I Investigate the Most Extreme Ancient Village in the United States

[@NolanRabbit]

I would like to say. I am first nations and ive been watching your videos for a while. It seems like sometimes the energies and spirits from the past guide you to show you areas knowing you are respectful and proper

[@carolyn1900]

they totally do!!! ❤ it’s so special you can feel them. I’m in Australia & sometimes when i’m wandering i find places and i acknowledge that i have been shown by the old people ❤ it’s blessed

[@NolanRabbit]

@@carolyn1900 im from canada and was giving the title heyoka medicine man from the sioux so im slowly learning but its fascinating

[@NolanRabbit]

@@SiouxsiSioux2 yes i am first nations? Im cree lol

[@NolanRabbit]

@@SiouxsiSioux2 and you have no idea what the spirits are showing him or trying to tell

[@JSees]

Andrew is definitely bridging the various dimensions on his hikes. He has a strong connection with those otherworlds so they let him in. Trust.

[@ramonarichardson7904]

Andrew…my late mother was an archeologist in these areas. I recognized where you were. It hit me like a lead balloon- in your intro you were talking about “a snapshot of the Native people’s lives”. Exactly what my late mother used to say when she returned from her journeys. We have no idea (really) whatsoever what those events were like that changed their lives on a dime! She sometimes she would just sit down at our kitchen table and cry. 😢 😢 The gratitude and appreciation/love ❤for the ancestors of our Native Tribes out here in the Southwest, and understanding what they must have endured, would weigh on her heavily. She was super respectful and honored everything she came in contact with and experienced- it all came with a consciousness of the people were truly amazing pioneers. Much like what you film, say and do! I have the utmost respect for you, Andrew, and all your work. 😊 Thank you for sharing a part of your life with the all of us. You’re truly an amazing person.

[@Thisismetman]

Wow that is incredible! Did your Mom work for a University in the area?

[@farinshore8900]

OMG, I was so afraid that you might fall !

[@kennethtippie4416]

😅😅

[@kennethtippie4416]

I😅

[@akicitaa.8233]

These locations are not disclosed. Any time they are, they're destroyed within a few years.

[@fredboldman6818]

I've been there twice in my life. The first time, my Scout leader knew where it was, but no one else in the group did. The second time, I was the leader and had to go off of my memory. I'm glad you didn't outright give away where it is. I've never published it online, let alone even written down, where it is; and I never will. Thank you for respecting how isolated and hidden it is.

[@rickgoward9257]

It’s not a secret but because it’s more remote than others it’s not visited as much

[@lylesloth1275]

when i find it or learn of it online or from others, i will leak it indiscriminately and actively

[@kolobkolobkolobkolob]

Thank you for not revealing the loaction

[@PeterRedecop-wq2uf]

Agreed​@@kolobkolobkolobkolob

[@rookieadventurer]

Gatekeeping is so dumb, specially a place like this where 99% of population won’t go

[@anthonywroblewski1802]

It makes me realize we are all the descendants of survivors, that endured wars, famine, climate change, and conditions unimaginable to modern humans

[@srice8959]

I remember a few years ago reading about how because of our ancestors we survived the black plague gave us the descendants of them an immune system that has helped us survive because of the antibodies they had from it, or already had it in their DNA from their ancestors

[@eliaskulp306]

​@@srice8959 et some research suggests the black death et our overly strong immune systems as a major contributor to allergies today.

[@congerthomas1812]

Right,we have good gear, but what of knowledge??

[@jeckol3200]

This is why history is so important. So many people walking around in ignorance of where and what we come from and what are ancestors went through to give us life today.

[@attorneycarissa]

As I struggle to grow vegetables in my backyard garden, I'm amazed human beings survived at all.

[@christopherosullivan3208]

I love your appreciation for that fact that isn't just history but real people with real lives and all the circumstances that led to their lives on the cliffs

[@thechunkyone7118]

Absoutely amazing, i have randomly stubbled across this chabbl not the sort of thing i have paid ettention to or shared any interest in. Love this...would be anazing ti see bow they catually lived like that

[@billrobbins5874]

Stay safe that bit scary terrain. ♥️👍

[@carolthomasamazonThomas]

These aren't villages. I said this in a previous video post. These are sacred spaces created by Native Americans to house spirits. No physical people ever lived there. Hopefully you see this message this time.

[@thechunkyone7118]

@@carolthomasamazonThomas how can you be so sure...not trying to insult you just curious

[@vanman3752]

@@thechunkyone7118 Nobody actually lived there, these small structures where place to hid out and cache provision. These structures where built for temporary habitation not on a continuous basis.

[@OfTheSeaKND]

Your calm tone when speaking, really makes your channel even more enjoyable. Some channels speak in over exaggerated/excited ways, which takes away from the tranquil beauty of these places.

