The Hopi people, whose ancestors have resided in Northwestern Arizona for millennia, are a Native American tribe deeply rooted in their ancestral lands and traditions. The very name "Hopi" is believed to translate to "peaceful person," a reflection of their core values and way of life. Their connection to the land, their rich cultural heritage, and their profound spiritual beliefs make the Hopi Reservation a unique and compelling destination for those seeking an authentic experience of Native American culture.
The Land and its Significance
The Hopi inhabit an area known as the Black Mesa, a high plateau that rises dramatically above the surrounding grasslands. They consider this elevated landscape the "Center of the Universe," a testament to its spiritual and practical importance in their lives. The Hopi Reservation is divided into three distinct levels, known as First Mesa, Second Mesa, and Third Mesa, each with its own unique character and villages.
Spanning approximately 1.5 million acres in Northern Arizona, the Hopi Reservation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. At elevations reaching up to 7,200 feet, the mesas provide a cooler climate and a vantage point from which to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the region. A visit to the Hopi Reservation offers a journey through history, culture, art, and culinary traditions, providing a rich and immersive experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Hopi Reservation is Oraibi, located on Third Mesa. This westernmost Hopi Pueblo holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States, with a history stretching back over 1,100 years. The village’s multi-level architecture, constructed by stacking rooms around a central courtyard, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Hopi people.
To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the Hopi culture and the significance of their lands, it is highly recommended to explore all three mesas with a knowledgeable guide. Many areas within the reservation are restricted to non-tribal members without proper authorization, making a guided tour essential for a respectful and insightful visit.
First Mesa: A Journey Through History
First Mesa is home to several villages, each with its own unique character and history. Polacca, located at the foot of the mesa, is a more modern settlement where many Hopi reside. While Polacca itself may not offer many attractions, it serves as a gateway to the more traditional villages atop the mesa.
A paved road winds its way up First Mesa, leading to the villages of Sichomovi and Hano. Hano, also known as Hanoki, is a unique village inhabited by the Tewa, a Pueblo tribe who sought refuge here in the late 17th century after a revolt against the Spanish. The Hopi granted them sanctuary on the condition that they act as guardians of the access path to the mesa. Despite living in close proximity to the Hopi for centuries, the Tewa have maintained their distinct language and ceremonies.
Sichomovi, a Hopi village, is located adjacent to Hano, and to the casual observer, the two may appear as one. However, residents are well aware of the dividing line between the two communities.
Walpi, perched dramatically on the edge of First Mesa, is arguably one of the most inspiring places in Arizona. Its ancient houses, constructed from yellow stone, seem to grow directly from the mesa itself. Dating back to the 13th century, Walpi is renowned for its ceremonial dances and intricate crafts. Due to the village’s small size and the sensitivity of its residents, visitors are only permitted to enter with an authorized Hopi guide.
Walking from Sichomovi to Walpi, the mesa narrows to a mere 15 feet before widening again at the village. Unlike most other Hopi villages, Walpi lacks electricity and running water, requiring residents to walk to Sichomovi for water and washing facilities. The landscape is dotted with bowl-shaped depressions that once served as rainwater collectors.
Signs displayed outside homes in Walpi and other First Mesa villages indicate where visitors can purchase local crafts. Men typically carve kachina dolls, while women create pottery. While most kachina dances at First Mesa are closed to the public, visitors may have the opportunity to attend social dances.
The First Mesa Consolidated Villages office offers guided walking tours that provide an unforgettable experience. These tours offer insights into the history, culture, and contemporary life of the Hopi people. The artisans of First Mesa are renowned for their finely detailed polychrome pottery and intricately carved katsina dolls, which can be purchased directly from the artists in their home workshops.
Second Mesa: Culture and Commerce
Second Mesa is a hub of cultural and commercial activity. The junction of Highways AZ 264 and AZ 87 marks the foot of Second Mesa, offering convenient access to the area. LKD’s Diner provides a taste of local cuisine, serving Hopi tacos and tostadas, as well as Mexican and American fare.
