Big Kiva overview
Big Kiva
Visitors to Big Kiva will be struck by the sheer scale of this ancient structure. Measuring approximately 62 feet in diameter, it is one of the largest kivas (ceremonial chambers) in the Chaco Canyon region. The walls of the kiva are made of stone and were constructed using a complex system of interlocking blocks. The roof of the kiva is supported by large wooden beams that are still visible today.
One of the most unique features of Big Kiva is its intricate design. The walls of the kiva are lined with benches and niches that were used to hold ceremonial objects and offerings. The central fire pit is also a notable feature, as it was used for ceremonial purposes.
Visitors to Big Kiva can take a guided tour of the structure and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. The park rangers who lead these tours are knowledgeable and passionate about the Puebloan people and their way of life. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area and see other ancient structures that are part of the Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
Overall, Big Kiva is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. Its impressive size, intricate design, and rich history make it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Plan your visit down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Plan a longer trip
The closest parks, campgrounds, fishing spots, and other landmarks so a quick visit can grow into a full day.
Parks
- Rover Park
- Wilderness Bandelier
- Bandelier National Monument
- Ashley Pond
- Xeriscape Demo Garden
- Wilderness Dome
Campgrounds
- Juniper - Bandelier National Monument
- Ponderosa Reservation Group Campground
- Tetilla Peak - Cochiti Lake
- Cochiti - Cochiti Lake
- Las Conchas
- Santa Clara Canyon Campground
Responsible visitation & Leave No Trace
- Know before you go
- Check the operator's site (BLM, NPS, state agency, or private owner) for access rules, permits, and seasonal closures before driving out.
- Stay on trail
- Many points of interest sit in fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked paths to protect vegetation and prevent erosion.
- Respect wildlife
- Observe from a distance, never feed wildlife, and give nesting birds and denning mammals plenty of space.
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you. Remote sites often have no trash service.
- Leave what you find
- Don't take rocks, plants, fossils, or artifacts. Federal law protects cultural and natural resources on public land.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save Big Kiva as a favorite, set a weather threshold (precipitation, freezing temperatures), and the iOS app will push the moment conditions cross.
About Big Kiva
What is Big Kiva?
A point of interest in New-Mexico tracked by Snoflo -- typically a scenic landmark, named summit, monument, or viewpoint.
How fresh is the weather data?
The hourly forecast updates throughout the day from NOAA / yr.no public feeds.
When is the best time to visit?
Use the 15-day temperature & precipitation outlook on this page to pick a window with comfortable temperatures and low precipitation.
How do I get there?
Tap Directions in the hero above for Google Maps driving directions, or Open in map to center the Snoflo interactive map on the spot.
Can I get alerts when conditions change?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this POI, set a threshold (temperature, precipitation), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses.
Other points of interest near here
Snoflo-tracked landmarks within driving distance of Big Kiva.