Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is located in Ganado, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation Reservation. It is a fascinating historical site that provides an insight into the trading practices and cultural exchange between the Native American tribes and European settlers.

Established in 1878 by John Lorenzo Hubbell, a compassionate trader, the Hubbell Trading Post became a vital hub for the Navajo people. The trading post served as a place where Native Americans traded their goods, such as wool, blankets, and jewelry, for other essential items like food, tools, and cloth. The unique aspect of Hubbell Trading Post was its commitment to fair trade, which garnered trust and respect from the local tribes.

Today, Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site preserves this rich history and presents visitors with an authentic trading post experience. The site houses original structures, including the trading post, the family home of the Hubbells, a barn, and a blacksmith shop. These buildings provide a glimpse into the daily life of the trading post during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the trading practices and see the collection of artifacts, household items, and artwork that illustrate the cultural exchange that took place at the post. They can also witness traditional Navajo weaving demonstrations, where skilled weavers bring the ancient art of Navajo rug-making to life.

Aside from exploring the trading post, there are other attractions nearby for visitors to enjoy. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located approximately 23 miles away, offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through magnificent sandstone cliffs. The Monument also showcases ancient cliff dwellings and pictographs, providing a unique glimpse into the history of the Navajo people.

Ganado is also home to the Navajo Nation Museum, which exhibits an extensive collection of Navajo artifacts, artworks, and historical objects. It offers valuable insights into the Navajo culture, traditions, and history.

In summary, Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site in Arizona offers a unique opportunity to delve into the trading practices and cultural exchange between Native Americans and European settlers. The preserved buildings and impressive collection of artifacts provide visitors with an immersive experience. With attractions like Canyon de Chelly National Monument and the Navajo Nation Museum located nearby, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and culture of the Navajo people.

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is nestled within the northeastern region of Arizona, United States. Situated close to the border of New Mexico, this historic site lies within the expansive Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the country. Surrounded by vast stretches of rugged desert landscapes and adorned with stunning red sandstone cliffs, the site is a true testament to the natural beauty of the region. Located within the heart of the Chinle Valley, Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing the intersection between the Navajo people and the Anglo-American traders who settled here in the late 1800s.

Address & Contact

1/2 mile west of Hwy 191/264
Ganado, AZ 86505-0150
Driving Directions
Phone: 9287553475
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is in April or May. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 66°F to 73°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, around 0.3 inches in April and 0.6 inches in May. These months offer a balance between comfortable temperatures and manageable crowd sizes, allowing visitors to enjoy the site without the large crowds commonly seen in the summer months.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture

Topics

Learn about these topics at Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site: Architecture and Building Native American Heritage Commerce Trade

Visitor Centers

Hubbell Trading Post NHS Visitor Center

The visitor center is located east of the trading post. Interpretive exhibits on Hubbell family, the Long Walk, weaving, and a children's trading post are located inside. Ask for brochures and other informational leaflets. Guided tour tickets for the Hubbell Home are available. An interactive video, and viewing of 1-2 minutes snapshots of different videos that are for sell at the trading post are all available inside.

Campsites within or near Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

Holiday Inn Canyon De Chelly, an IHG Hotel

Located in Chinle, Holiday Inn Canyon De Chelly, an IHG Hotel is in a national park, a 1-minute drive from Canyon De Chelly National Monument and 9 minutes from Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Chinle? This hotel has facilities measuring 240 square feet (22 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: Bia Route 7-Garcia Trading Post, Chinle, Arizona 86503
Web: Link

Quality Inn Navajo Nation Capital

With a stay at Quality Inn Navajo Nation Capital, you'll be centrally located in Window Rock, just a 5-minute walk from Navajo Nation Zoo and Botanical Park and 7 minutes by foot from Navajo Nation Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 48 W Highway 264, Window Rock, New Mexico 86515
Web: Link

Navajoland Inn

Located in St. Michaels, Navajoland Inn is within a 10-minute drive of Navajo Nation Zoo and Botanical Park and Navajo Nation Museum. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Planning an event in St. Michaels? This hotel has 1200 square feet (111 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 392 W. Hwy 264, St. Michaels, Arizona 86511
Web: Link

Thunderbird Lodge

Located in Chinle, Thunderbird Lodge is in a national park, within a 15-minute drive of Canyon De Chelly National Monument and White House Overlook and Trail. Featured amenities include a business center and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: Route 7, Chinle, Arizona 86503
Web: Link