Very Grand Canyon

Our next stop brought us to the Grand Canyon and although the park was very crowded with many tourists the shuttle system was great and easy to use. We were able to catch the shuttle from our campground and explore the entire rim. Sydney finally got to set up her hammock and enjoy reading and we all enjoyed getting to see some wildlife. The elk freely roam the park and frequently came through our site.

We also really enjoyed a great Junior Ranger Program and all 3 of us earned our badge. Yes, I did too, it's for 4 and up! I highly recommend getting the Jr. Ranger booklets at any park even if you are not there long enough to complete the program, it is a great tool to learn so much more about the park.

 

Petrified Forest ROCKS!

 We took a little break from the trailer for one night and instead spent the night in this cozy little wigwam in Holbrook, AZ. The tiny sleepy town is quaint and it was fun for us to compare the movie Cars to all the little shops and sights. Our search for dinner led us to a Native American group dancing in a square. We decided to stop and watch and Emmett desperately wanted to dance. I said if they invite you to join them then of course he can. Well he ended up winning a t-shirt for his amazing dance effort and cuteness. He was very proud!

Our visit to our next national park was timed so perfectly to be able to see the summer solstice at Petrified Forest. Here the Puebloan's created many petroglyphs on the rocks and used the summer solstice for marking the changing season for crops.

This park is truly one of a kind and the petrified wood is beautiful in this stark desert landscape. The drive through the park also reveals the Painted Desert and the many colorful layers. We also were able to see many fossils, an ancient Pueblo village and enjoyed both interactive visitor centers, definitely worth a visit.

Collared Lizard

Kids in front of Old Faithful, biggest petrified tree