[@skyeseaborn1170]

I appreciate that to Andrew. Thanks for all you share. I love your videos.

[@SWatson410]

Early tribes often found water sources by observing the wildlife. If you're patient and observant, there are plenty of signs that will guide you to resources.

[@whatgoesaroundcomesaround920]

That seep must have run better in the past. Probably 20-30 people depended on it. Maybe there's a bigger seep above that just needs to be cleaned out?

[@DrBernon]

That, and also because they just walked all over, hunting and searching for food and materials.

[@SHERMA.]

what a load of rubbish theres a 50/50 chance any spotted wildlife would be moving away from the water source for the day not towards it

[@pigdroppings]

These old sites exist for three reasons only.....Defense, Defense, Defense The same as ancient European walled cities existed.

[@samoafa841]

Let’s not forget the thousands of years of habitation.

[@sharonj.1240]

Cannot imagine the effort it took to construct shelter and then live in such locations. Amazing, mysterious and almost heartbreaking. Thanks for this wonderful video.

[@user-psy1]

Я из России и мне очень нравится ваш канал и то, что вы и как рассказываете! Америка открывается с совершенно новой стороны, изнутри, с человеческой и моральной грани. Наконец-то настоящие чувства, а не голливудские искусственные постановки и сценарии. Через ваш канал становится ближе и понятнее жизнь простых людей на вашем континенте! Через это мы понимаем вас лучше, на другом конце света)) Спасибо за чудесный и полезный контент! Удачи вам в ваших добрых изысканиях!❤❤❤

[@marilynbridges8697]

Thank you for your comments. I, for one, appreciate open-minded people, regardless of their background. Hollywood and politics does not show a true picture of ANY culture.

[@HappyPanda983]

You are welcome to visit the Navajo Nation.. 🎉

[@not2zen]

I’m convinced that most people are good, I’m American and most everyone I know is basically good, however our government is the most wicked thing I can think of, not only to the rest of the world but to everyone who lives in America as well. We the people could dwell in harmony were it not for our governments.

[@carolbroome6559]

@@not2zen Truth! Amen!

[@coppertopv365]

Hopefully you don't get caught up in the conflict over there, and you can check out more of his videos, this guy is good, I have seen many older videos waiting on any newer ones.

[@kennyw871]

These cliff dwellings are mind-blowing feets of mental courage and physical endurance. I have nothing but total respect and admiration for the First Nation people and their ancestors.

[@noahziegler3478]

I humbly disagree. I have a feeling these were semi-permanent stops for people that spent all day, every day on their feet. And unless I'm mistaken in bare feet/ moccasins. When you're walking 40k to 100k steps a day in your bare feet, you have to feel extremely connected to the Earth. I'm picturing even little kids running up and down these Rock faces without a care in the world by them or their parents.

[@kingjellybean9795]

You must be afraid of heights huh?

[@Troutay]

Thank you for bringing me to places I can never physically go. First: I am afraid of heights. Second: I am too old. Love your channel!

[@sandramorey2529]

Me too

[@clydekirby6340]

Amen

[@nemesislooms6315]

@@sandramorey2529 Me three

[@born2wander2]

You're never too old . I'm 61 & a full-time Nomad off-grid guy. I'll never stop exploring. ❤

[@debrandw246]

SAME HERE TO BOTH...

[@brianclifford7861]

It's channels like this, that make me grateful for the internet .

[@murraywagnon1841]

Although the fact that I am watching the video indicates that you didn't die up there, I still find myself puckered to the max with butterflies in my stomach watching you walk along those ledges. 😅🤣😂

[@shaggy1202]

Lol...me too!

[@bridgeman11]

Me too! At times I shut my eyes.

[@notsorare]

Especially when you pan the camera over the edge If I was an enemy of these people I would concede defeat

[@lanecountybigfooters5716]

Absolutely. I keep pleading "please stop now. Stop. Okay, now. Far enough. We get the idea."

[@debrandw246]

Yes. SO AM I.I shut my eyes many times. I can't imagine the wrong step foot action.

[@JSees]

Andrew is amazing in how he bridges the other worlds and connects with those who lived there before.

[@georgedunkelberg5004]

Andrew is US in 2024, when with time, we to maybe rediscovered and thought of as the ancients. Where on the measurements of time will our likenesses reside? Because Survival is Insufficient! Art-s in it's momentary chink in linear and rare physical remains of ancestors, pay respects forward with human optimisms.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thanks JSees!

[@lornehoch8575]

Corn Man is a must read, for anyone wanting to understand why people would move their families to these cliff edges, and off of the mesa tops. Excellent use of drone footage to really show the area.

