These Indians had to scale the mountain walls to build the dwellings, and they used ladders to access them. The ladders were then drawn up into the dwellings for safety. The Sinagua abandoned these dwellings in the 1400s.
Although you can no longer enter them, you can see them up on the side of the mountain. They have a neat diorama that shows how the Indians must have likely lived when it was occupied. This was a really neat little trip, and very beautiful area down by the river. There were lots of gorgeous, big sycamore trees there.
Interestingly, we got our first glimpse of the San Francisco Peaks way off in the distance, covered with snow. For the next several days, we saw those mountains from many different angles and distances as we moved on through Flagstaff and to the Grand Canyon. I also was able to finally purchase a good-sized piece of amethyst, which is something I have always wanted, but could never afford. This is my birthstone, and the price was very reasonable, so I guess my patience finally paid off!
Take care, and visit us often as we move along.