MikeM wrote:

No, when the OP said "I thought that there was a frequency that pilots use to
announce their positions. Since I did not have it, I elected to stay high
rather than risk a mid-air.", you replied: "the best and easiest thing to do
when VFR is to call center and get flight following".

I pointed out that FF does nothing to alieviate the OP's original concern, and
would not have helped him avoid low flying tour planes...

MikeM

Exactly. At that point I was perhaps 10,500', having descended to
get closer pics of Shiprock not long before. And yes, I was
uncertain of the proper frequency then so I did what I considered to
be prudent. Since then, I have found out that the frequency is
likely 122.9 and the cruise altitude 6500' I also have the preferred
routing according to one tour operator.

That information makes for a safer low level sightseeing flight
through the area.

I know too well the hazards of other aircraft and "see and avoid" only
goes so far.

Ron Lee