Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, Arizona: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Established in 1878, Hubbell Trading Post stands as America’s oldest continuously operating trading post, serving the Navajo Nation for over 145 years. This remarkable site offers visitors a rare glimpse into the past while still functioning as an active trading center today. Unlike most historic sites that merely preserve the past, Hubbell Trading Post continues its original purpose, with traders still bartering for handcrafted Navajo rugs, jewelry, and artwork just as they did in the 19th century. This living history makes it one of Arizona’s most authentic cultural experiences and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Native American heritage and the American Southwest.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is located in Ganado, Arizona, at milepost 446.3 on Arizona State Route 264. The site sits within the Navajo Nation, approximately 55 km (34 miles) northwest of Window Rock, the Navajo Nation capital.

The closest major airports to Hubbell Trading Post are:

• Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) – 177 km (110 miles)
• Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) – 282 km (175 miles)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – 386 km (240 miles)

From Interstate 40, take US Highway 191 north to Ganado, then drive west on Highway 264 for about 1.6 km (1 mile). The trading post will be on your right. If coming from Gallup, New Mexico, take US Highway 491 north to Highway 264 west toward Ganado.

Important note: The Navajo Nation observes Mountain Daylight Saving Time from March through November, while the rest of Arizona remains on Mountain Standard Time year-round. This means when it’s 13:00 in most of Arizona, it’s 14:00 at Hubbell Trading Post during these months.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The ideal time to visit Hubbell Trading Post is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate and comfortable for exploring the site. During these seasons, daytime temperatures typically range from 18-27°C (65-80°F), creating perfect conditions for walking the grounds and enjoying the outdoor areas.

Recommended Seasons:

• Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, wildflowers in bloom, and fewer crowds make this an excellent time to visit.
• Fall (September-October): Pleasant weather with cooling temperatures and beautiful desert colors create an ideal visiting experience.

Seasons to Avoid:

• Summer (June-August): Temperatures can soar above 32°C (90°F), making outdoor exploration uncomfortable, though the buildings are cooler inside.
• Winter (December-February): While crowds are minimal, temperatures can drop below freezing, and occasional snowfall may affect road conditions.

The trading post hosts special events throughout the year, including weaving demonstrations and cultural presentations. In December, don’t miss the annual Luminaria Night when over 700 luminarias illuminate the pathways and rooftops, creating a magical southwestern holiday experience.

Getting Around Locally

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is a compact 160-acre property that’s easily explored on foot. The main attractions—the trading post, visitor center, and Hubbell family home—are all within short walking distance of each other. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you’ll be traversing dirt and gravel paths between buildings.

The site has designated parking areas near the visitor center, with accessible parking spaces available. Once parked, you can explore the entire site without needing additional transportation.

For those exploring the broader region, a personal vehicle is essential as public transportation is extremely limited in this rural area. The trading post is approximately:

• 40 km (25 miles) from Canyon de Chelly National Monument
• 97 km (60 miles) from Petrified Forest National Park
• 84 km (52 miles) from Gallup, New Mexico

If you’re planning to explore multiple sites within the Navajo Nation, consider hiring a local guide who can provide cultural context and navigate the region’s remote areas. The visitor center staff can provide recommendations for reputable guides.

Where to Stay

There are no lodging facilities directly at Hubbell Trading Post, but several options are available in nearby communities:

Nearby Accommodations:

Camping Options:

The nearest camping facilities are at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, where the Cottonwood Campground offers basic sites with picnic tables and communal restrooms. For RV travelers, there are several RV parks in Gallup, New Mexico, about 84 km (52 miles) east of the trading post.

For an authentic experience, consider staying at a Navajo hogan (traditional dwelling) through a cultural homestay program. These unique accommodations provide insight into traditional Navajo life and often include cultural activities and traditional meals.

Dining & Local Cuisine

While Hubbell Trading Post has a small grocery section selling basic supplies, there are no dining facilities on-site. However, the surrounding area offers several options to experience authentic Navajo and southwestern cuisine:

Nearby Dining Options:

• Thunderbird Lodge Cafeteria (Chinle): Located at Canyon de Chelly, this restaurant serves traditional Navajo dishes including mutton stew, Navajo tacos, and fry bread.
• Junction Restaurant (Chinle): Offers American classics alongside Navajo specialties in a casual setting.
• Pizza Edge (Burnside): Located at the junction of Highways 191 and 264, this local favorite serves pizza with southwestern flavors.

