Road Scholar : Home
Tony Hillerman's Landscape

Program Number: 20164RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/11/2013 - 9/23/2013; 10/9/2013 - 10/21/2013;
Duration: 12 nights
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Price starting at: $2,799.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: On the Road; Literature; Photography
Meals: 35; 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Experience the Southwest on an exceptional adventure focused on award-winning American author Tony Hillerman. Join Anne Hillerman — the novelist’s daughter — and her professional photographer husband, Don Strel, on a 13-day, three-state exploration of people and locations Hillerman wrote about in his 19-book mystery series featuring officer Jim Chee and Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police. Hear specially chosen speakers, view film adaptations of Hillerman novels, and discuss his books and creativity with the family who knew him best.




Highlights

• As you experience the culture of Native American pueblos and speak with members of the Navajo Nation, photograph Hillerman subjects with tutelage from Don Strel.
• Explore Crown Point Rug Auction, Zuni and Acoma Pueblos, the Grand Canyon, Canyon de Chelly, Monument Valley, Window Rock and more.
• Receive an autographed copy of "Tony Hillerman's Landscape," written by Anne Hillerman with photography by Don Strel.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles over uneven terrain.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Santa Fe, N.M., 1 night; coach to Albuquerque, N.M., 1 night; coach to Gallup, N.M., 1 night; coach to Chinle, Ariz., 2 nights; coach to Tuba City, Ariz., 1 night; coach to Cameron, Ariz.,1 night; coach to Monument Valley, UT., 2 nights; coach to Cortez, CO., 1 night; coach to Gallup, N.M., one night; coach to Santa Fe, N.M., 1 night; Departure.



Coordinated by Road Scholar.




Gallup

Gateway to several Native American pueblos and reservations including Acoma, Zuni, Hopi and the Navajo nation, historic Gallup is situated in the northwest corner of New Mexico encircled by breathtaking scenery, including red rock canyons, mesas and the Chuksa and Zuni Mountains.



Chinle

Located near the geographic center of the Navajo Nation, the largest tract of land reserved for American Indians in the United States, Chinle is a hub of the native Navajo community. Against a backdrop of ancient ruins at the mouth of the Canyon De Chelly National Monument, many Navajo still live in traditional hogans.



Monument Valley

Embodying the open spaces of the Great American Southwest, Monument Valley’s vast landscape seems to stretch endlessly in all directions, occasionally interrupted by towering buttes of red and burgundy rock. The few native peoples who live here honor the place by living simply and respecting the natural forces that have shaped the land.



Grand Canyon National Park

Within the borders of its 1.2 million acres, this World Heritage Site offers bikers, hikers, rafters and campers everything from breathtaking vistas to high adventure. Its 277 miles of raw rock and water continue to amaze generations of visitors.



Winslow

This stop on historic Route 66 became known to America when in 1972 Glenn Frey of the Eagles famously sang about “a-standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” Within the town is the famous La Posada Hotel, which has hosted the likes of Ronald Reagan, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn and Kirk Douglas, who all appeared in Westerns filmed in the area.



Santa Fe

A cosmopolitan city famous for its world-renowned opera, chamber and choral music and for its art and artists, Santa Fe is situated at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Nearby, eight historic, continuously occupied pueblos and small Hispanic villages divulge a heritage that is impeccably preserved in this multi-cultural state capital.
Accommodations
Comfortable hotels and, in some cases, landmark properties.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Richard Sandlin
Dick Sandlin teaches Road Scholar participants about topics like railroading in the Rockies, archaeology of the Four Corners region and the Buffalo Soldiers. He has a background in filmmaking with a CBS-TV in Miami as well as with the U.S. Army and Pentagon motion-picture team. Dick earned a bachelor’s in mass communications from the University of Miami and a bachelor’s in Southwest Humanities from Fort Lewis College.
 
