Jun 11, 2015

 

My favourite shot at Monument Valley late yesterday afternoon.



And the sights continue heading out of Monument Valley as we head for the rain.



Coming out of one of many thunderstorms today complete with pouring rain and hail and a night dark sky as well as some awesome / scary lightening. Seems we dipped in and out of these and were either approaching or leaving or riding alongside. We got very very wet.

A shot of the Painted Desert. A shame it was so overcast, doesn't do the clays and stones justice.



And another with petrified logs at the base.



Painted Desert Inn.



And a shot in the quirky little bar. A stretch of the old Route 66 was within the park.



More Painted Desert known as the Teepees.




Petrified tree. These trees were blown to bits by treasure seekers after amethest and crystals many years ago. Really!



And the cross section of the grain of one log. Beautiful colours and patterns.

And here is a happy camper we found in the car park.

At the end of the day in spite of waterproofs we were very wet and uncomfortable and my bike served as a handy clothes line in the Arizona sun, is nothing sacred?!?!

And since Holbrook is on the old Route 66 we had a look at what we could find reminiscent of the period and here is the Wigwam Hotel which is still in use ... including the wigwams as well as other rooms.. We enjoyed the drive on our way home from dinner tonight looking at some of the old neon signs.

Last Night's Accommodation:

The View Hotel, Indian Route 42E Oljato, Monument Valley, Utah 84536
The only hotel inside Navajo Tribal Park and is attached to a huge Visitors Centre and Restaurant. The room was comfortable and artworks throughout the hotel were superb and varied. The whole complex showcased both the valley and the Navajo people. Worked well. The hotel sits nestled into the side of the valley and doesn't seem obtrusive. Staff friendly and helpful .