To break up the drive down to Chaco, Dad and I stayed the night above the old track maintenance town of Sublette, NM. Originally part of the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad, Sublette was in charge of maintaining ten track miles for the Railroad. It’s currently part of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic railroad and maintained by the Friends of the Cumbres and Toltec. It’s always an enjoyable time, camping above Sublette. With fine views of Mt. Blanca, and the San Luis Valley. After taking in a fine sunset, Dad and I settled in for the night.
The next morning, we got on the road early, finishing the drive into Chaco Canyon. After getting settled into our camp spot, we set out on the main drive through the park. Taking in all the ruins. We’ve had the good fortune to explore quite a few Anasazi sites in the Utah Desert, but to be immersed in the ruins of Chaco Canyon was something wonderful. After a few hours of exploring, we headed back to camp for dinner. Then a quick drive to watch the sunset over Fajada Butte.
The old track mainanence town of Sublette, NM. Once part of the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.
Views from camp and a fine sunset.
Camp above Sublette.
Aspens starting to turn as we make our way up Cumbres Pass.
Morning preparations in the Chama yard.
Finally made it to Chaco Canyon! First stop ( after the visitor center) Hungo Pavi. A Chacoan Great House. AD 1000-1250’s.
Chetro Kelt. Chacoan Great House. AD 950-1250’s.
Pueblo Bonito. Chacoan Great House. AD 850-1250’s.
Evening light on Fajada Butte. We’d come back every night to watch the sunset.