[@rickgoward9257]

The book is actually called Man Corn but I knew what you were referring to. I only corrected so that others may know

[@merlinwilliams9286]

I'm a parent. I'm convinced that toddlers live life trying to destroy themselves. Imagine keeping your three or four little ones from falling off that cliff. Sheer nightmare.

[@seankelly5318]

The ones that survive would be utterly fearless.

[@jillcrowe2626]

I'll bet that it just takes one to see the effects of plummeting to a cousins death. The tears and mourning would be significant enough to make every toddler all the wiser.

[@alainaaugust1932]

They must have used the ropes they made from plant fiber to make toddler leashes. Perhaps like today’s mountain climbers they hooked themselves to one another, the strongest men interspersed with children and petite women. Still, there had to have been accidents.

[@crashingstoans7907]

Yeah I thought the same thing.

[@mysurfing3550]

​@@alainaaugust1932 yeah but people were probably not as dumb then, since modern society protects them from themselves. Back then, being so would have meant childhood death and if they did reproduce their children didn't make it...

[@markshepardsongs]

I wish I could adequately express how much I love this channel. Thank you!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thanks Mark. It wouldn't exist without great supporters like yourself

[@BabaBlacksheep-y2t]

They lived there because of the water, and the privacy second and the shelter third! Beautiful ~ Thankyou ❤

[@AlabamaAerialPhenomena]

Oh yeah? Did you go back and ask them?

[@cowboywoodard2569]

Where's the food

[@mobius4897]

Tbh it looks cozy to me, but my money would be it was for the water, shade and defensive abilities. Single file attacks are pointless and no arrow would reach.

[@jacobgates1986]

Thank you for knowledging that us modern Pueblos still are thriving and are stronger than before.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Good to see another comment from you Jacob. You may have commented on others, but there are so many these days many slip through the cracks. Thanks for continuing to watch brother

[@jacobgates1986]

@@Desert.Drifter it's all good brotha just glad your still trekking along respecting mother Earth 🌎.

[@nv1493]

I've always thought of the energy that surrounds these special places. Your respect and objectiveness is refreshing.

[@veramae4098]

The large stone castles of Europe, always makes me realize they were very afraid of something.

[@verep1653]

Enlarging the view of that area shows many unique carvings, both above and below the ruins. Looked like maybe some square vents on the vertical surfaces. Very interesting video.

[@tyanite1]

I'm half Native American. In the late 1980's I went to college in the midwestern U.S. I got lonely and wanted to find people like me. The college admin was highly supportive. They suggested I put together a student group. It was before the student privacy laws, and they simply handed me a printout of everyone who identified as Native American. I visited dozens of people. I also had to get faculty support for the group, so I went to the Anthropology building and talked to a professor. He said these exact words: "A Native American student group? What for? Native Americans are extinct." My dad being full-blooded, and after shaking off my shock over the befuddling statement from a PhD in Anthropology, I replied, "My dad is not extinct. We can call him if you don't believe me." He said, "Well, there may be a few left here and there." In actuality, there were a few million Native Americans in the U.S. at the time. You can be highly educated but not very smart, meaning educated beyond your intelligence. Now I'm a professor, but not in Anthropology, and I live near many of the pueblos shown at 21:45 on the map. Being from different places in the country, we Native Americans have a lot of variation. We get along, however. Thank you for everything you do. You're fantastic.

[@chetubetchu]

Some people are ignorant due to their intelligence, crazy how that works.

[@mezanian]

Sometimes there is an agenda for secrecy, even now, to hide knowledge for political reasons.

[@LaGarduno]

Most who claim to be Native Americans are not...(.Elizibeth Warren)

[@tyanite1]

@@LaGarduno Thank you, Herr Aldolph. I couldn't live without some trolling. What if you were to feel all the hate you have levied against others, in your gut, in your soul, a thousand fold, from today onward? Now, how does that feel? This is only the beginning. It will get much worse as time goes on. Just watch.

[@louisegogel7973]

I’m sorry you had such a ridiculous encounter with someone who was so blind, yet in a position of supposedly knowing and understanding, or at least being open to learning!

[@Gail-ux2ly]

They had to carry every stone, every basket of soil, every gallon of water needed to build these buildings. Absolutely amazing!

[@bertgeneray5954]

Exactly what I thought regarding the timbers used for the roofs. The had to be carried from somewhere else.

[@seektruth1599]

Or they lowered the baskets down from above....

[@incorectulpolitic]

they had nothing else to do

[@jameseast8564]

Or they floated them across the flooded canyon. Access to these dwelling would make alot more sense if the canyon was flooded

[@jeanlawson9133]

​@@jameseast8564 What I came to say,, Erosion pattern suggest water,..

[@CarolineCHardman]

My husband and I have explored several of the cliff dwellings. It was so lovely to be reminded, through your video, of how transformative that experience was. Thank you!

