November 23, 2009--- 50 miles south of Flagstaff, Arizona just off I-17 remains evidence of an imposing castle like cliff dwelling perched nearly 100 ft off the valley floor. Today Montezuma Castle National Monument is home to interpretive trails, a small visitor center and gawking tourists but anciently Southern Sinagua famrers began building a five-story, 20-room dwelling as early as the 1100's.
I reached the park an hour before sunset and because of it's easy access and well groomed interpretive trail I made great time exploring Montezuma Castle. Visitors can no longer climb and access the actual dwelling, however, the monument has undergone extensive restoration to remain picturesque.
As impressive as the castle is, my true ambition on this trip was to see Montezuma Well. Nearly five miles up the canyon from Montezuma's Castle a limestone sink formed by the collapse of an immense underground cavern. With a spring flowing into the sink Southern Sinagua farmers irrigated and harnessed the water.
Overlooking the well various dwellings stand watch over the beautiful waters.
Montezuma Well is a lush oasis which provides a stark contrast to the arid desert surrounding the area. It is of little wonder why the ancients would find such a place home.
For more information on Montezuma's Castle and Montezuma Well visit the
National Parks site.
