Mesa Verde

Absolutely unbelievable and amazing - both the drive to the top of the mesa and the ancient Pueblo dwellings we toured.

The drive was extremely steep and long with countless switchbacks -- literally breath-taking -- and that was only the beginning of the trepidations for those of us who are height challenged.

There were several sites to visit. Getting to the largest dwelling involved climbing a combination of many sets of steep rock stairs as well as many ladders. Part of the reason for building in the cliffs was to make it extremely difficult for enemies to enter. It's still extremely difficult to enter! After carefully considering the park ranger's disclaimers we decided to press on. (left the camera in the car for that one -- needed both hands to hang on!)

The climb was well worth it - hundreds of rooms. A carefully designed sacred home for the Pueblos for over 700 years. We were tired and happy and proud that we had decided to make the journey.