[@eblair12]

One of my favorite educational channels. Like I am walking with an Archeologist and Historian. So respectful yet willing to go to great length to show every detail of your findings. You Share what you read and others you have talked with. Thank You

[@jeffjones2760]

I really enjoy your videos! I LOVE history and hiking in the mountains of NM where I live. I totally understand why you don't give exact locations. Are there any clues you can share that might give us "non-tourists" an idea of where you are so that we might enjoy these wonderful places also?

[@edmartin875]

@@jeffjones2760 Hike or use a drone to fly into as many canyons as possible.

[@Molly-c8g]

You and your wife are doing stuff I wanted to do all my life. Now I'm 66, and the world has changed so much. Enjoy your lives. Their precious. God created such beauty for all of us. My son wanted to do exploring as you do. He didn't get too because his life ended 8 years ago. Enjoy your video's. Extremely calming.

[@melanieford2511]

Prayers for you in regards to your son’s passing.

[@mostwantedadrian]

Prayers for your Son Molly. It is never too late to start.

[@janinelazier5789]

I am soooo very sorry for the loss of your precious son. It's been 18 yrs for me, 10 yrs for my husband...

[@alchamone8133]

Breathtaking thanks for pointing out the route with the red dots really helpful to grasp the access

[@angryshrub1]

That’s not a “No fall zone”, that’s a no thank you zone. I appreciate you showing me something I would never have seen otherwise.

[@alainaaugust1932]

It’s a privilege to be taken to places I’ll never climb. The evidence of tree ring dating obviously means archeologists were there, perhaps from the University of Arizona. Thanks for sharing what they have written about what they’ve learned. Around the time of the 12th-13th centuries the American Southwest was devastated in that long, multi year drought. Since the Pueblo and Hohokam were farmers, that devastated their settled culture. At 10:56 looking out and, you say, westward I noticed the very regular rectangles sloping down. What are these? Why doesn’t the vegetation we see lower grow there? The rectangles stop abruptly often forming a straight line. Are these the substrata of fields, long since eroded? Water and resources being scarce, conflict must have been ongoing. To add to the terror, it was the long established north-south trading paths that like expressways brought tribes from the south raiding for slaves. That is documented. That was not the worst. Whether from Chaco Canyon or Central America, southern tribes practiced human sacrifice. How much of the sacrifice they ate I have no desire to research. Paranoid? I guess those factors would do it. As for ledges now narrow don’t forget about how a thousand years of erosion has altered surfaces. Brave, brilliant people they were who made lives for themselves despite such realities. Thanks for sharing these fantastic explorations.

[@amjehle3851]

Thank you for taking me to see all these wonderful places I can no longer go. They’re still there! As for me, I can’t even walk down my very steep driveway right now; just stay on my ridge with the beautiful view. Soon will be able to wander again to a certain extent. Tanks for doing it for me until then. Problem with getting old is that you become deeper but can’t cover as much territory. No you for

[@watersipper1116]

Are those rectangles possibly rock? I can't see them well enough.

[@johnanon6938]

@@watersipper1116 Yes those are the solid rock faces of the mountain and at an angle of approximately 36 to 40 degrees. Archeologists have been in that area many times looking for things like fields etc. because those corn cobs didn't travel far.

[@NS-hs6lt]

I think the whole "human sacrifice" is a very ethnocentric view. Were the hundreds of thousands of Europeans that were systematically murdered for believing the wrong type of christianity sacrifices? I say yes they were.

[@georgedunkelberg5004]

The Privileges have been Collectively- Socially Paid Forewords with unknown human expectations in the "Public". The Arts of Graphics-Life with uses, in evolutionary sharing's ,to the needs of community.

[@janinelazier5789]

In college, mid '70s, my Anthropology/Ethnology prof, Dr. Joseph Feathers, "specialized" in Southwest ethnology, highlighting Navajo, Hoping and Zuni people. He had so much respect for their cultures... RIP, Dr. Feathers...

[@mikem201]

I literally gasped when you showed the plaster still on the inside walls. Outstanding sir!

[@keithw3577]

This settlement was incredible as much as it was moving. Your soloem retrospect mirrored my feelings.

[@richmotion]

Just discovered your channel. I worked with archaeologists and it´s so good to see you treat the areas you discover with most respect and as little footprint as possible. Being European I fell in love with the western states on my first visit. Thanks for sharing incredible sites, knowledge and history. You got another sub.

[@heaven3021]

I've got to agree,with the last comment. The spirits are always around. They have kept u safe. With no dog with u,there is something that protects u from dangers. Thank u for showing us these beautiful places.hike on!!!

