Sun 8 July – 9206 steps, 18 flight
We set off early, stopping at various view points along the way. On top of one hill you get a clear 360 degree view of the surrounding area. We drove on until we could join a cycle path which does a loop showing the earlier dwellings the Ancestral Pueblo people on top of the Mesa Verde, as well as views of some of the cave dwellings.
The mesa dwellings are fascinating. They were semi-excavated, with brick walls and would have had a roof structure. They are separated into different functional areas, including a kiva or gathering place, which was built with a vent behind the fire place, to allow fresh air in. The structures are so well preserved and explained. They indicate that a well-organized, sophisticated people lived there.
We then drove to another section of the park, where we went on a guided tour of the Cliff Palace. It involved winding your way down into the cave, around huge rocks; on uneven, dusty, stone staircases; more than a few wooden ladders and the incessant, baking sun. They tell you if you are afraid of heights, have bad knees or other physical challenges, not to do it. I had serious doubts about doing the tour, but thankfully David encouraged me and I made it.
Standing in the ruins was a very humbling experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable and respectful of the culture of the Publeo–Indians who once lived here. No-one knows why at some point, all across the region, people started moving down from the mesa tops to the caves below. They built elaborate structures, however, they only stayed there only for a short period and then moved on. There are various theories as to why this happened, but there is no real answer. The theories adapt as more research is done.
Of course, once the tour was complete we had to make our way to the top again on the other side. A breath-taking experience in both senses of the word.
It was getting late, so we finished driving around the park, and headed off in a south easterly direction. We found an RV park in Farmington. It poured as we arrived. If I remember correctly, it was the first rain we have had since we have been here. Certainly welcome after all the desert.
What I resolved to do: Keep up my get fit programme and have a knee replacement so I am ready for Machu Picchu!
What I learnt: In each of the kivas is a small hole in the floor called a sipapu. It is believed to symbolise the entryway where the ancestors emerged from an earlier world into our present one. There is a sacred site in the Grand Canyon, believed by the Hopi to be the original sipapu and many make the arduous pilgrimage to visit the site. It ties into my belief system.
Kim's journey 