2004-06-14: Wupatki National Monument
Wupatki National Monument is located just northeast of Flagstaff, AZ. Ancestors of today's Hopi and Zuni Indians came together in this area to build a vast farming community. The eruption of Sunset Crater improved the agricultural potential in this area because the thin ash layer absorbed moisture and prevented evaporation. This area is called box canyon.
2004-06-14: Wupatki Pueblo
Homes ranged from one-story, single family structures to Wupatki Pueblo, a multi-level, high-rise. This was the largest dwelling in the area with about 100 rooms.
2004-06-15: Giant Logs Trail
We had not been to the Petrified Forest since 1969 on our migration trip from Connecticut. Seeing these "rock trees" was as awesome now as it was then. We really enjoyed Giant Logs Trail where we learned how it all happened.
2004-06-15: Taking a Break
It was really hot but there were plenty of logs to stop and rest upon. This really is an incredible area.
2004-06-15: Old Faithful
One of the largest in the park, this log was christened "Old Faithful" by the wife of the park's first Superintendent. Although the logs look like they were sawed into sections, these breaks occurred naturally. Since they are composed of quartz, they are hard and brittle and break easily when subjected to stress.
2004-06-15: Old Faithful
One of the largest in the park, this log was christened "Old Faithful" by the wife of the park's first Superintendent. Although the logs look like they were sawed into sections, these breaks occurred naturally. Since they are composed of quartz, they are hard and brittle and break easily when subjected to stress.
2004-06-15: The Painted Desert
Dark layers in the Painted Desert are caused by high carbon content. Darker reds are iron-stained siltstone. Reddish areas are stained by iron oxide, which is also called hematite.
2004-06-15: Painted Desert Inn
This pueblo style inn was built in the early 1900's and refurbished in the 1930's. The bedrooms were small but the public rooms were probably where visitors spent their time. Yup, that's the new Jeep Liberty waiting to put on more miles!
2004-06-15: Wigwam Motel
Holbrook, a quaint little town near the Petrified Forest, is the home of the Wigwam Motel. We had read about this establishment in Discovery Magazine and were thrilled to see it up close and personal. If we didn't have the motorhome we certainly would have spent the night here!!
2004-06-15: Navajo Dancers
Navajo dancers were entertaining at the old Holbrook Courthouse. Tryna jumped right in and joined them for the friendship dance. Good thing it was easy to do!