[@patriciamuskevitsch8359]

My fear of heights made me look away. My knees are weak and heart beating faster. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@dwaynewladyka577]

I'm very scared of heights too. I can't do something like this either. Regardless, this was awesome. Cheers!

[@Ramblinrabbit24]

That is so freakin cool. Man I wish I could go back in time and observe the people that lived there.

[@robertascholten8173]

Andrew, you must have some mountain goat genes. I shudder as you walk over a tumble of stones. It's an amazing site. Remain steady of foot, intrepid explorer!!

[@alonzovillarreal4666]

The best Southwest Exploration channel!!

[@kamiyamayk.30]

💯

[@kamiyamayk.30]

I often wonder how parents raised toddlers in these cliff settings. Pondering how food was gathered. Game hunted and hauled up cliffs. Much to consider. Thanks for these amazing videos

[@valmel58]

Absolutely!

[@ericharris197]

Because he keeps these locations secret.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you Alonzo. The channel wouldn't exist without awesome supporters like yourself

[@ejm922]

its a much better show when you are with evelyn, its great to hear your thoughts together and see the perspective of her in the landscape- and makes the show more fun,you're a great match together

[@Michigander269]

I always appreciate when ancient native sites, history's, knowledge is documented and preserved for posterity. Great video!

[@PhxStark12]

I have been watching your videos for some time now and with this one, you have delved into true photojournalism to the extent of something worthy of National Geographic. Well done. I am from the Southwest and it truly is amazing.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you PhxStark, that's a very high compliment

[@fj40highroller1]

Hands-down my favorite show/channel of all. I hope you have many more safe adventures.

[@2coryman]

In a sense i feel very saddened for those peoples needing to live in hiding and without commodities RIP to all of them ❤❤

[@myggggeneration]

Yes, I think of the kids. What a life....

[@howardbodiford7130]

Love this channel ❤

[@ShouldaWaved]

Beats working in an office, or dusty factory, it's got a pleasant view

[@jean-lucpicard581]

@@ShouldaWaved Yep. Those people were MUCH happier with their life than we can imagine.

[@sidekickbob7227]

​@@jean-lucpicard581I imagine they where just as happy and sad as we are today, all according to their situation. Human feelings was not developed during the industrial revolution. They would have the exact same feelings as you have today, when good or bad situations are experienced.

[@meimei295]

As a descendent from the Anasazi this was extremely interesting. Your presentation and exploration were respectful to my people; thank you.

[@russelbrown6275]

All respects can you tell me about the sky people?

[@vanman3752]

I'd like to see you prove it. Words are worthless without documentation.

[@ash3rr]

@@vanman3752 do you have a life?

[@vanman3752]

@@ash3rr What's that supposed to mean?

[@joebudi5136]

1200 -1400 got it.

[@tw6570]

All of your posts are amazing, but this one in particular is spectacular.

[@longlowdog]

Oh man, you are the master of giving folk sat in the comfort of their house basophobia. Until a random KZbin suggestion cropped up I had no idea these areas held so much human history. Thank you for educating an ignorant Scotsman. However you are perhaps the one KZbin content creator I would not like to accompany for a day. Regards from Scotland.

[@pttpforever]

Andrew, I just want to say this is one of best videos you've ever done! The video is top notch not only for it's stunning subject matter, but in technical ways, as well. And your narration! So very well spoken, thoughtful and considerate of those of whom you speak while inviting viewers to think about and consider it all for themselves. My deepest gratitude and respect!

[@christophertrout6826]

This is one of the most beautiful places ive ever seen. I am a Mississippi river bottoms person.... Be here my whole life. The truth is i didnt think i would fall inlove with this south west and its stunning views and endless history to see! I pray one day i will be blesses enough to see this in person. I pray these gorgeous building will be here for my children and grand children to see. ❤🙏👣

[@matthewardison2541]

That kiva was absolutely amazing! Thank you for sharing this video, Drifter!

[@2ichie]

It’s crazy how much you remind me of my biology teacher in 9th grade. He was super passionate about geology and the southwest. He instilled a great interest in me for nature and the more mundane things about landscapes like the years and years it takes for sedimentary rock takes to erode to make the valleys we now are in awe of.

[@paulalim1476]

These videos bring back memories of our visit to the Pueblo ruins near Durango, CO. I hate heights, but when the guide convinced me that there were stone steps down to the ruins, I gave in. And then…..I was told that I needed to climb a rope ladder to get out!! I was petrified. Never again…..

[@Ali-iqq1z]

What a wonderful Sunday morning treat. Thank you.

[@sarahwalker9476]

glad to see I am not the only one to jump on these videos and just like it before i watch it all 😂

[@robmills7611]

Me too! 👍

[@denniscrane9753]

I click like then play! 😂

[@prophez23]

Always! One of my favorite channels by far!

