Half of us journeyed into Canyon de Chelly inside the warm cabs of
enclosed trucks. The other half rode in an open air truck with plenty of fresh air. Water often flows in the road/river bed, making the trip slow going at times but definitely exciting. Thank goodness for 4 wheel drive as it was deep in
places. The knowledgeable guides were very passionate about their history. Oscar, our driver, grew up in this canyon. From a
family of five, he told of climbing up a series of ladders (some rope
ladders) to get to the top and catch the school bus. 
Desert varnish is the name for the markings along the canyon walls. It is made from the rain mixing with manganese and iron oxide.
