Arcosanti, Part 6 |
Our guided tour complete, we embarked on a self-guided tour in the valley behind Arcosanti. Here is the view as we started — absolutely spectacular.
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Across the valley is our destination — thankfully including a kite-like structure to give us a bit of shade when we get there. I think we'll need it.
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Looking up, I capture a nice view of the main building from the trail head.
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Partway down the trail, I look back to see some of the buildings we toured just a few minutes ago.
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Along the trail we found a retaining wall with a couple fireplaces built in. Our guess was that these are used for evening gatherings of the residents for roasting hot dogs, drinking beer and singing.
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At the bottom of the valley is a dry creek bed. Of course, this being Arizona, one can expect that the summer monsoon storms will generate flash floods at this very spot. Fortunately, this day there was not a cloud in the sky — we're safe.
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Most curious to me was the lichen we found on the rocks along the trail. I tend to think of lichen as growing in cooler, wetter, shaded areas. There were enough lichen-covered rocks here to force me to reconsider that notion.
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The prominent rock face from a closer perspective and different angle.
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We encountered this little lizard on our way back to Arcosanti. He did not seem the least bit afraid of us.
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One final look at the Arcosanti complex. It will be interesting to see how it survives and develops over time. I hope you enjoyed this tour — and perhaps might consider touring in person — it is always a different experience when seen through your own eyes.
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Life is good.