[@gregkerr725]

Heck, if you are a subscriber YOU KNOW you're going to like it!

[@belliott538]

+1

[@Feedergang]

So cool you can still see finger indents in the clay mud they used to bind the bricks. I’m humbled knowing they came and gone long before me.

[@viladeuel4629]

I have been watching your channel for a while now, and I really enjoy your hikes. I love these canyon land places. I don't have the money or stamina to go to these places anymore, so watching your videos are the next best thing. Thank you!

[@Kens64chevelle]

My Dad explored the Southwest just as you are doing, in his younger years. He had a theory that cannibals had come into the area and killed off groups of tribes due to the fact he'd found a couple of what he called "burial mounds" with several skeletons and the skulls were crushed in. This was back in the 1960's and 70's. Due to the fact you mentioned the tribes coming up from Mexico were cannibalistic, this lends some truth to what he found. It makes sense that the peoples in the area were forced into hiding in such extreme locations as that hidden cliff. As always, love your content. Stay safe!

[@Dont_tell_mom]

You are correct.

[@louisegogel7973]

Ugh… may we always work towards living in harmony with each other and nature.

[@marklemist6928]

@@louisegogel7973 Our past tells a different tale.

[@OneOut1]

Crushed shells are not a sign of cannibalism. Just of violence. Knife marks on bones is though. He probably found both if he make that conclusion.

[@hildahilpert5018]

That makes sense.Why would people build in places like that if not for some sort of invaders.They have found skeletons that appear to have been butchered.

[@louie480]

Arizona native here . Your videos are really interesting and I love hearing about history/ culture . Keep up the good work

[@williamglaser6577]

That Ledge is bad enough in the day, but emagine in the Dark or in a storm, or after a snow fall.

[@Golden1989-days]

Noooooooo

[@darrencorrigan8505]

Thanks, Desert Drifter.

[@lawrenceklein3524]

I grew up in Southern Arizona. Your video excursions really speak to me! I, too, am aware of the spirits that inhabit these sites. I can't thank you enough for all of your wonderful videos!

[@chetubetchu]

This video reminded me how massively afraid of heights I am.. stay safe brother, thank you for all the effort you put into these videos.

[@tedshep]

I’m not even afraid of heights normally, but some of this just was a bit too much.

[@helensmith7357]

My father drove his children out to Mesa Verde. He was awed by the history and culture, and I am awed to see some of it here with you, thank you much.

[@GypsyLeeLeeLovesTheWorld]

The heights on rounded rock you just casually walked scared me! Omg those camera angles!!! I could NOT do it!

[@morningstarwhitaker5000]

Love this one. It never fails to amaze me how they get those heavy logs up there. Thanks one again for a great video.

[@bennicolson815]

I read about one group, possibly in this region, probably used tumplines to carry logs over very long distance. Even still extremely impressive.

[@dsd333d]

Did that hike in April this year with my older brother and two adult sons (20’s) I was worried about them the entire time and mother hen’d them the entire cliff face. My brother and I have been to many of these hikes, my brother more than me, but this one with my boys really hit me, their safety and the risk the elders took to live there with the safety of their families. Not just from the fall or harshness, but what was it that they would risk it all to get away from. The Citadel brings similar feelings but this was much more severe and hopeless. Thanks for the reminder , love your work and stay safe.

[@rickgoward9257]

The hardest part is the drive out there

[@leafire3]

Where is it?

[@alangross2277]

Another well thought, interesting video. I appreciate the intrigue brought about by the history of these places. Thanks for sharing what you have found.

[@deborahm6036]

Profoundly great visuals and commentary.

[@bettybrigance6784]

So glad I found your videos, I've been watching awhile and always worry bout you, but I can see you know what your doing.. Continue to take care and enjoy your exploration....

[@tombstone2826]

Thank you for respecting my ancestors ! These places are sacred !

[@gregs2466]

Andrew, I have been following your posts for awhile now and I always love them. However, this trip blew me away! I want to thank you very much for posting this. It was beautiful and the issues it presented really got me wondering how these peoples lives were really like. You helped paint an extremely exciting aspect of them. Boy, they truly had a difficult life but such a beautiful one. thanks!

[@Shalompaz-m7w]

I wonder if it was beautiful, the place certainly is, but their lives, don't know, I pray they got their reward in Heaven.

[@gregs2466]

@@Shalompaz-m7w to us, their lives can be seen as very hard. They lived in nature and such a beautiful area. However, they only knew one way of living so I am sure they accepted it and enjoyed it but like all peoples, they had to over come a lot. We tend to judge others by what we know, not putting ourselves in their place.

[@Jennifermcintyre]

I live in Paiute region and I wish there were structures like this around here but we do have many petroglyphs! I suppose they didn’t need this level of protection here which is a good thing!! 🙏 amazing videos of spectacular places!

