This stop took some time since it is about 30 minutes off of the interstate, but so worth it. It is covered under the National Parks Pass if you have it (And why wouldn't you if you are this close to Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Badlands?). The hike around the base was easy enough with 2 kids. The junior ranger program was fun for them and free. Views from all sides are spectacular. While walking around it we spotted two bull snakes, a rabbit, a squirrel and quite a few birds. Also two climbers were on the north face.
This took a little more time than expected. It was up a couple mile paved, then gravel road. Then once parked it is a decent walk/hike up to the tower. But it was a beautiful day for us and worth the beautiful 360 degree views. Overall a good stop, just know what to expect.
Disappointed! The room was dated, but I expected that. Didn't see an elevator to the second floor, but I needed to work on my arm muscles anyway. The lobby had a strong curry smell, but I could deal with that. What ruined the stay was the free breakfast. They advertised fresh, hot waffles. I figured that meant the pour and cook your own kind, which would have been fine. But when I got there at 8:15 (breakfast room is only open until 9am) there were 3 waffles waiting to be made on the one machine and the lady at the end was complaining that there was no more batter. I looked around at the other choices (2 juices but they were both empty, a couple sugar free yogurts, biscuits and gravy and 2 cereals. I decided to wait for the waffles so I ran upstairs to get ready and was back downstairs at 8:50. The yogurt was long gone and the waffle batter was still empty. Another guest pointed out that it was empty and the one breakfast lady was very rude when I asked if there was more. She said it was almost 9 and it was gone. I pointed out that since it was not yet 9 and it was also out at 8:15 that it should be refilled. She rudely disagreed and I went away hungry. They obviously wanted to cut costs and not actually give guests the breakfast that was promised, so consider that when booking.
So cool! Easy drive through the park. There are some fun rocks to climb on the east side of the park (which we entered from). This spring was really wet so the park was especially green right now.
Worth the effort to find. Very unique, allow 30-45 minutes.
Easy to find, quick, fun picture.
This one is a must see! Take the time, view the stations and the go see the beautiful gift shop. Well done, quality art/memorial/attraction. Thank you for making this free!
We stopped in and looked around. The amount and quality of turquoise jewelry they had was impressive. It was filled with real merchandise, not tourist junk. Nice friendly people working, lots to look at but not much in my price range (which was ok). It was a good place to stop, right on the south side of Route 66 in Gallup. Allow 15 - 20 minutes and you are covered!