Few People Know This Little-Known Canyon Is Hiding In Arizona…And You’ll Want To Find It
Want to do a bit of exploring this weekend? If you’re headed up to the northern stretches of the state, you’ll want to check out one little box canyon that sits a short distance from the highway but is just out of view so that visiting on a quiet day makes this area feel like a little oasis. Let’s take a look!
This is Keyhole Sink, a hidden little canyon that sits a short distance from Historic Route 66. A short hike will take you up to this little piece of paradise.
The name of this area comes from the box canyon's shape, which resembles a keyhole: a circular area that flares out. Because of this, the area serves as a watering hole for the local wildlife.
In addition to the lovely natural views, you'll also find some stunning petroglyphs covering parts of the basalt cliffs. Estimated to be about 1,000 years old, the petroglyphs depict the area as an ideal hunting grounds.
Keyhole Sink is located approximately 20 minutes from Williams and is accessible throughout the year. You can find directions and details about the area by visiting the U.S. Forest Service website. A hiking trail and description of the trail can be found on the Hiking Arizona website.
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
