RECREATION

A Sojourn at Snowbowl

March 9, 2022 | Sean Davis

My history with Snowbowl started sometime in the late 1980s. From my hometown of Kingman, Flagstaff and Snowbowl were the closest ski sites. I’ve seen Snowbowl during some of its best conditions, as in the winter of 1992–93, when I almost failed out of University of Arizona because of the massive amounts of snow that led me not to attend as many classes as I should have. I have seen it in not-so-favorable seasons as well.

The constant in this whole equation is I’ve always had a great day regardless of conditions. My last trip, in February 2022, was no exception: two fun days on the mountain, not a lot of snow, but there was complete coverage and no bare spots. I was there on a Monday and Tuesday. The lines were non existent—just slide right up and get on a lift. The newer Arizona Gondola gets you up top promptly, with an option of a six-pack chair or enclosed compartment. Once up top, take in the view. You are standing next to Agassiz, the second highest peak in Arizona. Next to it is the highest peak, Mount Humphreys, at 12,636 feet above sea level worth the trip up for the view alone.

The San Francisco Peaks. Photograph by Sean Davis.

The view is not what we came for, though, so we strapped into our boards and started down. I was riding with a friend and his son, as well as some other college-aged kids. The group was mostly somewhere between intermediate and advanced, so we moved quickly. It was clear the day was going to be about blazing fast laps, and it was—as many as you wanted until your legs don’t do as you tell them. We took a midday stop to sample the bar, with a stunner of a Bloody Mary. The bartender told me that they make their own mix, and it shines through.

The combination of tired legs, another day ahead, and the lift about to be done led us to head for Basecamp at Snowbowl, located right at the base of the turn to head up the mountain to the slopes. I’ve driven past this place hundreds of times, but I hadn’t stopped, and I was pleasantly surprised with this gem of a spot. Newly renovated, the cabins are modern and cozy. A gas-fired stove, the source of heat, adds to the character of the space, as does a very comfortable bed.

The boys headed back to town while my friend and I wandered over to the bar and grill on property, with a great selection of beer and a fully stocked bar. This place ended up being our sanctuary, since we happened to be there on the 14th of February. Not quite grasping the depth of this day, as men may do from time to time, we were left without a place to eat. Everyplace was booked and there was no chance of getting in anywhere, except the bar and grill right next to my room. The food was solid and the staff was great, so it turned out to be a good choice.

The chair lift and an inviting slope. Photograph by Sean Davis.

A caveat for anyone planning to go to Snowbowl: plan ahead. Get your lift tickets online as far in advance as possible. The pricing gets fairly steep, and those not prepared will feel the wrath of trying to pay for a new gondola. Get there early. On busy days, weekends especially, the lots fill up quickly, and I have seen the shuttle lot at the base completely full and waiting for cars to come down before anyone else can go up. Have your rental needs reserved, and include a helmet. Day two of the trip would see a skier without a helmet airlifted after an encounter with a tree. Although it was an awful situation, the ski patrol and mountain staff handled the situation with absolute professionalism.

I plan to return to Arizona Snowbowl for many seasons to come, and I will also be hanging at my new favorite après ski place, Basecamp at Snowbowl.

For more information on Snowbowl’s schedules and fees, see here.

Zócalo Magazine – May 2018

May 3, 2018 | Zocalo Staff

Horticultural Notes from an Urban Epicurean

September 5, 2015 | Jared McKinley

Urban Epicurean Grab a beer and a trowel and get into the garden! The summer is technically over this month and even though some days it feels like the autumnal equinox is a big lie, the garden is gearing up for the shorter days, cooler temperatures, and is getting ready to provide you with a season of fresh vegetables. It’s time to plant.

The left over warm season plants will still produce. Some may, in fact, be reinvigorated by the cooler weather. Peppers, eggplant, basil…many will still be giving you lots of of return for keeping them watered and cared-for through the hot summer months. But maybe that tomato plant isn’t really producing much, sprawling all over and taking up precious space. Maybe you cannot eat another Armenian cucumber even if you were forced at gunpoint. Many people, despite knowing better, will keep these plants going, watering them, letting them take up room instead of planting new fall crops. Practice discernment and pull those plants up. Make some room for the new season.

Plant Now

Suggested below are cool-season crops you can plant now and throughout the cool season. Common and maybe less familiar crops are listed here; if you aren’t familiar with one, google it or start reading seed catalogs and expand your horizons.

