The Arizona Republic
Jul. 19, 2007 09:48 AM
Not all scenic drives involve long, jouncy trips on remote dirt roads. Case in point: Forest Road 545 (also called the "Loop Road") meanders 36 paved miles through the high desert plains and volcanic fields northeast of Flagstaff. The landscape varies dramatically, from flat, sparsely vegetated and rather austere vistas along the first few miles to colorful cinder cones flanked by tall ponderosa pines at the southern end. Along the way you can explore fascinating Indian ruins (some a short drive off the main road), ideal places to ponder those who lived here so long ago.
Lomaki Pueblo: A short walk takes you to the remnants of this "beautiful house," a two-story, multiroom structure occupied in the early part of the 13th century. Notice the smaller dwellings beside Box Canyon and the silhouette of the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. Lomaki is nearly 4 miles from U.S. 89.
Doney Picnic Area: Bring a lunch to enjoy here, then take in the sweeping views of the Wupatki Basin as you try to imagine the region as it was when the cinder cones were active. While you're at it, admire the subtle hues of the Painted Desert to the northeast. A walk along the short nature trail is a fine way to gain perspective on the geology, history and culture of this area, about 9 miles from U.S. 89.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: Several great exhibits at the visitors center explain the whys, hows and wheres of volcanic activity, with an emphasis on its effects in the region. Along with hands-on displays, including a variety of volcanic rocks, you'll find information on the region's plant and animal life. There's even a working seismic station. Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. May-October, 9 a.m.-5p.m. November-April. 1-(928)-526-0502, nps.gov/sucr.
Lomaki Pueblo: A short walk takes you to the remnants of this "beautiful house," a two-story, multiroom structure occupied in the early part of the 13th century. Notice the smaller dwellings beside Box Canyon and the silhouette of the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. Lomaki is nearly 4 miles from U.S. 89.
Doney Picnic Area: Bring a lunch to enjoy here, then take in the sweeping views of the Wupatki Basin as you try to imagine the region as it was when the cinder cones were active. While you're at it, admire the subtle hues of the Painted Desert to the northeast. A walk along the short nature trail is a fine way to gain perspective on the geology, history and culture of this area, about 9 miles from U.S. 89.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: Several great exhibits at the visitors center explain the whys, hows and wheres of volcanic activity, with an emphasis on its effects in the region. Along with hands-on displays, including a variety of volcanic rocks, you'll find information on the region's plant and animal life. There's even a working seismic station. Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. May-October, 9 a.m.-5p.m. November-April. 1-(928)-526-0502, nps.gov/sucr.
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