4/15/18 Travel day from Monument Valley to Navajo National Monument Park. - This National Park in the middle of the Navajo Reservation is a hidden gem. The park is pretty isolated to start with, then you travel down a 10 mile road to the top of a bluff. The trails were great and even included a view of a cliff dwelling towards the base of a canyon. Our plan was to camp at the NP campground but we were not sure if the camper would fit, 28 ft limit vs our camper at 34 ft. Not only did it fit, but the camp spot was one of the nicest ones we have stayed at so far. Even better the site was free. We did make a donation to the park service while we stayed with a sizable contribution made by Wendy and Janet in the gift part of the ranger station. Many great gifts for the Grand-kids.

Our free camp site

Since we arrived fairly early in the day we were able to fit a couple of hikes in. As you can see the group was excited to strap on hiking boots and get started.

Just past the Ranger Station they had on display dinasour tracks found in the area.  Just for size comparison my foot is to the right in the picture just in case you weren't sure.

We hiked down to the first overlook which was paved. At the overlook we saw a view of the cliff dwellings.

Cliff Dwelling pictures with Mike's camera

Same pictures with Wendy's super zoom camera. The next set of pictures were taken from about 3/4 mile away. It is amazing that the timbers for the second floor are still there. The dwelling dates back to the 1200's.

Next up was a hike half way down the canyon approx. 350 ft elevation change to an overlook. This hike included many steps and two bridges.

Well equipped for the hike.... hiking pole (borrowed from Alan Lake) camera with tripod and a Camelback full of water.

Steps and mre steps

                                                  The view from the overlook of the canyon.

                                                           Great looking Group

What goes down must go up!

One happy hiker that made it to the top.

                                                             Sunset at our campsite.