Montezuma Castle Ntnl Monument

Southern Sinagua farmers began building this five-story, 20-room dwelling early in the 1100’s. It stands in a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley floor. They use to allow visitors to climb the ladders and roam about the castle, but that ended in the 60’s after years of people stealing the artifacts and destroying the place.

I walked the short paved trail, taking a few pictures of the castle and surrounding valley and river. During the walk, two hawks flew circles above the area hunting for their chicks (I assume). The squawking was awesome bouncing off cliff walls. I was lucky enough to have just aimed my camera on the next when one jumped out and took flight. What a cool shot!