Located in northwestern New Mexico, Chaco Canyon is one of the most visually stunning archaeological sites in the Southwest. The Ancient Puebloans, known also as the Anasazi, are believed to have appeared in the Four Corners region as early as 1200 BC. In the mid 800s, the Chacoan culture experienced a phenomenal growth with the construction of several magnificent great houses including Pueblo Bonito. Sophisticated architecturally, these great houses were aligned to solar, lunar and cardinal directions. By AD 1050, Chaco was the predominant economic and cultural center of the region and remained so until about AD 1300. Scholars believe that severe drought conditions may have resulted in the depopulation and eventual abandonment of Chaco Canyon. Join us on a tour of the 6 great houses that are located along the 9-mile long Canyon Loop Drive.
