Visiting Tucson

My parents were in town last week, so I had the pleasure of showing them a few Tucson trails.

My dad at Starr Pass. I forgot to bring him a helmet, so he rode without.

Later, we hiked Sentinel Ridge and Rock Wren.

After sitting in on Paula’s 1st grade class, we went out to Sweetwater to wander through Saguaro forests and inspect them up close.

Sweetwater has an impressive collection of cacti, and the most dense Saguaro forest I know of. I’m used to zooming through it at bike speeds. So it was great to slow down, hike, and inspect things in detail.

Next, I took my Mom out to Colossal Cave.

It’s always fun seeing the desert through new eyes. Saguaros seem a little commonplace to me. My Mom is used to desert trails, living some of the year in St. George, but Saguaros are new and fascinating to her.

As it should be, ancient giants that they are.

After grabbing a burrito at the Desert Spoon fresh air cafe, we went for a somewhat toasty hike on the AZT.

Thoroughly cooked, we sought shelter.

I’ve ridden by many times, and spent a number of hours building / designing trail at Colossal Cave park, but the cave was a new one to me.

It’s bizarre that an underground world is hidden in that mountain.

Good thunderstorm viewing.

Thanks for the great visit guys. Come back soon!