Local Specialties to Try:

• Navajo Taco: Fry bread topped with beans, meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes
• Mutton Stew: Traditional Navajo dish with slow-cooked mutton and vegetables
• Blue Corn Mush: Traditional breakfast dish made from blue corn meal
• Kneel Down Bread: Traditional corn bread cooked in corn husks

For those planning a full day at the trading post, consider bringing a picnic lunch. The site has several shaded areas where visitors can rest and enjoy a meal while taking in the historic surroundings.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

At the Trading Post:

• Trading Post Store: Experience a functioning trading post where Navajo artisans still trade their handcrafted items. Browse an impressive collection of authentic Native American arts and crafts, including Navajo rugs, jewelry, pottery, and baskets.
• Hubbell Home Tour: Take a guided tour of the Hubbell family home for 5 USD per person (free for visitors 16 and under). The home contains an impressive collection of Southwestern art, Native American crafts, and period furnishings.
• Visitor Center: Watch Navajo rug weaving demonstrations and explore exhibits on the trading post’s history and the cultural exchange between the Hubbell family and the Navajo people.
• Historic Grounds: Explore the 160-acre homestead including the barn, guest hogan, bunkhouse, and garden. A self-guided tour booklet is available at the visitor center.

Special Experiences:

• Weaving Demonstrations: Watch skilled Navajo weavers create intricate rugs using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
• Cultural Talks: Seasonal ranger-led programs provide insights into Navajo culture, trading post history, and the significance of various crafts.
• Sheep is Life Workshops: Occasional workshops demonstrating the importance of sheep in Navajo culture, from wool processing to weaving.
• Visitor’s Loom: Try your hand at weaving on the visitor’s loom in the Visitor Center under the guidance of experienced weavers.

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the site, though those with a deeper interest in Native American arts or history may want to allow a half-day. The trading post and visitor center are accessible to wheelchair users, though some of the historic grounds may be difficult to navigate during wet weather.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

At Hubbell Trading Post:

• Visitor Center Museum: Exhibits detailing the history of trading posts, the Hubbell family, and their relationship with the Navajo people.
• Historic Home Collection: John Lorenzo Hubbell’s impressive collection of Southwestern art, Navajo textiles, and Native American crafts displayed in the family home.
• Luminaria Night: Each December, over 700 luminarias (paper lanterns) illuminate the trading post grounds, creating a magical southwestern holiday tradition.

Nearby Cultural Attractions:

• Navajo Nation Museum (Window Rock): 55 km (34 miles) east, featuring exhibits on Navajo history, culture, and contemporary art.
• Navajo Code Talkers Museum (Tuba City): 177 km (110 miles) west, honoring the Navajo marines who created an unbreakable code during World War II.
• Canyon de Chelly National Monument (Chinle): 40 km (25 miles) north, featuring ancient cliff dwellings and spectacular canyon views with deep cultural significance to the Navajo people.

Regional Festivals:

• Navajo Nation Fair (Window Rock): Held annually in September, this is the largest Native American fair in the United States, featuring rodeos, traditional dances, and arts exhibitions.
• Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial: Held in August in Gallup, New Mexico, this event celebrates Native American arts, culture, and traditions with parades, powwows, and art markets.
• Navajo Rug Auctions: Periodically held at various locations throughout the region, these auctions showcase exceptional Navajo weaving and provide opportunities to purchase authentic rugs directly from weavers.

For those interested in deeper cultural immersion, consider arranging a guided cultural tour through the visitor center. These tours, led by local Navajo guides, provide authentic insights into the rich heritage and traditions of the Navajo people.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

While Hubbell Trading Post itself is primarily a cultural and historical site, the surrounding region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature exploration:

Nearby Natural Attractions:

• Canyon de Chelly National Monument: 40 km (25 miles) north, offering spectacular canyon views, ancient cliff dwellings, and hiking opportunities. The White House Trail is the only self-guided hike into the canyon.
• Petrified Forest National Park: 97 km (60 miles) southwest, featuring colorful petrified wood, painted desert landscapes, and several hiking trails.
• Window Rock Tribal Park: 55 km (34 miles) east, home to the distinctive stone arch that gives the Navajo Nation capital its name.

Scenic Drives:

• Chuska Mountains Scenic Loop: A beautiful drive north on Highway 12 through the Chuska Mountains, connecting to NM-491 at Sheep Springs and returning to Gallup.
• Canyon de Chelly South Rim Drive: 64 km (40 miles) round trip with seven overlooks providing spectacular views of the canyon.

