As we headed down the road we came upon the Archaeological Area known as Chimney Rock.
A thousand years ago, the forests below Chimney Rock's twin pinnacles were home to ancestral Puebloan people. Later, the formations served as a landmark for the European explorers and prospectors who settled this rugged country. Today, the prominent and beautiful spires mark one of the most unusual and intriguing archaeological sites in the Four Corners.
Located 17 miles west of Pagose Springs, Co. Chimney Rock's stone pinnacles guard an ancient pueblo on lands shared by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the San Juan National Forest.
Chimney Rock is a special place.. it offers a glimpse of the challenges faced by those who came before us. Originally excavated in the early 1920's, Chimney Roch was designated an Archaeological Area and National Historical Site in 1970.
Mysteries, myths, legends, and theories abound: Why did a lowlands, agricultural community migrate to the high elevations and harsh conditions of the Chimney Rock mesa...and why did they leave? What attracted them to the twin towers - spiritual purposes? Defense against enemies? Was Chimney Rock a trading post for the ancient Southwest?
Chimney Rock is the most isolated and remote of the "outliers" - the communities connected to Chaco Canyon - and is also the highest in elevation.
Since the 1960's members of the University of Colorado have studied the site, and research continues today. What brought the Chacoans here? Dr. J. McKin Malville of the University of Colorado thinks that the High Mesa structures may have been inspired by the "lunar standstill" phenomenon, which occurs every 18 years. Was the Great House built so that it residents could watch the moon rise between the pinnacles?
The Great House, Ridge House, Great Kiva, and some 200 other undisturbed structures are found within the six square miles of Archaeological Area.
Whatever brought their ancient ancestors to Chimney Rock, modern Southwestern Indian cultures still consider it to be a place of spiritual significance.
From Chimney Rock we drove over to Pagosa Springs for lunch at Boss Hogg's Restaurant & Saloon. What a cute little town! Known for its hot springs!
"Pagosah" is the name given to the Great Pagosa Hot Springs by the Ute Indians, the "Pah" meaning "water" and the "gosah" signifying "boiling".
A more popular and accepted definition is the term "healing water". This hot mineral water still holds a certain mystique today, and many attest to its therapeutic value.
May area resorts and hotels operate hot mineral baths/pools and a hot mineral swimming pool.
I am sure that this is more information than you really needed but we do find some interesting places.......
That is all for today....stay tuned for more later.....
Candy and Johnny