Anne Hillerman
Anne Hillerman, the daughter of crime novelist Tony Hillerman, is the author of six books and is an experienced journalist. She has received awards for her work from the National Federation of Press Women and the New Mexico Press Association. She is the director of Wordharvest Writers Workshops and the Tony Hillerman Writers Conference: Focus on Mystery. She and her husband, Don Strel, authored the book "Tony Hillerman's Landscape." Anne lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
 
Don Strel
Don Strel taught design at San Francisco State and Northern Illinois University, and has served as the director of the Museum of Fine Arts at the Museum of New Mexico. A resident of Santa Fe, he is the director of Southwest Assignments, a design and public relations agency. Don and his wife, Anne Hillerman, created “Tony Hillerman's Landscape,” a photographic journey through the landscape immortalized in bestselling author Tony Hillerman's beloved mystery series.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
  Santa Fe, NM 1 night
   Nativo Lodge
  Santa Fe, NM 1 night
   Comfort Suites Gallup
  Gallup, NM 1 night
   Thunderbird Lodge
  Chinle, AZ 2 nights
   Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites
  Tuba City, Arizona 1 night
   Cameron Trading Post & Lodge
  Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 1 night
   Kayenta Monument Valley Inn
  Kayenta, Arizona 2 nights
   Baymont Inn and Suites Cortez
  Cortez, CO 1 night
   Comfort Suites Gallup
  Gallup, NM 1 night
   Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
  Santa Fe, NM 1 night
 Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: This charming hotel is located one block from the historic downtown Plaza and is surrounded by Santa Fe restaurants and shops with convenient transportation nearby. 100% non-smoking facility.
  Contact info: 100 Sandoval Street
Santa Fe, NM 87507 USA
phone: 505-988-2811
web: www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/SFEHIHF-hilton
  Room amenities: Southwest motif, Hilton Serenity Bed and Amenity Collections, coffee and tea service, ironing boards, robes, hair dryer and makeup mirror
  Facility amenities: Business Center, Complimentary printing service, fax, express mail, notary public, office rental, photo copying service, video conferencing available, video messaging, video phone, 24-hour Pavilion Pantry Market, laundry-valet service, ATM, baggage storage, bar area, concierge desk, elevators, gift shop, guest activity/recreation desk, lounge, multi-lingual staff, room service, fitness room, pool
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: best seasonal rates Request additional nights directly from hotel prior to arrival by calling 505-988-2811.
  Check in time: 4:00 PM
  Additional nights after: best seasonal rates Request additional nights directly from hotel prior to arrival by calling 505-988-2811.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM

