Mesa Verde is a National Park that sits around 8,400 feet and was the home to many indian communities from around 550 AD to 1250 AD. What is unusual is that the indians, rather than being nomadic, built houses - initially on the high plains, but then into the sides of the cliffs.
There are numerous areas to visit where up to 100 small houses are crammed on to a ledge in the side of the cliffs. As they have been sheltered by the cliffs above them - they are very well preserved after almost 1,000 years.
The indians who lived in this area disappeared around 1,250AD. The best theory is that there was a 25 year drought around that time (based on tree ring analysis) and the indians moved South to find water.
The kids enjoyed short walks and lots of education - and got another (5th) Junior Ranger badge.
On our final walk the heavens opened, the thunder clashed and down came the hail stones. As we sheltered under a cliff the ground turned white as the hail started to look more like snow!
A quick coffee to warm up and we jumped into the car and drove out on roads that were white.
Now we expected snow on this trip - maybe in Yellowstone - but not yet. Admitedly we are at 8,000 feet and its cold but tomorrow we need to drive over an 11,000 foot pass. We could see the mountain where the pass is today and it looked very, very white.....could be a fun day tomorrow.
We are now in Durango for the night. Tomorrow morning is Zip Lining for Me, Emma and James. Jack and Olivia are being babysat by the young girl that works in the motel......
After 12 days in the USA we are forming 'views':
1. We love the friendly people
2. The National Parks are stunning
3. Free wi-fi in hotels is great
But, there are some issues:
1. Do we really need cheese on EVERY dish?
2. Does cheese need to be orange and often come out a tube?
3. American kids are fat. I worry about the future of the US having seen the kids.
Ken
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