Hopi culture at the Grand Canyon

For almost 2000 years, the Hopi Indians have lived in the Four Corners area of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona.  They are descendants of the Ancient Puebloan and Basket Maker cultures.  They are also one of the oldest tribes of Native Americans in the United States.

During the summer months at the Grand Canyon you can find Hopi artisans demonstrating their silver work and basket making skills.  This is part of the National Park Service’s effort to display aspects of the Native American culture that existed at the Grand Canyon.  At least 13 tribes claim the Grand Canyon as part of their heritage.

In this photo, a Hopi man is showing the process of creating jewelry out of silver.  The Hopi style of jewelry typically involves cutting a design out of silver, oxidizing the bottom layer, and then overlaying the flat silver with the cut out.

Desert View Watchtower was completed in 1932 and was one of the areas where Native American culture could be demonstrated.  Since 2015 the Park Service has made efforts to once again have  displays and demonstrations of Native American culture.  This allows the park visitor to get a glimpse of the different aspects of Native American life. On the weekends you might get a glimpse of pottery making, rug weaving, or jewelry making.  Often the artisan has displays of their work that the park visitor can purchase.

You can also visit Hopi House and watch Native American dancers. Many people will never have the opportunity to witness this. It is fascinating to watch a Hopi dancer perform the Hoop Dance.  Adults and children alike are amazed at this intricate dance of hoops. Often there will be a Hopi toddler in traditional garb doing their part with the adult dancers.

It is worth your while to check the park schedule so you don’t miss these amazing performances.