The first tour of the day begins at 9:30am. The CRIA (Chimney Rock Interpretation Association) volunteers and the Forest Service Rangers gather the people up by the cabin to get a count of those participating in the tour. As a shuttle driver, I offer the participants the shuttle if, in case, they don't feel comfortable driving up to the site (2 1/2 mile drive to the top on a very bumpy, washboard road). Usually, I commonly convince participants to utilize the shuttles since it saves wear and tear on the road. I continue to speak with the public even in the van, to listen to everybody's traveling stories.
Through most of the day, I am shuttle driving and engaging with the public. I lead tours at 3pm (if we have one, usually because of weather conditions, we have been suspending them) or lead the 10am/12am tours of The Great House Kiva on the Ancestral Puebloan Trail. I have shuttled over 500+ people this season, including leading 100+ people on tours since the site has opened (May 15th). The site's last day of operation will be on September 30th. Will I lead 200+ people by the end of season? Shuttle 1,000+ people, as well, by the end of the season? I must patiently wait! After all, this is my mid season, and so far, I am succeeding! Hasta La Victoria, Siempre.
By: Jesse Portillo