Greens

Lettuce, arugula, leaf chicories (escarole, endive, puntarelle, frisée, radicchio), asian greens (bok choi, tatsoi, napa cabbage, mizuna, mibuna, garland greens), sorrel, nasturtium, mache, cress, miner’s lettuce, spinach and celery can all be planted now. Most prefer well-amended garden soil and be sure your beds are in at least a half day of direct sun–in my opinion full sun is optimal. Some greens may prematurely bolt (go to seed). This early in the season you can look for “bolt resistant” and “heat tolerant” varieties (listed on seed packets or in catalogs). You can continue to plant greens throughout the winter until about late April or May (some crops and varieties last longer into the season). You can find these plants at your local plant nursery (please support local) in 6-packs or single 4” pots, normally. But you can find a lot more variety if you order seed packets (seed sources listed at end of article). Plant directly into the garden as per instructions on the packet. The rule of thumb is to plant about as deep as the size of the seed; as seedlings emerge, thin them to accommodate the mature size of each plant (add the seedlings you thin to your salad as microgreens).

Root Vegetables

Carrots, radishes, beets, turnips, burdock, parsley root, celeriac, chicory, salsify, scorzonera, and rutabaga can all be planted. Plant and seed as described above. The primary difference with root crops is that you want to ensure that you don’t have soil that is too rich–you will end up with lots of green tops but root development will be weak. Garden beds that are on the sandy side are great for these crops.

Cole Crops

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, rapini, kale, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and collards are all related, in fact they are all the same species (Brassica oleraceae). Treat them as you would greens by providing nutrient-rich garden soil.

Alliums

These are the plants in the onion family: the various bunching and bulb-producing onions, garlic, elephant garlic, Egyptian walking onion, shallots, leeks, chives, Chinese chives can be found in nurseries and catalogs this time of year as sets (dried bulbs), starts (green bulbs sold in bunches) or as plants in containers. The multiplyer types are best planted in a permanent location as they will keep growing year after year, whereas the single bulb-type alliums will be harvested next late spring/early summer when the tops dry back.

Legumes

While many plants in the bean family are grown in the summer, some prefer the cool season. Garbanzos, favas, lentils and peas are perfect to plant right now. Make sure you don’t plant them close to the root vegetables (they are associated with microorganisms that increase nitrogen in the soil which make root crops grow more leaves than roots), and generally they also prefer soil that is not as enriched as the greens and cole crops.

Cool-Season Herbs

These are grown just like greens and in fact, in my opinion, many of these herbs are just greens with more aroma. Best from seed, plant parsley, cilantro, chervil, dill, lovage, anise, caraway, fennel, borage and salad burnet.

Other Vegetables and Herbs

Most of these are perennials (plants that live more than one season) so give them a permanent location and room to grow. Asparagus can be planted this time of year but make sure you give them lots of room, far away from the other plants. They are normally found in catalogs and nurseries as crowns (bulblike structures with roots). Artichoke and Cardoon can be planted from seed or plant. You can also plant any perennial herbs like thyme, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, sage, savory, rue, santolina or mint.

A few favorite seed sources: Native Seeds/SEARCH, Baker’s Creek, Kitazawa Seed Company, Seeds from Italy, Southern Exposure, The Cook’s Garden, Seed Savers Exchange, Territorial Seed Company. Find plants locally at Mesquite Valley Growers, Civano Nursery, Rillito Nursery and Harlow’s.

Jared McKinley is a food and plant fanatic in downtown Tucson. Follow him on Instagram @KittyKattMcKinley n

FC Tucson Is Picking up Steam

June 1, 2015 | Craig Baker

Courtesy Pima County

Midfield forward David Clemens left FC Tucson last year to try his hand in the professional soccer circuit with a USL Pro development team called the Dayton Dutch Lions. But when their local soccer community failed to show them the support they needed, the team folded down to the PDL level—the level at which FC Tucson competes—and so his contract was released. And even though Clemens could have probably chosen to play for any one of the 68 PDL teams across the nation given his USL experience, thankfully, he decided to return to Tucson.

“After being in the professional division,” says Clemens, “I saw that this club was run better than some of the pro teams in terms of the facilities that they have and how professional the environment is here, so I know that if I want to continue pursuing my professional career that (Tucson) is the best place to be.” And, since he was with FC Tucson in 2013 during their impressive run in the Desert Diamond Cup that earned the team an opportunity to play against the MLS Houston Dynamo, Clemens understands the power of a well-developed PDL program probably about as well as anyone.

Now in its fourth season with the PDL following a single year as an independent soccer club, FC Tucson has built a name for itself, as well as a healthy regular fan base with the self-applied title of ‘The Cactus Pricks.’ FC Tucson’s Head Coach and Founding Partner Rick Schantz says that their 2013 season helped to “open the eyes of the sports community at large” in Tucson and that, as a result, the local soccer club is starting to feel “like another one of Tucson’s teams…It’s not just the Wildcats anymore, and it feels good,” Schantz adds, smiling. Last year, FC Tucson managed to keep the attention of the local community with a record of 11-2-1, which was the fourth best of any team in the PDL. The Desert Diamond Cup Tournament that followed saw a record 3600 fans in attendance at Kino North Stadium for the second round of play.