 Nativo Lodge
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Part of Heritage Hotels and Resorts, Nativo Lodge is one of Albuquerque's boutique hotels. Located in northern Albuquerque close to Balloon Fiesta Park, the hotel is only a few miles from Old Town, Indian Pueblo Culture Center and many other area attractions. Nativo Lodge features Native American decor, with many of the hotel's features having been made by local pueblo residents.
  Contact info: 6000 Pan American Fwy. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109 USA
phone: 505-798-4300
web: www.hhandr.com/nativo_amenities.php
  Room amenities: Rooms feature in-room WiFi, gourmet coffee and tea, plush bedding, irons and ironing boards, separate vanities, two phone lines, data ports, voicemail, refrigerators upon request (fee charged), microwaves upon request (fee charged), room service, work desk, sitting area
  Facility amenities: The hotel features a restaurant on premises serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Local seasonal items and a variety of entrées with Southwestern flare are available as well as many other choices. A bar/lounge is open for drinks. Room service is available. Recreational amenities include an outdoor and indoor pool, a spa tub, a sauna, a fitness facility. Spa amenities include facials and body treatments. There is a business center, complimentary wireless Internet access in public areas, complimentary guest parking and laundry facilities.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Comfort Suites Gallup
Type: Hotel
  Description: All-suites hotel located on old Route 66.
  Contact info: 3940 E. Highway 66
Gallup, NM 87301 USA
phone: 505-863-3455
web: www.hotelsone.com/gallup-hotels-us/comfort-suites-gallup.html?
  Room amenities: High-speed Internet access, hair dryers, coffee makers, irons and ironing boards, cable television
  Facility amenities: business center, cable television, indoor pool
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Thunderbird Lodge
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Located in near Chinle, Arizona, the hotel features 73 modern rooms. The lodge’s pink adobe construction is reminiscent of ancient pueblos. Guests enjoy sitting in the shade of cottonwood trees planted in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
  Contact info: PO Box 548
Chinle, AZ 86503 USA
phone: 800-679-2473
web: www.tbirdlodge.com
  Room amenities: Private baths, air conditioning/central heating, telephones, color/cable television,
  Facility amenities: On-site cafeteria, charming guest rooms. Hotel is only authorized provider of group tours in Canyon de Chelly National Monument.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites
Type: Hotel
  Description: This hotel is the first built in Hopi tribal land in 50 years, and was the inspiration of the Elders of Upper Village of Moenkopi. It was their vision that their village should be a place of welcome and gathering for visitors to the land of the Hopi. The hotel offers a serenity lounge, and a kiva garden for visitors to enjoy.
  Contact info: P. O. Box 2260
Tuba City, AR 87056 USA
phone: 928-283-4500
web: www.experiencehopi.com/hotel.html
  Room amenities: coffee maker, armchair, 32" flat-screen TV, wireless Internet access, non-smoking, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, air conditioning, radio alarm clock, cable television; voice mail
  Facility amenities: Lobby coffee bar, full service business center, fitness center, Jacuzzi, outdoor pool, San Francisco Peaks Serenity Lounge, Kiva garden
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Cameron Trading Post & Lodge
Type: Lodge
  Description: Cameron Trading Post is an authentic Native American Indian hotel & trading post in the heart of the Southwest near the Navajo and Hopi lands. Each room has the theme of an Indian hotel with hand-carved furnishings in historic Southwestern decor to provide comfort and charm during your stay.
  Contact info: 466 HWY 89
Cameron, AZ 86020 USA
phone: 180-033-8738 x5
web: http://www.camerontradingpost.com
  Room amenities: All rooms have telephone, cable TV, Wi-Fi, coffee makers and AC.
  Facility amenities: A beautiful restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a huge stone fireplace, antique fixtures, and Native American Indian art decor. The beautiful Sandstone gardens at the Cameron Trading Post lodge were designed and planted in the 1930's. The Cameron Trading Post today is a center for local trade as well as a source for Native American Indian art, antique and contemporary.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Kayenta Monument Valley Inn
Type: Hotel
  Description: Proximity to Monument Valley
  Contact info: Junction US Highways 160 & 163
Kayenta, AZ 86033 USA
phone: 928-697-3221
web: kayentamonumentvalleyinn.com
  Facility amenities: Heated outdoor pool, on-site self-laundry facilities, health/fitness facility, room service, high-speed wireless internet access
  Smoking allowed: No

 Baymont Inn and Suites Cortez
Type: Hotel
  Description: This 100 percent non-smoking hotel is conveniently located off U.S. Highway 160, just minutes from Mesa Verde National Park, the Dolores River, the Anasazi Heritage Center Museum, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center.
  Contact info: 2321 E. Main
Cortez, CO 81321 USA
phone: 970-565-3400
web: www.baymontinns.com/Baymont/control/Booking/property_info?propertyId=33417&brandInfo=BU
  Room amenities: cable/satellite TV, free wireless high speed Internet access, hair dryers, in-room coffee maker, individual A/C and heat, iron and ironing board, pillow top mattresses, wake-up service
  Facility amenities: The facility offers Braille elevators, an exercise room, guest-use fax machine, guest laundry, indoor heated pool, indoor whirlpool/hot tub, news stand, a sun deck, and free wireless high speed Internet access.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Check into hotel anytime after 3:00 PM. Register with Road Scholar group leader between 4:00-5:30 PM on first day of program You will be staying at Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends after breakfast or any time after 7:00 AM on final day of program. Hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM You will be staying at Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. None
  Parking availability:
Parking is available at no charge at hotel from which you will arrive and depart
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Santa Fe, NM
  Nearest city or town:  Albuquerque
  Nearest highway: I-25
  Nearest airport:  Albuquerque International Sunport and Santa Fe Airport (very small; commuter service from Denver only)
  From End of Program
  Location: Santa Fe, NM
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Santa Fe

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Sandia Shuttle Express
phone: 888-775-5696
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$28
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Approximately 70 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

65 miles
   

From Santa Fe to Albuquerque Airport (Sunport), let shuttle service know which hotel you'll need to be picked up at in Santa Fe and when you'll be returning to Albuquerque.
 

