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However, once you reach the visitor center, you will be rewarded by a truly remarkable experience. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a major center of ancestral pueblo culture. Historians estimate that the Anasazi lived here from A.D. 850 to 1250. The remote location and preservation of ancient structures transports visitors back in time.

Most people view the short video at the center and then visit some of the five major Chacoan sites located on a nine-mile loop trail. There are short, self-guided tours to the sites. One of the most popular is the Pueblo Bonito, the largest ruin, which was more than four stories high in some parts and had more than 600 rooms.

Even in ruins, it is clear from what is left that the people who lived here were exceptional. The engineering and planning feats have been studied by scientists and archaeologists throughout the world and have added to the body of knowledge about these ancient Pueblo peoples.

This extremely vast area was once the site of ceremonial, trade and political activity. The monumental public and ceremonial buildings were built in a complex pattern that reflected sun and moon cycles. In addition, the roads radiating out from the buildings were formal, planned roads.

Still, many mysteries remain about the ancient people. Why did they choose such a dry, barren land and why did they leave this massive center of pueblo culture? As you walk among the ruins, you can puzzle over the mysteries and admire the design prowess of the Anasazi.

Camping, hiking

For those who prefer hardier activities, there are four back-country hiking trails as well as campsites. There are 49 individual campsites and two group sites. Most require reservations.

Since 2013, the Chaco Culture National Historical Park has been designated an “International Dark Sky Park” and stargazers can partake in the night sky programs offered April through October. The focus, however, on astronomy began much earlier. Chaco Culture NHP has had astronomy programs since 1991. In 1997, the park began construction of an observatory and today visitors can experience both the past and present by learning about ancient Chacoan practices and gazing into the night sky as they did.

During the day, however, you will need to be prepared. There are no stores to purchase fuel or food and it is highly recommended that you bring extra water and food. Due to the extreme heat and sun, visitors should bring hats, sunscreen, and dress appropriately.

As for lodging, many visitors stay in Farmington and while it is an almost two-hour drive, it has quite a few hotels to choose from. Because the park is so removed from urban areas, Farmington may be your best option.

Red cliffs

If you are in the Gallup area, you won’t want to miss Red Rock State Park. The red cliffs formed millions of years ago and offer breathtaking views, especially at sunset. There are campgrounds located at the park but if you prefer traditional lodging, there are several hotels in nearby Gallup.

In addition to the natural beauty of this area, Red Rock Arena is here and special events are held there. The Inter-Tribal Ceremonial takes place in August and is a highlight of the year for New Mexicans and area visitors. Parades, rodeo events, tribal dances, art exhibits and other cultural events take place during this special celebration Aug. 5-8.

As long as you are in Gallup, enjoy the multitude of trading posts, shops and galleries. If you appreciate authentic Native American jewelry and art, this area is a must-see. Another area of interest to many visitors is the Gallup Historic District and El Rancho Hotel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rock inspiration

No visit to Indian Country is complete without passing the inspirational Shiprock rock formation that many consider to be a symbol of the geological beauty of Indian Country. At 600 meters high and 500 meters in diameter, it is what is left of an explosive volcanic eruption more than 30 million years ago. The sheets of lava that cascade away from the central area add to its striking natural beauty.

Other areas of great beauty located farther away but still worth a visit are Bandelier National Monument, located near Los Alamos, and Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, located 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe.

To see all the best sights and thoroughly plan a trip to Native American areas, you may want to consult the New Mexico Tourism site and learn more about the 19 pueblos (www.newmexico.org/native-american). Wherever you travel in Indian Country and New Mexico, you are sure to be touched by the mosaic of beauty, history and sacred nature of these places.