The Big Loop, Day 4: El Mapais and Sky City (16 images)

With Utah and Arizona in the rear view mirror, I keep looking for interesting destinations that I may not have already identified when I planned the trip. I'm excited to be entering into "uncharted waters".

Like the El Mapais National Monument, which I hadn't been aware of even the day before. Unfortunately I didn't have enough time to see most of it (including lava caves still closed to protect hibernating bats), but did drive in to see the 120-foot La Ventana natural arch. Very impressive.

Then it was off to visit the Acoma Pueblo, home since 1150 A.D. to the Aroma tribe. The Sky City pueblo sits magnificently atop a sheer-walled, 367-foot sandstone bluff. Unfortunately, tours to that village are still suspended due to Covid 19 precautions. But near the base is the very impressive Sky City Cultural Center, which features educational videos, a museum, vendors, cafe, and more.

The Acoma creation story is a rich one. They very likely migrated from the Mesa Verde area, to Chaco Canyon, and eventually to their current home. 

I took time to visit and joke with the (camera shy) vendors, and was impressed both with their artistry and their warm, good humor. I recommend a visit to see this special place and learn more about the special people there.

Then on down the road to Albuquerque. On the way, I stopped at the Route 66 Casino to stretch my legs a bit. The score? Zero dollars lost, zero bets placed, two legs stretched, one recharged traveler!