Gila Cliff Dwellings

On my off day, I drove 72 miles to visit Gila Cliff Dwellings.  I had been there years ago, but wanted to go again.

Gila Cliff Dwellings

The National Park Service operates the site, and as is normal, they regulate activity to prevent destruction.  There were two guides at the entrance of the trail, welcoming people, and making sure no one carries trash, drinks( except water), and pets up the canyon trail.  I had expected all the rules except the water /soft drink rule.

I had just filled my drink bottle with diet cola 5 minutes earlier, and didn't want to discard it, so I went up the trail with no drink.

I did carry my camera, and a walking stick, wore a hat, and had on appropriate clothing and shoes.

The trail is one mile long, and goes uphill mostly.  I was having some trouble with walking, and stopped for brief breaks about 7 times.  At first I was embarrassed to have to stop, but after a few comments from me to my hiking companion, (apologizing) she and I began to realize that those stops gave us the opportunity to see tiny flowers at our feet, birds in the bushes, etc.  We found multiple opportunities for joyful discoveries!

Black Phoebe

Tiny purple flower, as yet unidentified

Thanks to Mother Nature for all the handiwork!