Located in northeastern Arizona, Canyon de Chelly (pronounced "Canyon d'Shay") is unique among National Park service units, as it consists entirely of Navajo Tribal Trust Land that remains home to the Navajo community.

Access to the canyon floor is restricted and visitors are allowed to travel in the canyons only when accompanied by a park ranger or an authorized Navajo guide. The only exception to this rule is the White House Ruin Trail.

Most park visitors arrive by automobile and view Canyon de Chelly from the rim, following both North Rim Drive and South Rim Drive. Ancient ruins and geologic structures are visible, but in the distance, from turnoffs on each of these routes. Tours of the canyon floor can be booked at the visitor center.