The many settlement sites scattered throughout the monument were built by the Ancient Pueblo People, more specifically the Sinagua, Cohonina, and Kayenta Anasazi. Wupatki was first inhabited around 500 AD. A major population influx began soon after the eruption of Sunset Crater in the 11th century (between 1040–1100), which blanketed...
Once again I have visited a volcano crater. For most of my life I thought volcano’s were a rare thing on the planet, but as I am visiting them I am realizing just how common they are. They are right under our noses and we hardly notice. Just look at...
The term El Malpais (“the Badlands”) is used locally to refer to lava flows. I did not know this when I came to this Ntnl Monument. From the satellite view it is clear; a huge black smudge blankets the area south of Grants, NM. It’s volcanic features include a string...
Walnut Canyon National Monument is located about 10 miles southeast of downtown Flagstaff, Arizona, near Interstate 40. The canyon rim elevation is 6,690 ft; the canyon’s floor is 350 ft lower. A 0.9 mi long loop trail descends 185 ft into the canyon passing 25 cliff dwelling rooms constructed by the Sinagua, a pre-Columbian cultural...
Southern Sinagua farmers began building this five-story, 20-room dwelling early in the 1100’s. It stands in a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley floor. They use to allow visitors to climb the ladders and roam about the castle, but that ended in the 60’s after years of people stealing...
Right off Interstate-17 (exit 256) is one of two entrances to Agua Fria National Monument. Badger Springs Rd is nothing more than a dirt road that brings you into the border of the monument about 1 mile. After that you are left with a trail that will bring you to...
