Mule Canyon Ruins + Kiva

Mule Canyon Ruin is located just a stroll from the parking lot down a paved, ADA accessible pathway. The ruins straddle the border of Bears Ears National Monument and the Mule Canyon Wilderness Study Area. While in the area be sure to check out the other well known ruins including Butler Wash and House on Fire.

The ruin is an open Anasazi habitation site that consists of both above and below ground structures. It was mainly occupied from 1000 - 1150 A.D., but may have been built and briefly occupied as early as 750 A.D. There was a block of 12 rooms, 2 kivas and a tower that were interconnected by crawlways. It is unknown what the tower (likely two stories high) was used for.

The main underground kiva was a focal point for ceremonial activities, and would’ve been roofed with logs, then covered with earth. Today this kiva has been restored and is the highlight of the ruins here. Please use caution if climbing down into the kiva.