Lots of dead trees in the area. They were killed by a series of fires in the past. Because of climate changes, new trees can't sink their roots deep enough to reach shrinking water tables, and never re-establish themselves.
Visitor Center in middle of the park. The park is very large, and lots of driving is required to get from one important point to another. There are estimated to be hundreds of cliff dwellings scattered in the park. We will see four of the largest over the next several days.
Diorama in the museum depicting what a cliff dwelling would look like at the beginning of habitation by humans.
A lodge in the background, with a herd of wild horses munching on the grass.
Part of the museum complex, and beginning of trail to Spruce House - one of the first cliff dwellings discovered.
Samples of corn found in some cliff dwellings. The domestication of corn allowed hunter-gatherers to settle into dwellings, such as the cliff dwellings.
View of Spruce House from top of trail. Notice the flat, desert-like surface over the dwelling, which descends into a small canyon. Typical of cliff dwellings.
Entrance into Spruce House
Mimi reads about the various units in the Spruce House
Several Kivas are present in larger dwellings. These are like "bomb shelters" , but used for religious reasons. Also, during severe winters, they seal-up nicely, and with a fire in the center, are very warm.
Inside the Kiva
Stone metates used to grind the corn. Metate sites usually have a very nice view
This is a view of the museum trail head from the cliff dwelling
Mimi checking-out part of Spruce House
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