Sunrise fro my campsite across Roosevelt Lake
I recently stayed at a campground right on Roosevelt Lake in AZ. The site I picked had a wonderful view to the south of the lake.
Nearby was Tonto National Monument, with the ancient cliff dwellings. I was up and out so I could be there right at 0800 when it opened. The walk up is nicely paved with good traction but it is still a 350′ elevation. Lost os switchbacks and a few
View from part way up to the cliff dwelling
places to stop and rest along the way. I didn’t sit down but I did stop to take some photos. What a view!
Saguaro cactus with a “crest” or “crown”, the arms all grow out of the top, very rare.
The whole area has loads of real bug Saguaro cactus including one with a crest, very rare!
Ok, the cliff dwelling. Very interesting. The Salado lived in it probably between 1200 and 1300. They farmed in the valley along the river (now disappeared because of the dam that created Roosevelt Lake). They had irrigation, grew things like squash, other food and some cotton.
This volunteer answered all my questions and pointed out some unique features
The cliff dwelling itself is pretty small compared to houses today that hold one family and this one held more than one family or it was quite an extended family.
Hand prints left behind by workers applying original adobe
The volunteer was most helpful, answering my questions and pointing out features that I would never have noticed or understood. For example hand prints left by the ancients when they were applying the original adobe.
All images © jeanclarkphotography.com
borderbrae 
Hey Jean,
How are you doing! I see you are still in Arizona. We have been playing with a new camera and renting a few lenses to see what we like. Only traveling locally.
Be sure to let us know when you come back to Florida so we can meet up! Keep up the good work on posting your pictures! Cindy and Bill Hines
Hi Cindy, good to hear from you. I’ll be home in less than a month. Will be interested to hear what camera bod you got.
I’ve been watching for an update. Maybe we can explore that area next year. Wishing you safe travels as you work your way East.
Hi Jerry, Yes, it’s a nice area, weather was great and the campground was pretty good. See you soon