Chaco Canyon

Today we had planned to drive to Mesa Verde, CO, to meet up with the  Miller family during their RV adventures; unfortunately, the timing didn't work out, so we decided to head to Chaco Canyon instead!

 Chaco Canyon is an area that was inhabited by a sophisticated culture from about 850 AD to 1250 AD.  These people built large, multi-storied structures, had an advanced knowledge of astronomy, and traded with cultures as far away as Central America!

It is not easy to get to Chaco...the only way in is a 20 mile long unpaved road.  Our little car did not enjoy this trip.  But we did--the bumpy road was definitely worth it!

 From the visitor's center, we took a short trail to Una Vida, one of the Great Houses (public buildings) of Chaco Canyon and some cool petroglyphs.

Next, we took a ranger-guided walk around Pueblo Bonito, the largest of Chaco's Great Houses and truly an incredible piece of architecture!  It once contained over 600 rooms and 40 kivas (large, circular rooms used for religious ceremonies).

 Finally, we took the Pueblo Alto trail up to the top of the mesa for some great views of Pueblo Bonito from above!

 
Now that I have finally experienced Chaco Canyon, I feel like I can be a legitimate New Mexico history teacher!  (We only have four days of class left, but better late than never!)   :)  I definitely recommend this experience for anyone who comes to northwestern New Mexico!