Santa Fe

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Sandia Shuttle Express
phone: 888-775-5696
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$28
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Approximately 70 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

65 miles
   

Let shuttle service know, when you make reservations, the hotel at which you'd like to be dropped off in Santa Fe, and when you wish to return to Albuquerque. Reservations for the shuttles must be made at least 24 hours in advance of your travel date, or your place on the shuttle will not be guaranteed.
 
Driving Directions
  From North and South on I-25 From I-25 (all directions) take the St. Francis/Santa Fe Plaza exit; continue to Cerrillos Road. Turn right on Cerrillos Road. Access the left lane, follow the left split which turns into Sandoval Street. Remain on Sandoval Street for 1/2 mile. The Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza is on the left hand side of Sandoval Street after crossing over West Alameda.
Elevation Note: Altitude at program locations ranges from 5,000' to 7,500' above sea level

Equipment Requirements: No equipment required, but you should definitely bring your camera!
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrival in Santa Fe, Hotel Check-In, Introductions and Orientation
(Wednesday, September 11)
   
 Afternoon: Check-in at hotel between 3:00-5:30 PM.

Register with program's Group Leader in hotel lobby between 4:00-5:30 PM.

 Dinner: Hotel dining room
 Evening: Program orientation and introductions in hotel meeting room.

Meet your study guides, view a slide show that will introduce you to the program.
   
Accommodations: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Navajo Weaving Lecture, Downtown Walking Exploration of Hillerman Sites, Trip to Albuquerque and University of New Mexico's Hillerman Sites
(Thursday, September 12)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day on paved and unpaved terrain; standing in museums (although there are opportunities to sit!)
   
 Breakfast: 8:00AM-9:00AM - Breafast buffet served in hotel dining room. Check-out.
 Morning: Presentation on Navajo weavings in hotel classroom from 8:30 am-9:30 am

Board bus to downtown area for a walking exploration of some of Tony Hillerman's favorite Santa Fe places with Anne Hillerman as your guide.

 Lunch: 11:30AM - Lunch at La Plazuela Restaurant in the historic La Fonda Hotel, a Tony Hillerman favorite.
 Afternoon: 12:45PM - Depart Santa Fe for bus ride to Albuquerque and the University of New Mexico campus. Visit the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology and the Zimmerman Library. Driving exploration of Albuquerque's Central Avenue, once part of Rt. 66.
 Dinner: 5:00PM - Dinner at restaurant at the base of Sandia Tramway.
 Evening: 7:00PM - Travel to Nativo Hotel Albuquerque for check-in.
   
Accommodations: Nativo Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Acoma Pueblo Guided Exploration, St. Bonaventure School, Crown Point Rug Auction
(Friday, September 13)

Note: Walking up to one mile over uneven, packed dirt terrain; standing for up to one hour at a time in Acoma Visitors' Center and at Crown Point Rug Auction
   
 Breakfast: 7:00AM - 8:00AM - Hotel dining room
 Morning: Check out of hotel by 8:30 AM and get your luggage to designated location for loading.

8:45AM - Board bus for trip to Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

9:00AM-10:00AM - Visit the Cultural Center.

10:00AM - Bus departs for Acoma Pueblo

 Lunch: Lunch at Yaak'a Cafe at Acoma Pueblo
 Afternoon: After lunch, explore the Visitors' Center at Acoma Pueblo

With a Native American guide, walk through Acoma Pueblo, located on top of 400' mesa. Learn how it has changed very little over hundreds of years.

2:30PM Bus departs Acoma with a stop to pick up boxed dinners at Subway.

Bus departs for Thoreau and St. Bonaventure Indian Mission and School. Located amid the beautiful red mesas of northwestern New Mexico. St. Bonaventure Mission serves the Navajo (Diné) living on the Eastern Navajo Nation.

5;15PM - Travel on to Crown Point Rug Auction, held the second Friday of each month. This is the main rug auction and craft sale on the Navajo Reservation. See hundreds of exquisite handmade Navajo rugs.

Other excellent craftspeople will be showing jewelry, pottery, beadwork and more.

 Dinner: Eat boxed dinners on bus or on Rug Auction grounds
 Evening: Attend the actual Rug Auction, beginning at 7:00 PM.