Hoping to catch that wave of community support, FC Tucson has also decided to incorporate a women’s team under their banner for the first time. The women’s club, which formed in 2013 as Tucson Soccer Academy FC, has actually used the facilities at Kino Sports Complex alongside the FC Tucson men’s squad from the beginning, so the change in title doesn’t come with a requirement of relocation. In that respect, FC Tucson Women’s Head Coach Amy Garelick says that “it just made sense” for the two programs to merge. The increased funding and sponsorships available under the FC umbrella also offers some very simple benefits that were previously unavailable to the women’s team, such as the ability to travel to away games the day before a match rather than the day of.

The FC Tucson Women’s Club debuted in late March at Kino North against the MLS-affiliated Portland Thorns—a team which features a number of National-level players who Garelick says will likely appear in the upcoming 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada. FC Tucson Women’s Veteran Defender Kelly Pierce-Kearns says the crowd of more than 1100 at the Thorns’ game was the biggest the local women’s club has ever seen. “It’s really encouraging when you hear people cheering for you, or you score a goal and you get to celebrate and everyone in the stands is yelling with you—it’s a good feeling,” says Pierce-Kearns.

Pierce-Kearns, who is in her early-thirties, has been with the program since its inception, but before the team formed in 2013, she had no outlet to compete in the sport. Though a spot on an FC Tucson squad is technically an amateur position, Pierce-Kearns says she is just grateful “to get to play at such a high level and to be coached again”—a feeling no doubt shared by the majority of her peers.

Surely the Women’s World Cup this year will help shine a spotlight on women’s soccer in general, and that will likely mean at least a slight bump for the newly-incorporated FC program. Not only could that translate to more revenue for the often-idle sports complex, but it most definitely means more opportunities for soccer fans to catch high-level games here in town; between the men’s and women’s teams, Garelick points out that there will be a soccer game at Kino Park every weekend through mid-July. And, to the Cactus Pricks and all of the other soccer fans around Tucson, when it gets down to it, isn’t that the goal?

For more information, a complete schedule of games, and/or to get tickets to an FC Tucson match, check out FCTucson.com.

Tucson Summer Nights

June 1, 2015 | Craig Baker

photo © David Olsen

When the temperature rises to the point that the plastic cups in your car begin melting into their cup holders, some Sonoran Desert dwellers experience a buildup of unfathomable rage. If you’ve lived here long enough, you may have been there yourself—at that point where you feel like you could lift and toss a small car, or at least a motorcycle, just to snag the only shady spot in the parking lot. We get it.

But there are a few other ways that we as Tucsonans can choose to deal with these feelings which fall comfortably short of literal or metaphorical combustion: 1) we can complain about it, making the lives of everyone else around us just a little more miserable; 2) we can lock ourselves indoors in the protection of those ever-sacred climate modification devices that keeps us from losing all motivation to live; or 3) we can find a way to shift our schedules ever-so-slightly so as to enjoy more of the cooler, more palatable moonlit hours of the day. Here are a few ideas for those of you who are looking to go nocturnal this summer…

Catch an outdoor flick

When: Every Thursday evening at 7:30pm through the end of August at La Placita, or 5:30 pm at Reid Park June 5 and 19, as well as alternating Fridays through August 14.

Where: La Placita Village downtown, 110 S. Church Ave; Reid Park, 900 S. Randolph Way.

What: The outdoor family-friendly film series, Cinema La Placita, has been running every summer since May 2000. Bring the kids, your (good) dogs, and $3 for admission, but popcorn is included for free! Check the Cinema La Placita Website for upcoming titles or to make movie suggestions at CinemaLaPlacita.com. Reid Park also runs a similar series for free every second Friday with a number of vendors and entertainers on site starting at 5:30, and shows starting at dusk. More info at SAACA.org/Cox_Movies_in_the_Park.html.

Wander the Desert Loop Trail

When: Every Saturday night from June 6-Sept 5 from 5pm-10pm.

Where: Arizona Sonora Desert Museum; 2021 N. Kinney Rd.

What: Each uniquely themed Saturday evening in the 14th Annual “Cool Summer Nights” series at ASDM will feature three live music venues (including one specifically for children), live animal demonstrations, activity stations run by the museum’s Junior Docents, and educational and entertaining programming related to each theme. Covering everything from the oceans, to astronomy, to comedy, ASDM promises something for everyone this summer, and at no additional charge on top of regular admission. ASDM’s Director of Marketing, Rosemary Prawdzik, says that the kids are especially fond of “Insect Insanity!” (July 18) and can even buy black lights at the gift shop to help in the hunt for scorpions. “Coming to the Desert Museum at night is a very different experience than during the day time,” says Prawdzik, pointing out that the low lighting on the grounds allows for easy stargazing, and that the animals on site tend to be more active after the sun goes down. No wonder this annual event has become a tradition for many local families. Watch in coming months for “Full Moon Festivals” which will shine a spotlight on the arts.

Celebrate the Solstice

When: Saturday, June 20 from 7pm-1am.

