I
arrived at Chaco Canyon around 11:30 am and the first order
of business was to find my brother. I was looking for a
Subaru Outback... A quick stop at the visitors center...
nope. Then to the campgrounds. As you entered the
campgrounds there was a sign that told you to wait for the
camp host, so I did then looking up and there Doug was right
in front of me. After going to our campsite, having a few
beers etc. etc. off we went to see some sites.
Chaco Canyon
(Chaco Culture National Historic Park) is located in the
high desert of north west New Mexico and a lot more
expansive than Canyon de Chelly. Chaco Canyon has several
large adobe complexes known as "Big Houses" that date back
to about 800 A.D. The canyon was then abandoned by around
1140 because they all bought beach-front property in
California. Just kidding of course... they don't really know
why but they assume it was long drought that sent them
packing. During it's long history it is believed to have
been a center for trade throughout the southwest including
Mexico and California. They traded in turquoise, pottery,
macaws and parrots. That's all for the history lesson. Find
out more at:
http://www.nps.gov/chcu
Click here to return to JEEP TRIPS
home |