Bus travels on to Gallup, NM with hotel check-in about 9:00 PM.
   
Accommodations: Comfort Suites Gallup
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Window Rock Tribal Park, Navajo Tribal Museum and Library, Hubbell Trading Post, Presentation by Navajo Nation representative
(Saturday, September 14)

Note: Walking up to one mile over the course of the day; standing up to an hour at a time at museums and at tribal park
   
 Breakfast: Check out of hotel by 8:00AM. Bus departs by 8:15AM for Earl's, one of the most popular restaurants in Gallup. This facility dates back to the days of Rt. 66 and specializes in comfort food.
 Morning: Travel to Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona. At Window Rock, visit Navajo Tribal Museum, the Library, Visitors' Center and Window Rock Tribal Park.
 Lunch: Lunch at Navajo Nation Inn at Window Rock.
 Afternoon: Bus continues on to Chinle with a stop at Hubble Trading Post. You'll be here on a special day. Tthis date is set aside yearly for the Friends of Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site in partnership with the National Park Service to conduct one of the Native American Art Auctions at the park. Over 400 items will be offered in each auction, including contemporary and antique Navajo weavings, Pueblo Katsina dolls, pottery, paintings, carvings and baskets from several tribes, ranging in price from just $20 to over $4,000. You certainly don't have to purchase anything, but it's an amazing opportunity to see some of the best Native American art you may ever have the opportunity to behold. In addition to the auction, the Hubble Trading Post will be open throughout the day. Arts, crafts, and food vendors will be on-site for your enjoyment. Bus will depart for Thunderbird Lodge at time set by bus driver and your guide/group leader. Hotel check-in and free time until dinner.
 Dinner: Dinner at Thunderbird Lodge's cafeteria.
 Evening: Evening time TBD - Anne Hillerman and Don Strel will either do a presentation or you may have a quiet evening to relax. It's their call and yours!
   
Accommodations: Thunderbird Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Rim Exploration of Canyon de Chelly, Video Featuring a Tony Hillerman Book
(Sunday, September 15)

Note: Walking over uneven paved and unpaved terrain up to one mile over course of the day.
   
 Breakfast: Thunderbird Lodge cafeteria
 Morning: Driving exploration of the rim of Canyon de Chelly
 Lunch: Thunderbird Lodge cafeteria.
 Afternoon: 2:45PM - Board bus for Magical Mystery Tour. This tour is optional but if you have an interest in seeing beautiful scenery you won't otherwise see, and if you want some spectacular photo ops with Don Strel, you will want to go!
 Dinner: 4:30PM - Bus departs for dinner destination. Dinner at The Junction -one of Chinle's rather off-beat restaurants. It isn't fancy, but the food is okay!
 Evening: Bus returns to hotel after dinner. Video in hotel meeting room featuring one of Tony Hillerman's books.
   
Accommodations: Thunderbird Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Guided visit to Hopi Country in north eastern Arizona, followed by travel to Moenkopi Lodge.
(Monday, September 16)

Note: Walking up to two miles over the course of the day in various areas of Hopi villages.
   
 Breakfast: Hotel check-out and breakfast from 7:00-8:00 AM at Thunderbird Lodge Cafeteria. Pick up box lunches in lobby before departure.
 Morning: 8:30AM - Bus will depart on trip through northern Arizona for a visit to the Hopi Nation. A Hopi guide will take group to an area called First Mesa, Second Mesa and Third Mesa, divided into 12 villages in four regions.

You'll meet, with your guide, artists who perpetuate traditions and culture of the Hopi, including Kachina doll carvers, basket makers, silversmiths and other artists who can explain the significance of the art.

In the Hopi villages, original homes are still intact and have been continuously occupied for over a thousand years.

 Lunch: Lunch at selected site
 Afternoon: Hopi visit will continue in the afternoon.

Bus will travel on to Moenkopi Lodge, a hotel owned & operated by the Hopi Nation later in the day, with hotel check in about 5:30 PM.

 Dinner: Dinner at new restaurant close to the Moenkopi Lodge, the Tuuvi Cafe in Tuba City. Dinner will be from 6:00 - 7:00 PM
 Evening: 7:45PM - 9:45PM: Watch the "Dark Wind" Hillerman movie in the hotel classroom.
   
