Visiting with a Friend

Jeff's good friend Clifford came for a visit this February. Together, they explored northern AZ, enjoying each other's company and the stunning terrain.

Grand Canyon, from the Desert View Watchtower. Note the Colorado River in the center of the photo.

Did you know that northern Arizona is a geologically active volcanic region? The most recent volcano erupted less than 1,000 years ago. You can easily visit the area as a day-trip from Origins B&B - see Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

This view reminded Jeff of the island of Hawai'i (except for its pine trees).

Field of lava rock, in Sunset Peak National Monument.

Ancient Americans were here at the time of that last volcanic eruption, and presumably re-settled the area to take advantage of the enriched soil. This view is of Wukoki Pueblo, a few miles north of the Sunset Crater, which can easily be visited on the same day-trip. Note the snow-covered peaks off in the distance; these are the San Francisco Peaks just north of Flagstaff (and formerly one of the tallest mountains in North America ... until that mega-volcano blew its top some 550,000 years ago.

Visit Wupatki National Monument to enjoy the stunning views from three different ancient pueblos.

Wukoki Pueblo, located in Wupatki National Monument.

Though there likely were fields of crops in the near distance, this would have been the view the Ancients enjoyed from the Wukoki pueblo, looking westward.

Wukoki Pueblo view, toward the San Francisco Peaks.

Here is a view of the primary pueblo, Wupatki.

Wupatki Pueblo, together with its oval ballcourt.

Jeff & Cliff also visited Sedona! Here is a view of Cathedral Rock, from the Red Rock Loop Rd.

Cathedral Rock, Sedona

A juniper-framed photo of Courthouse Rock:

Courthouse Rock, Sedona

Happy friends, Jeff & Cliff!

Jeff & Cliff exploring Sedona