[@Automotive_Intervention]

I go to a Paiute PowWow every year in Las Vegas. I take my son now and he starts dancing to the drum beats. Brings tears to my eyes, like you said I wish we had more structures like these. We have plenty of Mine shafts tho

[@chubbrock659]

Cedar city?

[@tomr9661]

Amaizing. It is one thing for a sure-footed adult to traverse these treacherous ledges, but as I watch my two-year granddaughter run around oblivious to any dangers around her, I cannot imagine raising a family there, and let's not forget, they possibly navigated this terrain at night also.

[@old5andimer713]

Desert Drifter .. Congratulations for posting the absolutely very best in documentary videos detailing your explorations of our American South West Indigenous Cliff Dwelling people .. More so, your questions asking "why here, and why so inaccessible ?" have raised questions amongst all those whom I have referred this channel to .. Your calm and very informative narration equally captivates the viewers attention .. Many thanks for posting.

[@MargaretWellman-Turgeon]

Good comment ~ I agree! Many thanks Andrew for your insightful observations. Blessings from the spirits, I'm sure 🙏 !! Also, you capture the Majesty of the area perfectly! Please keep on exploring & sharing these Fantastic videos with us. Walk in beauty, my friend. ❤🪶

[@1980muath]

Very nice and breathtaking scenes. Maybe if you search down in the valley beneath these structures you may find remains of all the things they have dropped from the top and never got back.

[@peterphilipsen8136]

If floods can occur there ( I don't know if its possible. Maybe on a bigger time scale) then it could be gone too

[@jeffhildreth9244]

I have been thinking that, however, the first responders (looters) have been there long ago.

[@barndog9385]

Very interesting video.Extremely well narrated,your intelligence is on full display for all to notice. Thank you for making the trek into that extremely difficult to travel terrain.

[@PeterInglis21]

Absolutely amazing. Just how and why ❤ it. My imagination running wild about the people who stayed there plus the children that would of been there as well. Wow 👌

[@nicholasbell9017]

Would have been, not would of been.

[@ItsRainingLead]

I cannot imagine how much fear the people that built that had for whatever wanted to get through that first door. The events that pushed an entire people to live on the edge.

[@SantaFlor-ud4ln]

Cannibal gangs from Mexico

[@georgedunkelberg5004]

Some air Line crash survivors, may have survived knowing of the tales of the Donner Pass People.

[@whathappenedtomyYThandle]

How does anyone know there wasn't water up to that level? Isn't that what they say made the Grand Canyon? Be more logical to have canoes or some type of rafts on water bringing those large trees in for supports.

[@CoolCurzon]

Hi Andrew. Thanks for taking us on these incredible adventures. Fascinating!

[@ericwantsbbd]

Spectacular. The kiva is incredible.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Yes, it really is a special piece of this entire site

[@dwaynewladyka577]

This shows human resilience and the determination to suvive. What is amazing is how these structures were built, without the modern tools we have today. How you manage to climb onto these high places, without any safety harnesses is incredible. You should write a book about your experiences with this. It would be a good read. When they say America the beautiful, it's true, because places, such as this have magnificent views of a stunning area. The landscape is so awesome. Cheers, Andrew! 👍🏻👍🏻✌️

[@rossmacintosh5652]

It appeared access from the mesa above wasn't all that difficult. Perhaps their lives revolved around the mesa above rather than the valley below, and they never actually needed to climb up from below? It really is amazing to think most of the rocks would have needed to be carried there, as well as logs, and baskets of mud just to build the place.

[@SweeterDreams-d6v]

To bad that after 500 years later The settlers are still mistreating the indigenous people of the land. The USA is being sued currently for enslaving Native children doing dangerous labor, besides the border camps for natives

[@59snitt]

Thank you for respect and reverence you show❤

[@carlosdanger7907]

You're an awesome guy Andrew. Thank you for all that you do for the history of these places. Please remember if you're ever out there and feeling alone that you have so many people that are on this adventure with you and we couldn't be more thankful. Much love from Canada.

[@shanefanon]

Outstanding commentary . Thank you.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you Shane!

[@OffGridBackcountryAdventures]

Such an amazing video, Andrew! Thanks for bringing us all along with you. That site is absolutely stunning!

[@silverrain48]

Thanks for these films since I can no longer hike myself, you let me see what I never will in person. Living in the desert, I have noticed one sense that leads me to water and that is smell. I would think that the ancestors who settled that area would have had an even greater sense that would lead them to water

[@Dr.Yalex.]