Where: Sky Bar; 536 N. 4th Ave.

What: What’s better than, pizza, beer, and fire spinning—at a safe distance, of course. Drop by Sky Bar to celebrate the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—with live music and an always-thrilling performance by the Cirque Roots crew.

23rd Annual Summer Art Cruise, image: Naoto Hattori, Recollection 029, 3.8 x 5.8, acrylic on board, 2015, at Baker + Hesseldenz Fine Art, June 6.

Gallery hop

When: Saturday, June 6 from 6pm-9pm.

Where: Central Tucson Gallery Association (CTGA) Galleries downtown and on University Blvd.

What: What: The 23rd Annual Summer Art Cruise is the biggest night of the year for the seven member galleries (Baker+Hesseldenz, Conrad Wilde, Contreras, Davis Dominguez, Moen Mason, Philabaum, and Raices Taller 222) that extend their hours for this single evening of connecting art fans, collectors, and artists—and the best part is, it’s free to you. Each gallery curates its own events (of course) and co-owner of Davis Dominguez Gallery, Mike Dominguez, says that many offer hors d’oeuvres and live music. Dominguez says that, for their part, the Davis Dominguez Gallery will be holding a reception for the 80+ artists featured in the Small Works show that will close the following week. “There will be plenty of people out,” says Dominguez, “and a lot of the artists will come together to fill the streets here.” The question is will you be there with them?

Take a flashlight hike

When: Saturday, June 6 from 6:30pm-9:30pm.

Where: Catalina State Park; 11570 N. Oracle Rd.

What: Take a moonlit hike in Catalina State Park with the Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Department to celebrate National Trails Day. Snacks will be provided and an expert guide will be on hand, but be sure and bring plenty of water and your own flashlight. More info available at OroValleyAZ.gov.

Take your clothes off

When: Night of Saturday, June 13 until 2am.

Where: Club Congress; 311 E. Congress St.

What: The annual Underwear Party at Club Congress has been known to draw more than 1200 nearly-naked alcohol-consuming individuals of both sexes for an evening of good-natured debauchery unlike any other. Any questions? If so, check out HotelCongress.com… I wash my hands of this one.

Check out Second Saturdays

When: Saturday, June 13 from 6:30pm-10pm .

Where: Congress St., Downtown Tucson.

What: If you haven’t been to a Second Saturdays Downtown event yet, take advantage of the quiet, cool summer evenings to do so this month. As always, there promises to be plenty of entertainment, music, street performances, vendors, and all of that fair food nobody can seem to get enough of. Grab a bite to eat and a drink or just make a free night of it by catching a live show or two—you’ve got nothing to lose with this regular crowd-pleaser.

Have a “Brew at the Zoo”

When: “Brew at the Zoo” is on Saturday, June 20 from 6pm-9:30pm; Summer Safari Nights run every Friday through July 10 from 6pm-8pm.

Where: Reid Park Zoo; 3400 Zoo Court.

What: The third annual iteration of this highly-anticipated event combines two of everyone’s favorite things—alcohol and animals. Craft Tucson provides plenty of sudsy drink for the event, the admission cost of which covers the beer. Tucsonans come out in droves, so make sure to get your tickets in advance. This year’s Brew event, themed “Healthy and Hoppy”, will help support the construction of a new medical facility on the zoo’s grounds, so drinking to excess here is actually for a good cause. You’ll have to leave the little ones at home for this night of frivolity, though, as it is strictly 21+. For a more family friendly atmosphere, check out the zoo’s Summer Safari Nights program, in which the zoo reopens between 6pm and 8pm every Friday for a cooler trip down the Tanzania Trail. Tickets to the Brew event are $40 general admission, $35 for zoo members, and $20 for designated drivers if purchased in advance. Admission to Summer Safari Nights is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for kids ages 2-14—zoo members get $2 off. More info available at ReidParkZoo.org.

Catch a soccer game at Kino Sports Complex

When: Every weekend in June (various dates).

Where: Kino North Stadium; 3400 S. Country Club Rd.

What: With the addition of a women’s team to the FC Tucson family, there will be a lot more competitive soccer in Tucson this summer, and you can bet the Cactus Pricks are ready for the action. For a full schedule for both the men’s and women’s teams, tickets, or more information, visit FCTucson.com. Also, check out the article on FC Tucson in this issue.

Learn some history and celebrate freedom

When: Saturday, June 20 from 10am-9pm

Where: The Donna Liggins Center/Mansfield Park; 2160 N. 6th Ave.

What: Did you know that it took a full two-and-a-half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation for all of the slaves in the United States to finally obtain their freedom? June 19th—or Juneteenth—of this year marks 150 years since the last slaves were set free in Galveston, Texas. It also marks the 45th anniversary of Tucson’s own annual Juneteenth Festival. Indoor educational activities end at three and give way to the evening celebration, which will feature guest speakers, free hotdogs for the kids at 5:30pm, historical exhibits, as well as live entertainment. More info available on the “Tucson Juneteenth Celebration” Facebook page.

