Starting out on the Trail of the Ancients

I don’t know if I will ever get over the disappointment of not being able to see the Mesa Verde because of an unnecessary government shutdown. But here we were in this magical area of our country and we were determined to see what we could.

Greg directed us to the town of Cortez, where there was a cultural center that was open.

The women at the Cortez cultural center were very helpful, explaining that while most of the area’s protected treasures were controlled and owned by the federal government in the forms of parks and monuments, there were still areas controlled by Native Americans that could be accessed. We were directed to the Trail of the Ancients, a scenic byway that crosses the beautiful and diverse landscapes of the Colorado Plateau. 

Ute Mountain Tribal Park

Our first stop would be the Ute Mountain Tribal Park. We were hoping to get a tour into the back area of the Mesa Verde. 

Unfortunately the Ute woman at the Visitor Center told us that there would be no more tours because of the quadruple threats of snow, bears, mountain lions and the danger of getting clay in our brakes and tires! Could we go back the road a bit? No. Again, the threat of bears and mountain lions, and that clay ... They were going to put a no trespassing sign up soon, she said. Could we hire a private guide to take us in?  No.  Well, where could we go? Four Corners.

Four Corners

When I was researching our trip to the Southwest, there was one place that I immediately chalked off the list: Four Corners. The place where 4 states (Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado) meet, it looked “cheesy”, not worth it. But here we were, a few miles away and without a better plan, so we headed for Four Corners. 

 More jewelry - I'm surprised that I did not buy any!

 John checking out the arrows.  He didn't buy any either ... I guess we finally know that we don't need any more stuff!

 It was cheesy, and not worth it, but we did get a very good Navaho Taco there.