Hopi, and Navajo peoples) left behind knowledge that’s still studied and respected today.

Chaco isn’t just a historical site. For many Native communities, it’s a living cultural and spiritual place. Visiting with that awareness and respect makes all the difference.

Things to Check Out

• Pueblo Bonito: The largest great house, with over 600 rooms and four stories
• Fajada Butte: A sacred site and ancient solar calendar used to mark solstices and equinoxes
• The Great Kiva at Casa Rinconada: A ceremonial space used for spiritual gatherings
• Night skies: Chaco is one of the best stargazing spots in the U.S., and astronomy was a huge part of the culture here

Planning Your Visit

Chaco is remote. It’s about three hours from Albuquerque, and part of the road is unpaved but worth it. November is cooler and less crowded. Bring water, sun protection, and take time to learn from park rangers and Native voices when you can.