We have been moving right along since getting back on the road September 11. We left Texas and skirted through New Mexico, before finally rolling into Arizona. The Big Guy wasn’t much interested in seeing places like Tombstone, so we pressed onto Tucson where we were able to eventually meet up with old friends during our short stay here.
We did, however, take a different approach at seeing the surrounding countryside by doing a zipline over part of the Santa Catalina Mountain Range. This was our first attempt at ziplining and we enjoyed the adventure. With each run, the line became faster and longer. Arizona Zipline Adventures hooked us up. They have a neat little venue as well nestled on the backside of the range. Next time, we might rent an ATV and run through the desert.
Saguaro National Park
Tucson is also home to the Saguaro National Park which is split into two sections on either side of the city. The park is named for the large Saguaro cacti that are only native to the Sonoran desert. Beginning in the 1920’s, the local residents and members of the National History Society started a push to have the cacti and the land protected when it became evident the rare plant were disappearing due to human migration and cattle grazing. In 1933, it became a National Monument, but it wasn’t until 1994 that it earned the title National Park.
It was later in the afternoon that we visited the eastside with a drive along the one-way, eight mile scenic road meandering through the park. An area that once thrived with thousands of Saguaro’s, now is the habitat for only hundreds. But thanks to conservation practices and the establishment of the park, the cacti are making a comeback as juvenile plants are now seen growing amongst the old timers. Fun fact: the Saguaro cactus can live to be up to 175 years old!
great images. you are really improving on your photography. I enjoy seeing where you are in life.
Those cactus pictures are amazing love it!
Maybe dad and I will get that direction again, to really look the country over instead of just driving right thru.
Those cacti are huge!! I didn’t realize how big, until I saw the pic of you standing next to one! The other cacti blooms were beautiful.