Accommodations: Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Full day guided bus and walking expedition of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
(Tuesday, September 17)

Note: Walking short distances on paved and well-groomed trails.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast in the hotel dining room and check-out.Group leader will pick up box lunches from the Moenkopi Lodge restaurant.
 Morning: 9:30AM - Bus departs for trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
 Lunch: Lunch will be at a lovely picnic spot near the Desert View Watchtower area.
 Afternoon: Continue to explore the South Rim area on foot and/or by bus as time permits.
 Dinner: Meet on the porch of the El Tovar Hotel at 4:45 PM. This is an early dinner time, but it's the only way we can get a group into El Tovar! Please be on time! Dinner will be in the dining room. Afterwards, depart for check-in at the Cameron Trading Post & Lodge.
 Evening: Evening will be free for rest and relaxation.
   
Accommodations: Cameron Trading Post & Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Kayenta and Navajo Cultural Center/Tuba City and Trading Post/Cameron Trading Post
(Wednesday, September 18)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day over paved and unpaved terrain; standing in cultural centers and trading post up to one hour at any given location
   
 Breakfast: Hotel dining room
 Morning: Bus departs for Tuba City, AZ, named after a Hopi chief "Tuve." This is the administrative center for the western portion of the Navajo Nation. You will visit the Tuba City Trading Post and the Navajo Nation interactive museum.
 Lunch: Lunch at Burger King in Tuba City. This is a very special place, which you'll realize after seeing the place and speaking with the owner.

The food is Burger King standard fare, but what you'll see and hear is anything but standard!

 Afternoon: Travel to Kayenta
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
 Evening: Free evening or optional John Ford classic movie at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Kayenta Monument Valley Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Navajo guided full-day exploration of Monument Valley on 4X4 vehicles.
(Thursday, September 19)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day over uneven paved and unpaved terrain; getting on and off bus at locations on Monument Valley exploration; standing at some locations while guide explains area
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: 7:15 AM -Depart for a full-day exploration of Monument Valley with Navajo guides; arranged by Gouldings' Lodge. We advise you to cover up so you don't get sunburned (use a lot of sunscreen, too) and make sure you have a hat to cover your head. Some people bring masks used for people with allergies to keep from breathing in dust generated by the vehicles. Make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothing!
 Lunch: Eat lunch at a specially selected site in Monument Valley. Lunch will be prepared by your Gouldings' Native American guides - if you need a vegetarian cuisine, the guides are all prepared for you with veggie burgers, etc. This is a fun experience and we've never had anyone complain about the food!
 Afternoon: Upon return to the Lodge, you'll have a little free time to look around the hotel, sit and relax in the lobby or visit the Trading Post on the premises.
 Dinner: Dinner will be at the Goulding's Lodge dining room at time to be announced. After dinner, return to the Kayenta Monument Valley Inn for the night.
 Evening: Free evening
   
Accommodations: Kayenta Monument Valley Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Bluff Fort Historic Site, Edge of the Cedars State Park and Dinosaur Museum in Blanding. Short hike in Sand Canyon to see early Pueblo ruins.
(Friday, September 20)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day on paved and unpaved terrain.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Your group leader will give you information regarding luggage and departure.
 Morning: 9:30AM - Special talk about Goulding's Lodge in the hotel meeting space.
 Lunch: Stop in Bluff, Utah for lunch at the Twin Rocks Cafe.
 Afternoon: Our excursion will take us to Bluff Fort Historic Site, then on to Blanding, which specializes in feathered dinosaurs. On the way to Cortez, we will visit the Sand Canyon for a short hike to enjoy a great view of early Pueblo ruins. Arrive at the Baymont Inn & Suites in Cortez at approximately 4:30PM.
 Dinner: 5:30-7:00PM: Dinner at Nero's Restaurant in Cortez.
 Evening: 7:00PM - Bus returns to the hotel
   