Hiking Trails:

• Spider Rock Overlook Trail: A short 0.6 km (0.4 mile) trail at Canyon de Chelly leading to views of the iconic 240 m (800 foot) Spider Rock spire.
• White House Trail: A 4 km (2.5 mile) round-trip trail descending 183 m (600 feet) into Canyon de Chelly to ancient ruins.
• Crystal Trail: Located in the Chuska Mountains, this moderate 6.4 km (4 mile) trail offers beautiful forest scenery and mountain views.

For those interested in photography, the region offers extraordinary opportunities to capture the dramatic landscapes, unique geological features, and cultural elements of the Navajo Nation. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for landscape photography.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

When visiting Hubbell Trading Post and the surrounding Navajo Nation, respecting local customs and traditions is essential:

Cultural Respect:

• Always ask permission before photographing Navajo people or their artwork.
• Listen more than you speak when interacting with elders or artisans.
• Dress modestly out of respect for traditional values.
• Some ceremonies or areas may be closed to non-Navajo visitors; always respect these boundaries.

Trading Post Etiquette:

• Bargaining is traditionally part of the trading post experience but should be done respectfully.
• Take time to learn about the crafts you’re interested in purchasing.
• Photography may be restricted in certain areas of the trading post; follow posted guidelines.
• Handle merchandise carefully, especially valuable rugs and artwork.

Safety Considerations:

• Carry plenty of water, as the desert climate can be deceptively dehydrating.
• Use sun protection including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Keep a full tank of gas, as service stations can be widely spaced in this rural area.
• Cell service may be limited; inform someone of your travel plans.
• Weather can change rapidly; be prepared for sudden temperature shifts.

Legal Considerations:

• The Navajo Nation is a sovereign territory with its own laws and regulations.
• Alcohol is prohibited throughout the Navajo Nation.
• Recreational drugs, including those legal in Arizona, are prohibited.
• Removal of artifacts, plants, or rocks from any site is strictly prohibited.

By approaching your visit with respect and cultural sensitivity, you’ll have a more meaningful experience and contribute positively to cultural preservation efforts within the Navajo Nation.

Visitor Comments About Hubbell Trading Post

Additional Nearby Destinations

Extend your journey through Navajo Nation and the surrounding region with these remarkable destinations:

For those planning a longer Southwest adventure, consider creating a loop that includes these additional destinations:

• Grand Canyon National Park: 290 km (180 miles) west
• Mesa Verde National Park: 257 km (160 miles) northeast
• Chaco Culture National Historical Park: 177 km (110 miles) east

Practical Travel Tips

Essential Information:

• Hours: Summer (May-October): 8:00-18:00 daily; Winter (October-May): 8:00-17:00 daily
• Closed: Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1
• Fees: No entrance fee for the trading post and visitor center; Hubbell Home tour: $5 per person (free for visitors 16 and under)
• Contact: (928) 755-3475

Visitor Recommendations:

• Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the site.
• Bring cash for purchases, as credit card service can be unreliable.
• Visit early in the day to avoid afternoon heat and have the best selection of artisan goods.
• The trading post is an active business—prices reflect the exceptional quality and cultural significance of the items.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

What to Bring:

• Water bottle (refill stations are available)
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Camera (ask permission before photographing people or their artwork)
• Light jacket or sweater (even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool)
• Snacks or a picnic lunch if you plan to stay for several hours

For Families:

• Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center for children.
• The weaving demonstrations are particularly engaging for children.
• The grounds provide space for children to move around between building tours.

Remember that you’re visiting not just a historic site but an active trading post within a sovereign Native Nation. Approaching your visit with respect, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity will enhance your experience and contribute positively to cultural preservation efforts.

A Living Bridge Between Cultures

Hubbell Trading Post stands as more than just a historic landmark—it’s a living bridge between cultures that continues to fulfill its original purpose after nearly a century and a half. Here, the past and present coexist in perfect harmony as traders still barter for handcrafted goods, weavers demonstrate ancient techniques, and visitors gain insight into the rich cultural exchange that shaped the American Southwest. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, this remarkable site offers an authentic experience that can’t be found anywhere else. As you plan your Arizona journey, make Hubbell Trading Post a priority stop—it’s not just a visit to the past, but an opportunity to participate in a living tradition that continues to thrive in the 21st century.