Flagstaff Adventure: Walnut Canyon

So I think it was mentioned in my previous post about moving that we took a break from the disaster zone that was our apartment and escaped to do something fun. I mean, we couldn’t have the fabulous Aunt M as our first guest and keep her holed up the whole time in our tiny apartment listening to us squabble, now could we? That’s just a mean thing to do to someone who was giving so generously of her time to us. Did I also mention that it pretty much was gray and rainy the entire time she was here??? Ironically, since she left, it has been mainly blue skies, sunshine, and little rain. I am not saying there is a correlation... but it is a pity that she missed the full beauty that this time of year has to offer.

So, Sunday, we were under pressure to get something done before the rains started as the weather promised us it was pretty much inevitable by early afternoon. We decided to not risk a drive to Sedona and find something closer to home. Walnut Canyon was what we landed on. I was a little worried that we were not going to make it the 7 miles down the road because half way there, we started hearing a weird noise and then suddenly there was a loud BANG and through my rear view mirror I saw a large piece of black something coming flying out from under the car. Immediately I pulled over, and R got out to investigate what the heck just happened. All tires were intact and nothing seemed out of place or missing. R walked back to check out what we had left behind in the middle of the interstate. A state trooper stopped and actually retrieved it. It was finally concluded that it was a piece of unneeded plastic that hides somewhere behind the front bumper that must have become loosened/dislodged when we went off roading during the flood and the increased driving speed shook it loose. So our trip was not to be in jeopardy and we continued onto our destination.

As far as hikes go, this was relatively easy. It was about a mile loop with concrete steps and a paved path with only about a 200 feet change in elevation. However, the scenery and history was absolutely amazing as my pictures hopefully will provide a glimpse. The draw to this park is the canyon side dwellings that where the Sinagua lived around 1200. They are all around the various canyon walls and have been well-preserved. The other thing that I enjoyed immensely was that they had little plaques telling you about the different plants and trees. It is so different around here from other areas I have lived in and visited, so I enjoyed learning some of that. Yes, geeky, I know, but it definitely helped clear up some curiosity! We took our time, enjoyed the views, and took lots of pictures. It was a much needed change up and the rain even held off for us.

Here are the pictures to enjoy.