Do some stargazing

When: Every night through July 14.

Where: Kitt Peak National Observatory.

What: This stargazing program is so popular in the winter months that Visitor Center Manager Bill Buckingham says that Kitt Peak has to turn away more than 1000 people each day during high season. And it’s easy to see why the nightly observation program is such a hot ticket (wrong phrasing?)—Kitt Peak can be a full 25 degrees cooler than Tucson in the evenings. Reservations are $49 per person, but there’s actually a good chance of landing one during the slower summers. Also, be on the lookout for the Kitt Peak-sponsored binocular stargazing program to return to Saguaro National Park West for an out-of-this-world experience that’s a little bit closer to home.

Choosing the Compost Method that is Best for You

October 28, 2014 | Brandon Merchant

photo by taro911 Photographer

Gardeners are a meticulous bunch. Many of us enjoy spending our evenings and weekends in the garden, carefully observing the slow and steady changes that occur as it progresses steadily through the seasons. When it comes to our composting on the other hand, unfortunately, more times than not it’s “out of sight-out of mind” as we relegate one of the most important aspects of gardening to the bottom of the chore list.

It wasn’t supposed to be this way. All of us start composting with the best of intentions, keeping food waste out of landfills is a very noble goal after all. If the byproduct of doing so just so happens to be a nutrient dense soil amendment that is extremely effective at holding water and improving soil tilth, then all the better right? Optimism soon fades to frustration as we realize that composting is not as fast or as easy as the tumbler advertisements would have had us believe.

There are many things that can go wrong in the compost heap and none of them are pleasant. Roach infestations, rodents, and anaerobic stink holes are just the tip of the iceberg. However one of the most overlooked drawbacks to improper composting is an inferior end result. If your only goal is keeping waste out of landfills, then this is not an issue, but if your goal is a nutrient rich soil amendment, then it is important to consider the best available options and pros and cons of each.

Traditional Bin or Heap Composting – The most familiar method of composting, heap composting involves constructing a large pile of alternating layers of fresh green material like kitchen scraps and coffee grounds, dried brown material like fallen leaves or shredded newspaper, and manure. When properly constructed these piles can heat up to over 150°. For the pile to reach this temperature and properly decompose into a nutrient rich compost, the pile should be first be built to a size of at least 3’ x 3’ x 3’, which can be hard to do unless you have access to a good amount of yard waste and manure. Turning heap piles this large is quite a chore but the more often it is done then the faster the compost will be finished and the fewer critters will decide to make your compost pile home.

Worm Composting – For those without access to the ingredients to build a traditional compost pile, or the willingness to maintain one, worm composting is a very good alternative. Earthworms are one of nature’s best composters and we can take advantage of their natural abilities by installing a worm bin under the sink, in the garage, or buried outdoors. Worms are voracious composters that can consume about ½ their body weight in waste each day. They aren’t picky either, they’re known to enjoy such luxuries as kitchen scraps, wet cardboard, and used coffee grounds. The best part of all, the end result is by far some of the best organic fertilizer that you can get.

Bokashi Composting – Maybe fumbling around with worms and cockroaches isn’t your thing? That’s OK , it’s not for everyone. For those of you who still want to the benefits of compost but don’t really want to put up with the maintenance and general grossness of the above methods there is a third method of composting called Bokashi. In traditional heap composting, it is desirable to create an oxygen rich environment so the beneficial aerobic bacteria can take up residence to begin the composting process. Bokashi composting utilizes a blend of anaerobic bacteria known as “Effective Microorganisms” that actually ferment kitchen waste rather than decompose it. These EM bacteria thrive in the oxygen free environment that small Bokashi compost buckets provide. Like worm bins, Bokashi buckets can be placed indoors under the sink or in the garage. Unlike worm bins and compost heaps, Bokashi systems are able to compost normally non compostable items such as meat, bones, and dairy. If you will not be using your fermented waste in the edible garden bed, it is also possible to ferment pet waste using the Bokashi method.

Brandon Merchant is the proprietor of Southwest Victory Gardens. Visit his website at SouthwestVictoryGardens.com.

Escape: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

September 4, 2014 | Niccole Radhe

David Douglas Gowan, an early wild west prospector from Scotland, accidentally stumbled upon this gorgeous natural bridge when fleeing from Apaches in the late 1800s. While hiding throughout its various caves, he explored for days and ended up claiming squatter’s rights to this picturesque landscape in 1877. Gowan later encouraged his nephew and his nephew’s family to emigrate from Scotland in 1898.

