Visitors to Aztec Ruins National Monument are in for an intimate look at the massive ancient Puebloan great house known as West Ruin. A self-guided tour leads travelers on a winding half-mile trail through blocks of rooms where they'll discover well-preserved original wood roofing, skillful stone masonry, mysterious T-shaped doors, and even a reed mat left behind by an early inhabitant.
At the end of the trail, visitors descend into the Great Kiva, a fascinating 40-foot semi-subterranean structure that served as the center of social and religious life for the ancient Puebloans. Rangers offer interpretive guided walks for those who'd like a more in-depth overview of the archeological findings and the Puebloan people, as well as demonstrations of traditional American Indian crafts. Visitors should stop by the visitor center to see a variety of artifacts excavated from the ancient ruins.