Several galleries and shops on Second Mesa showcase the talents of Hopi artists. Hopi Fine Arts-Alph Secakuku gallery offers a variety of arts and crafts, while Honani Crafts Gallery is located near the turnoff for the villages of Shipaulovi and Mishongnovi.
Shipaulovi and Mishongnovi are neighboring villages located on an eastern projection of Second Mesa. Dances are frequently held in these villages. Shungopavi, the largest of the Second Mesa villages, also offers opportunities to witness traditional Hopi ceremonies.
Tsakurshovi, run by Joseph and Janice Day, is a treasure trove of information about visiting and shopping in the Hopi lands. Their shop offers an excellent selection of kachinas, basketry, music, and other art. Other notable galleries on Second Mesa include Hopi Silver Arts and Crafts and Iskasopu Gallery.
The Hopi Cultural Center Museum, located on Second Mesa, serves as the tourism headquarters for the area. This comprehensive complex includes a museum, motel, restaurant, and gift shop. The museum features exhibits on Hopi culture and crafts, along with historical photographs. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of Hopi, American, and Mexican dishes, including traditional Hopi specialties such as paatupsuki and noqkwivi.
The Sipaulovi Visitor Center offers a 20-minute video about Hopi culture and arranges guided walking tours of the village. Ponsi Hall Visitor Center also provides guided tours of the area.
Third Mesa: Ancient Traditions and Stunning Vistas
Third Mesa is home to Kykotsmovi, also known as New Oraibi, a settlement founded by Hopi from Old Oraibi. Kykotsmovi is the location of the Hopi Tribal Council offices and the Cultural Preservation Office, which provides information for visitors to the Hopi Indian Reservation.
Old Oraibi, perched on the edge of Third Mesa, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States, dating back to 1150. This historic village has faced challenges throughout the 20th century, including a major dispute in 1906 that led to the establishment of Hotevilla.
Hotevilla, founded in 1906, is known for its dances, basketry, and other crafts. Bacavi, another village on Third Mesa, was established by members of Old Oraibi who sought a new settlement.
Coal Mine Canyon, located northwest of Bacavi, offers stunning views of hoodoos and colorful cliffs. Hopi have traditionally obtained coal from a seam in the canyon.
Moenkopi, located near Tuba City, is a Hopi village with a unique history. Founded in the 1870s, Moenkopi has two sections, with only the upper village participating in the Hopi Tribal Council.
Dances and Ceremonies: A Window into Hopi Spirituality
The Hopi have developed intricate religious ceremonies that reflect their deep connection to the land and their spiritual beliefs. The masked kachina dances, held from January to July, are among the most famous Hopi ceremonies. However, many of these dances are closed to the non-Hopi public. Social dances, which are usually open to the public, are held from August through February.
Kachinas, whether in the form of dolls or masked dancers, represent the spirits of everything from plants and animals to ancestors and sacred places. These spirits are believed to reside in the San Francisco Peaks and at Spring of the Shadows.
The Snake Dance, a particularly captivating ceremony, involves the handling of both poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes. This ceremony, which is usually closed to the non-Hopi public, is held in August through December.
Exploring Beyond the Mesas
The areas surrounding the Hopi Reservation offer additional attractions and experiences. The Tuba City Trading Post, built in 1906, is a historic landmark that sells Native American crafts. The Explore Navajo Interactive Museum provides an introduction to Navajo culture.
Dinosaur footprints can be found west of Tuba City, offering a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. The Cameron Trading Post, located south of the junction of U.S. 160 and U.S. 89, is a popular destination with a variety of souvenirs, rugs, and jewelry.
Plan Your Visit
Visiting the Hopi Reservation is an opportunity to experience a unique and vibrant culture. By respecting the traditions and customs of the Hopi people, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of their rich heritage and their enduring connection to the land. Remember to check with the Hopi Cultural Preservation Office for the most up-to-date information on events and accessibility.