Day 26 to Chaco Canyon

"The CDT really pushed us to our limits ... but you have to go through those things. Anyone could do it if it were easy (anyone can do it if they put there mind to it) and it makes everything so much more satisfying and meaningful" -Cassi

The end of a trip is always bittersweet. Our trip along New Mexico's continental divide was complete, but we prolonged our return to "normal life" by taking the long cut home.

John and Bart graciously met us in Chama. They even brought our car, which we'd left at John's, to save us some driving. We hung out on the Chama River then went for lunch. We told them all about our journey since Cuba and they told us about their upcoming trip to the Northwest. In July they will be kayaking and road biking from Vancouver to Oregon.

After a heart felt goodbye we drove to Chaco Canyon. What an amazing place- the 3000 year old ceremonial center of the Anasazi civilization. At its height there were more people living in the 4 corners region of the Southwest than now. We had a great evening exploration to Chetiro Kettle. We slept out under the desert skies again. It seemed so natural now.

new plants seen- coyote willow, Canada goldenrod, devil cholla

animals identified- ringnecked duck, goldenmateled ground squirrel, graycollared chipmunk, Abert's squirrel, rofous and calliope hummingbirds, turkey vultures