Beyond the scenery that entices people to visit a vast array of national parks, monuments, state parks and archeological ruins throughout this quadrant of North America is a story waiting to be told. It starts with these pertinent questions: What happened here? What makes the geology of this territory so unique, and in most cases, colorful? What is this plant or that creature that lives in such environs? Who were the ancient people that first came here, then settled and built their dwellings and villages? This latter question is especially salient when viewing captivating archeological ruins. For instance, the enigmatic Chaco Canyon, or the lofty and impressive cliff palaces of Mesa Verde, Kiet Siel and Betatakin. Naturally, some visitors want to know only the essentials, while others desire more details. This illuminating traveler’s guidebook features nearly 90 celebrated destinations is like having a key that opens doors of knowledge to all the picturesque places of this renowned quadrant of America.