The Gowan Trail, named after David Gowan, is a fast and steep half mile trail that takes you directly to the entrance of the under belly of the bridge.
Photo: Nicci Radhe

It has been protected as a historic state park since 1990, though the state had been working to acquire and protect it since 1967. Many improvements and restorations have taken place within the old lodge, as well as to the scenic park’s access points. Tonto Natural Bridge is the largest known travertine bridge in the world and at its prime, thousands of years ago, was more than double the size it is today. The 400 foot tunnel reaches widths of up to 150 feet throughout the interior and caps out at 183 feet tall. There are four distinct and easy access viewpoints to see different angles of the bridge and three short but technical hiking paths.

The immensity and wonder of the bridge and its outside cave cannot be fully appreciated without delving into the depths of the canyon, and this short journey will prove to be an unforgettable experience.

On a recent trip, we explored the first stop on the map – Waterfall Trail. After a cool five minute trek down hundreds of steep stairs, we found ourselves standing in front of a mossy rock face that was covered in endless bright green vines and wild blackberries. I picked and ate a berry, that proved deliciously sweet, while I stood watching the water eloquently flow into the depths of the canyon. The bright yellow columbine flowers arched overhead and dripped spring water on our faces; our eyes gazed upon the greenest canyon any of us have witnessed in Arizona. This pathway takes you 300 feet down to explore the caves and springs that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Pine Creek Trail is the best way to see all of the other wonders offered by this hidden place. It is a fun and short half-mile hike that starts out in the higher shrubs and slowly meanders through increasingly deeper and more lush terrain until you reach the majestic Tonto Natural Bridge. Travertine stalactites blanket the entire bridge from the inside out and there are small and large caves to be explored along the way, with limitless photo opportunities. After some tame rock climbing and sliding down the slippery slopes inside the tunnel, you will arrive at a deep pool with a waterfall cascading from over 200 feet onto a formation of mossy rocks. This is the quintessential desert oasis! After a nice, humid hike we stood in awe as the cold water fell around us.

Once you are ready to wrap up the Tonto adventure, you can take the Gowan Trail up to the parking lot. This trail is a short and steep half-mile trek that takes you directly to and from the bridge. Tonto Natural Bridge is only 13 miles outside of scenic Payson, which many call the heart of Arizona. Payson sits literally in the middle of the state and shows the diversity of the plants and animals that can be found where the Sonoran Desert flirts with the ponderosa pine forest.

This trip can be a one day getaway or a whole weekend of forest exploration. Flowing Springs Campground is only three miles outside of Payson and 10 miles from the natural bridge. You can set up camp on the East Verde River, wake up in the morning with the shade of the Oak trees and sounds of the rushing river below. This inviting campground is just one of about 30 in and around the quiet town of Payson, where you will find limitless outdoor excursions of every kind and stunning riparian landscape that rivals any in this fine and diverse state.

Making your escape: The town of Payson, Tonto Natural Bridge and Flowing Springs Campground are all conveniently located right off of Highway 87. From Tucson, head westbound towards Phoenix on I-10 for about 115 miles until you reach Phoenix and continue on 1-10 towards Mesa. Take exit 161 heading to the AZ 202 Loop E and get off on to merge onto AZ-101 Loop. You will then get back on the AZ 202 Loop E from exiting on 51A-51B. Exit 13 or Country Club Drive will take to on87 N for about 87 miles on the scenic mountain highway until you reach Payson. From here you continue on the 87 until you reach the Nf-583A in, this winding road will lead you straight down the canyons to the beautiful Tonto Natural Bridge.

For more information, visit: AZStateparks.com/Parks/TONA/.

Waterfall Trail leads you down a lush and green stairway with wild blackberries growing all around its dark and mysterious caves.
Photo: Nicci Radhe

Escape: Big Lake, Northern Arizona

July 25, 2014 | Niccole Radhe

Stunning summer sunset on Big Lake, just a short stroll from Cutthroat campground.
Photo: Niccole Radha

There is no place like home and no shortage of gorgeous lakes, rivers and creeks right here in Arizona. With just a five hour scenic drive through Arizona’s highways, you can escape from the city heat to a serene high country lake in the White Mountains this summer.

Its a majestic place where you can feel the cool mountain breeze in the quiet pine forest, fish in the crystal clear water, camp under the shade of towering trees and look up into the mesmerizing Milky Way at the end of an awesome day. The White Mountains and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests offer unlimited outdoor adventure during the perfect summer weather.

If you are someone who has a passion for the outdoors and enjoys camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, riding horses, rock climbing and water sports, then this is where the summer fun can be found. Big Lake, with over 600 acres of 30 foot deep water, certainly does live up to its name. Big lake is located 9,000 feet above sea level and there can be found all of the comforts of home that one could possibly desire in their 200 fee-based camp sites ($14/day). The lake and campsites are immaculately maintained and the resident camp host, marina and informative visitors’ centers staff are most friendly and welcoming to help make your stay great. A convenience store is available onsite with limited food items so it is a good idea to stop and get all of your last-minute essentials in Pinetop-Lakeside before heading up the mountain.