Accommodations: Baymont Inn and Suites Cortez
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Anasazi Heritage Center, Shiprock, Toadlena Trading Post
(Saturday, September 21)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day over paved and unpaved terrain; getting on and off bus several times; standing in some areas during guided explorations
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: 8:00AM - Hotel check-out. Luggage out in front of the hotel. Bus departs at 8:30AM en route to pick up box lunches at Once Upon a Sandwich. From there, we continue on to the Anasazi Heritage Center.
 Lunch: Box lunches at the Center's picnic area.
 Afternoon: Bus travels on to Shiprock, which is a lovely photo opportunity. After Shiprock, we'll stop for a visit at the Toadlena Trading Post. Then its on to Gallup, with a few stops along the way as designated by Anne Hillerman and Don Strel.Arrive in Gallup by 4:00PM for a brief talk by a local expert on the city's rich heritage, the Intertribal Ceremonial and Tony Hillerman's connection.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant followed by check in at the hotel.
 Evening: Free Evening
   
Accommodations: Comfort Suites Gallup
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Zuni Pueblo, El Morro National Monument, El Malpais, Rt. 66 Casino Truck Stop
(Sunday, September 22)

Note: Walking up to two miles over course of the day over paved and unpaved terrain; getting on and off bus several times; standing in some areas during guided explorations
   
 Breakfast: Check out of the hotel and board the bus for departure to Zuni Pueblo. 8:30AM - Breakfast will be served in a Zuni home by Sunny Days Catering which is also providing box lunches.
 Morning: Exploration of Zuni Pueblo including the Old Mission Church and other special places included with this visit, guided by a Native American from the Pueblo.
 Lunch: 12:45PM - Bus departs for El Morro National Monument. Box lunches may be eaten on the bus or at El Morro depending upon the timing.
 Afternoon: Bus stops at Rt. 66 Casino Truck Stop near Albuquerque for a stretch break, a soft drink or even a few minutes at the nickle slots...but only a few! Then the bus continues on to the Santa Fe.
 Dinner: Dinner at the Hotel Santa Fe in their Amaya Restaurant. Don Strel wil have a little surprise for you that you will enjoy during dinner.
 Evening: Check into the Historic Downtown Hilton Hotel after dinner.
   
Accommodations: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Breakfast and departures
(Monday, September 23)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. CHECK-OUT TIME IS 12:00 NOON.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Santa Fe, NM General Overview
Museums and galleries, e.g., Palace of the Governors Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, Museum of International Folk Art, Museum of Indian Art and Culture, Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, Spanish Colonial Museum, Laboratory of Anthropology, Rancho de los Golondrinas (recreation of a Spanish Colonial village), Gerald Peters Gallery, Nedra Matteucchi (Fenn) Gallery, Alan Houser Sculpture Garden, Houshang's Gallery, Alene Lapides Gallery, Laurel Seth Gallery and many more. Historic buildings and churches include Sena Plaza, El Santuario de Guadalupe, the Oldest House, San Miguel Mission, St. Francis Cathedral, the Chapel of Loretto (with its miraculous staircase!) and Cristo Rey Church. During late June, July and August, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale and Santa Fe Opera are in full swing and there are many theatre productions and concerts going on in the city year round. The Santa Fe Visitors' Guide provides seasonal listings of events, as does New Mexico Magazine. A link to Santa Fe's calendar of events, web sites and telephone numbers is listed below. For additional information, visit www.santafe.org
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


The Blessing Way


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Fly on the Wall


Author: Tony Hillerman


Dance Hall of the Dead


Author: Tony Hillerman


Listening Woman


Author: Tony Hillerman


People of Darkness


Author: Tony Hillerman


Skinwalkers


Author: Tony Hillerman


A Thief of Time


Author: Tony Hillerman


Talking God


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Dark Wind


Author: Tony Hillerman


Coyote Waits


Author: Tony Hillerman


Sacred Clowns


Author: Tony Hillerman


Finding Moon


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Fallen Man


Author: Tony Hillerman


The First Eagle


Author: Tony Hillerman


Hunting Badger


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Wailing Wind


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Ghost Way


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Great Taos Bank Robbery and Other True Stories of the Southwest


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Shape Shifter


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Sinister Pig


Author: Tony Hillerman


Skeleton Man


Author: Tony Hillerman


The Mysterious West


Author: Tony Hillerman


Chee's Witch


Author: Tony Hillerman




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