Coyote Waits was published in 1990, and really 'tests' the geographical viability of Hillerman's descriptions! The mystery centers around the area south of the Ship Rock formation (southwest of Shiprock NM). The existance of the lower rocks (painting/hiding) is due to volcanism flowing out from the main Ship Rock volcanic plug. The volcanic rocks are why a body could be hidden so long, AND why painting them might be hard to decipher.

Below are three maps: a wide area map, the Ship Rock area, and a detail map of the rock painting area.

Finding Hillerman is designed to help you understand story locations, while reading his mysteries. Plus, you learn about the Navajo Nation and Hopi!