There are a few important safety concerns to keep in mind. Most importantly, there are tight fire restrictions throughout Arizona so make sure to bring a propane grill and lantern and get know the fire restrictions for different areas. At Big Lake, located on the Apache reservation, no open flame is permitted whatsoever. Also, be bear aware! We must coexist peacefully and this is their season to come down to camp in search of food. Arizona has had more bear sightings this year than ever before; make sure you secure your campsite and make all belongings bear proof by tying them up in a tree or just leave food and drinks in your locked vehicle.

There are several campsites at Big Lake and Cutthroat Campground is a prime spot to set up. Located right off the shore, it has dramatic views and nearby bathrooms – the best camping spots are numbers one through five. Make reservations whenever possible, summer is a busy time for these quiet little camps and White Mountain towns.

Making Your Escape

From Tucson take North Oracle road/AZ -77 and continue north for about 181 miles. When you get to Globe turn left on US-70 W and after two miles turn right onto US-60 E. Here you will see the signs for AZ-77 N/Show Low/Springfield and continue for about 80 miles until you reach the fun little town of Show Low. Once you get there turn right onto West Whipple Street and shortly after make another right turn on South Central Avenue. Continue straight into East Woolford Road and make a right to follow the AZ-260/White Mountain Road. After about 35 miles you will take a right onto AZ-273 S highway and a final right to your destination on Big Lake Road. Along the way you will find many local businesses, lakes and rivers so stop by and splash around or take a trek in “the other Arizona!”

More visitor and camping information can be found at RRMofA.com/BigLakeRecreationArea.html.

Experience Desert Birding & Wildlife

July 6, 2014 | Dan Rylander

Gilded Filcker
photo: Bruce Taubert/courtesy Tucson Audubon Society

Tucson’s urbanites encounter wildlife on a regular basis. Our neighborhoods resound with bird songs 12 months of the year. Lizards, snakes, coyotes roam far and wide. I see rabbits on every walk in my mid-town ‘hood. Having lived in Tucson for over twenty years, I recognize that the Sonoran Desert’s boundary between town and the desert is only real to humans, not to the desert’s wild denizens. Birds routinely bring the viewer and listener to wonderment and connect us back, and into, this robust environment.

As stated by Dr. Paul Green of the Tucson Audubon Society via email: “Birds are the start of an exciting relationship with nature, one where we can all learn about and enjoy wildlife and wild spaces, make our own neighborhoods better for birds and wildlife, and conserve and restore the most important areas for birds and for people, as we coexist more sustainably.”

Starting August 13 and continuing through August 17, the Tucson Audubon Society brings the amazing birds of the Sonoran Desert and Sky Islands to the public with its Fourth Annual Tucson Bird and Wildlife Festival. The Tucson Audubon Society was founded in 1949, with a mission statement that promises to “promote the protection and stewardship of southern Arizona’s biological diversity through the study and enjoyment of birds and the places they live.”

This year’s event anticipates the continued increase in popularity which has occurred since the festival’s start in 2011. The event is far flung, but conveniently centered at the RiverPark Inn, 350 South Freeway, just west of I-10 and very near downtown, where attendees can take in safe and fun live animal and bird encounters, educational exhibits, lectures and talks, meet with various nature advocacy groups, and peruse items for sale by nature-related vendors.

Workshops that run Thursday, August 14 through Sunday, August 17, will teach beginning birders and new visitors to the Sonoran Desert region how to identify some bird species, understand bird molting, identify bats with sonar detectors, and learn the basics of gardening with an eye to attracting hummingbirds to one’s backyard. This year, with the advent of the new Sun Link streetcar line, an extremely convenient mass transit access exists near the RiverPark Inn.

Elegant Trogon
Photo: Donna Tolbert-Anderson, courtesy Tucson Audubon Society

Dr. Green explains the reason for the Society’s creation and continued stewardship of the event: “Tucson Audubon started the Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival for two reasons. First we sought to create a local tool to convince those in government and business that traveling birdwatchers have significant economic impact and that the natural habitats upon which those birds depend have value in an undeveloped state. We already know that wildlife watching is worth $1.2 billion each year to our state. Secondly, we sought to celebrate the astounding diversity of birds here. Of the 914 species of birds found in North America, around 525 have been seen in Arizona, 400 species seen in our region each year, 36 not regularly found elsewhere in U.S. and around 40 are found only in the U.S./Mexico border area. So this is a very special part of the continent. The festival brings birders from across the country, and a number of overseas countries. We teach people about the threats to our birds and the places they live, and tell people what they can do to protect and enhance our region for wildlife.”

Special guests to the event include Robert Mesta, who will discuss recovery efforts related to species survival of four high-profile endangered birds: the California Condor, Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and Masked Bobwhite Quail, all with unique ties to the American Southwest. Also, author and international bird tour leader Steven N. G. Howell, author of “Rare Birds of North America,” and co-author of “A Guide to the Birds of Mexico and Northern Central America,” will speak on the topic: “Shift Happens: Rare (Vagrant) Birds in North America – Why, Where, and Whence?”

