Twin Arrows Trading Post

The Twin Arrows Trading Post is an abandoned roadside attraction, not a park or recreational area. Therefore, there are no formal trails or designated walking paths. Visitors typically explore the immediate grounds around the structures and the iconic arrows. The terrain is uneven and can be dusty or muddy depending on recent weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, the land where the Twin Arrows Trading Post is located is owned by the state of Arizona and is considered Arizona State Trust Land. While the structures themselves are owned by the Hopi tribe, visitors exploring the site should obtain an Arizona State Trust Land permit. These permits are typically inexpensive and can be purchased online through the Arizona State Land Department website. This helps ensure legal access and supports the management of these lands.

Parking at Twin Arrows Trading Post is informal. There isn't a designated parking lot, but visitors typically pull off the access road near the site. The area is unpaved, so be mindful of your vehicle's clearance, especially after heavy rain. It's generally easy to find a spot, as it's not a high-traffic destination.

The Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort, located on the north side of I-40, is a modern facility that offers a range of amenities. These typically include a casino, multiple dining options (restaurants and cafes), a hotel for accommodation, and sometimes a gift shop. It provides a stark contrast to the historic trading post and can be a convenient stop for food, restrooms, or lodging.

There are no cafes, pubs, or accommodations directly at or immediately adjacent to the abandoned Twin Arrows Trading Post. The closest modern facilities for food, drinks, and lodging would be at the Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort on the opposite side of I-40, or further afield in Flagstaff, which is about 25 miles to the west.

Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the Twin Arrows Trading Post. This allows enough time to walk around the structures, photograph the iconic arrows, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic Route 66 relic. It's a place for reflection rather than extensive activity.

Twin Arrows Trading Post can be an interesting stop for families, especially those interested in history or photography. However, parents should be aware that the site is abandoned, with dilapidated structures and graffiti, so caution is advised. There are no restrooms or facilities. For dogs, it is generally dog-friendly as it's an open, outdoor space, but pets should be kept on a leash, and owners must clean up after them. Be sure to bring water for everyone, especially on warmer days.

Accessibility for wheelchairs or those with mobility challenges at Twin Arrows Trading Post is limited. The site is unpaved, with uneven ground, gravel, and potentially sandy or muddy patches. There are no ramps or accessible pathways. Visitors would need to navigate directly over the natural terrain, which may pose difficulties for wheelchairs or strollers.

Located in Coconino County, Arizona, the weather at Twin Arrows Trading Post can vary significantly. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snow. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions. It's advisable to wear layers, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen regardless of the season. Always carry plenty of water, as there are no facilities on site.

While Twin Arrows Trading Post itself is a man-made monument, the surrounding area of Coconino County is rich in natural and historical sites. Nearby geological features include Canyon Padre, a significant canyon that gave the trading post its original name. For other hidden gems, exploring the remnants of other abandoned Route 66 stops or venturing into the vast landscapes of the Coconino National Forest can reveal unique natural beauty and historical points of interest.

Both Twin Arrows Trading Post and Two Guns, Arizona, are iconic, abandoned Route 66 sites with a rich history, but they offer different experiences. Twin Arrows is primarily known for its distinctive wooden arrows and the remnants of a single trading post. Two Guns, on the other hand, is a larger, more complex ghost town with ruins of a gas station, a zoo, a KOA campground, and a historic bridge over Canyon Diablo, offering a more extensive area for exploration and a darker history. Both are compelling for history buffs and photographers, but Two Guns provides a broader range of structures and stories.