11:11 when you say “historically dwellings were entered from the top, but here it’s from the side” These are 2 completely different entrances! The one from the top is for maintaining climate in the dwelling. Entering from the side - is definitely for protection and isolation. Isolating villagers due to female issues or illness is also a strong possibility ❤ I love your videos thank you so much for posting❤❤

[@tracyhayer3183]

This land seems very familiar to me. It's very beautiful, with the stratigraphy laid down, layer after layer. Thank you for your calm voice and the respect that such an ancient living space deserves. I could never hike in such places as I'm too old now, so I can live it through your footsteps. There so much of the southwest to explore, so much history, so much culture. We need to remember the past.

[@Wstarlights]

I'm sure one of the most logical conclusions would be that cliff dwellings and the storing of foods there GREATLY prevent animals, rodents, insects, rainfall and moisture, and fungus and bacteria from getting at grains and the like - an effort that ultimately was worth it and taken advantage of. Keeping the grains dry as possible also allowed for much longer storage and greater abundance of preperative use for consumption. A win win win win for the Anasazi.

[@diegrinder6851]

The only rodent that has a hard time getting up there is the two legged kind.

[@michaelm1546]

Not anasazi

[@got2kittys]

I live in the Southwest. Packrats would cheerfully raid any storage there. The mice and rats can climb any vertical cliff.

[@Wstarlights]

C'mon guys, even Barney put 2 and 2 together in a song.. When those mortared caches are filled and sealed no stray pack rat is getting in them, do you think a herd of pack rats might ? Never heard of that. It's still 500% the best option for ALL I stated in my original comment - nothing on ground level or dug into it will accomplish anything cliff storage does at all.

[@jackofnone9439]

We haven't missed a video since your channel started, and I almost always leave a comment cuz I know it helps. We love the way you brainstorm on different scenarios and give us varying hypotheses for the living situations of the people of old. So awesome!!! Just be careful out there, ok???

[@katelyn6781]

I've enjoyed watching your videos for awhile now, but this one in particular almost caught me off guard. Around the 14:30-14:50ish mark, it almost sounded like there was a faint noise of people talking. I had to pause the video because initially I thought the sound might be from my neighbor's outside or something, but when I checked no one was outside, so I resumed the video only to realize the noise I heard was coming from the video itself. Kinda eerie and probably just my mind playing tricks on me. Maybe it was the wind messing with the audio/mic? Either way, incredible video as always and love seeing these gorgeous landscapes and learning about how these cultures lived back then

[@lindakarlsen4459]

Australian viewer who recently discovered your channel and have been binge watching a lot of your films. As someone who IS scared of heights, some of these are hard to view and give me jelly legs. Very interesting and love your presentations.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Glad you found the channel Linda, thanks for tuning in! I'll try not to scare you too badly ;)

[@kentdeneal1188]

I have watched all your videos. As i predicted , your skills and content each time have become more amazing. In my opinion you have graduated to the one and only "master drifter". Please be carefull and never stop sharing with all of us!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Haha thank you Kentdeneal, that is a very generous compliment on your part. I'm grateful you enjoy the videos and continue to watch

[@Quilty_Lala]

What a thought provoking and insightful journey. More so than most of your others. I am struck by how starkly beautiful the landscape is, yet how we are drawn by the human history here, which leaves a haunting presence. I can feel the imprint of the many souls who once called this incredible place home. Thank you for providing a glimpse into the past for those of us who cannot travel to see it for ourselves.

[@ralphfeatherstone7813]

Once again you have presented a balanced video of facts and speculation. Always careful to keep those facets separated. I'm curious about the placement of their first defensive wall. It separated the community from their source of water and could allow enemies to force them to surrender from thirst. As in your other videos, I appreciate your calm presentation, your fine photography, and your tasteful soundtrack. Thanks.

[@alpimarzi5501]

On one hand I’m enthralled watching this be discovered as if for the first time. On the other… how is this not a protected heritage site? How is someone able to access, walk on, and touch these delicate structures and remnants? He’s so respectful, but the next person may not be so mindful…?!

[@gersonhay984]

Love the views, Thanks for take us along. Aloha.

[@Pokerindafrontlickherindaback]

Every video is like a new world is opened up.. i appreciate your words sir all the way from London UK

[@andrewnorgrove6487]

Here I am walking my dog through the woods of Tasmania Australia Asking myself questions that you've raised 🤟How thought provoking this modern world can be ,Thankyou for your work DD

[@molliem8192]

Fantastic video this time. I got shaky legs just watching it. It’s sad that we don’t know the real history of these wonderful places very grateful for you doing all the climbing and filming.

[@lindahughes2289]

Makes me crazy

[@mostwantedadrian]

Mollie 👍

[@pamabernathy8728]

Andrew, what amazing structures & history you find. Always leaves me thoughtful & filled with respect for those who came before. One question I always have: might those ledges have been wider before hundreds of years of erosion affected them? Thank you.