|
Walnut Canyon
Just seven miles outside of Flagstaff on I-40 is the tranquil, stream-cut gorge of Walnut Canyon National Monument. Paved trails will take you to ancient cliff dwellings in the steep
canyon walls. This is where the Sinagua Indians lived nearly 1,000 years ago. The Visitor Center doubles as a Museum exhibiting artifacts. For more information, call 1-928-527-0246.
Sunset Crater
Named by the explorer Major John Wesley Powell, Sunset Crater Volcano
National Monument is an excellent destination for an afternoon trip. Just 15 miles from Flagstaff on Highway 89 you will see how time has little changed
the rivers of lava from an eruption 900 years ago. Trails and viewpoints allow for a closer look. Fees required.
For more information call 1-928-556-7134.
Wupatki National Monument
In this area of the southwest, it certainly isn't surprising to find the
remnants of earlier people. What is surprising about Wupatki is that this pueblo ruin has a ball court. Although archaeologists don't know
what type of games were played in the court, they suggest a similarity to the Aztecs and Mayans in central and southern Mexico.
Visitors can see four pueblos by following the short trails. The largest, Wupatki Ruin, has approximately 85 rooms and is located
just behind the visitor center which is open year round. For more information call 1-928-556-7040.
|