Tuesday, May 29

We spent all day exploring Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert as we made our way north. We’ve been here before but the landscape is just as impressive each time you see it. I am just naturally fascinated by rocks and fossils and the like so I just can’t get enough of the geology. A horned lark singing its heart out from atop a bejeweled petrified log was a good omen.

A leasurly meander thru the newly renovated Painted Desert Inn with all its history of Harvey Girls and noted travelers who stopped for the night from old Route 66 over the years was a fun discovery. It was not open when we last passed thru the park 4 years ago.

A late afternoon stop at historic Hubbel Trading Post and tour of the Hubbel home and grounds began an introduction to Navajo history and culture. We enjoyed the “rug room” at the active Post and marveled at the labor intensive intricate designs.

We finally settled in at a FREE US Dept of Interior campground close to the mouth of Canyon deChelly. Can’t beat that!! Had time to drive along the South rim of the canyon for a breathtaking sunset view of Spider Rock.