Away from the RiverPark Inn, and for an enhanced experience, there are scheduled trips to nearby birding hotspots.

Tucson Audubon Society Events and Volunteer Coordinator Julie Pulliam elucidates: “A few spaces remain on trips that highlight the stunning array of Sonoran Desert specialty birds at Catalina State Park and Saguaro National Park. If you like viewing life behind your camera lens, join our new ‘Bird & Wildlife Viewing & Photography Trip’ where you can photograph birds from the desert floor to the canyon habitat of the Santa Rita Mountains. When you think of birding in southeast Arizona, you may not think of shorebirds, but on a trip to Benson and Willcox, you can spot a wide variety of shorebirds as they stop over on their migration journey.”

Dozens of field trips (they do cost and must be reserved in advance) and workshops are scheduled with national experts.

Dr. Green stated: “If you live in Tucson, nowhere can you hear from so many local wildlife experts in one weekend as at the Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival. They will open your eyes to the wildlife in your backyard.”

Of special interest to Tucsonans is a planned trip to the Campbell Avenue/Rillito Bridge, which is a bat roost extraordinaire. I have driven across that bridge just as the bats cut loose. In seconds, thousands of bats swirl into the indigo sunset sky, curling like a single entity. Remember, every mosquito eaten by a bat is one less to feed on you! Bat biologist Dr. Ronnie Sidner will be on hand for this reservation-only discussion of bat ecology and biology. Sonar detectors will be used to identify different bat species that may be encountered.

For newbies, there will be a beginning birding workshop with birder guide Lynn Hassler scheduled for August 16 at 10 a.m. and starting at the RiverPark Inn. Here’s hoping that an inspired reader can get one of these reserved slots!

Broad-Billed Hummingbird (male), Santa Rita Lodge, Madera Canyon.
photo: Alan D. Wilson/courtesy Tucson Audubon Society

On the more challenging end of the spectrum, Tucson Audubon Society will present, on August 13, beginning at midnight sharp, and continuing for 24 hours, the Sky Islands Birding Cup, during which extreme birder teams will compete for the Sky Islands Birding Cup. This twenty-four competition between two person teams sounds crazy!

According to Kara Kaczmarzyk, Development & Membership Manager for the local Society: “At this time of year, you could see more than 200 bird species in 24 hours, so planning your route and knowing the hotspots is how teams like last year’s winners ‘Burning the Midnight Oil’ found 185 species in one day. The race is on for the 200: which team can break the record and find 200 birds in 24 hours? During the Sky Islands Birding Cup, teams compete to see how many species they can spot in a day, while raising funds and awareness for bird habitat conservation.”

If you can’t get up at midnight on August 13 and search for birds over the next 24 hours, celebrate with the winners at the RiverPark Inn on August 14. All in the all, the event promises to provide exciting knowledge about our natural world to both the casual attendee and the committed learner.

Learn more and register for the Fourth Annual Bird and Wildlife Festival at TucsonAudubon.org/festival.

Summer “Sunsations”

July 1, 2014 | Phoenix Michael

Colossal Cave Mountain Park incorporates more than just a cave, including trail rides and much more.
Photo courtesy Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Summer is a state of mind. Tucsonans’ reactions to the annual temperature spike vary widely, from predictable “Ugh! My air conditioning bill!” complaints and the planning of road trips to a staycationer’s “Yes! No students or snowbirds!” exultation. Seeking ways to chill out this season other than burning rubber towards San Diego? Look no further. Cool off (without taking off) by studying this townie’s guide to day tripping.

When the tiny shallow backyard kiddie pool just isn’t cutting it anymore, a journey to Breakers Water Park at 8555 W. Tangerine Rd. in Marana is in order. No “no splashing” admonishments will be heard here. Between the 52-foot high Riptide and Bonzai Pipeline slides plus Splash Canyon, the Wave Pool and Captain Kidd’s Surfari, a thorough soaking is virtually guaranteed. Breakers Water Park is open to the public Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Purchase a one-day or season pass online at BreakersWaterPark.com or call (520) 682-2530. Bring sunscreen!

In fact, why not pack the tent? Bucolic Catalina State Park, only fourteen miles away at 11570 N. Oracle Rd., offers overnight camping in 120 sites with picnic tables and BBQ grills. Friends of Catalina State Park invites all to a First Saturdays Concert Series presenting 60s folk band Fried Squirrel on Saturday, July 5 at 6:30 p.m. and Western vocalist Carol Markstrom on Saturday, August 2 at 7 p.m. See FriendsCSP.org to learn more and AZStateParks.com to reserve campsites 24/7 online.

But wait! First things first. Before roughing it, a bit of indulgence is in order. Celebratory scoops from Allegro Gelato, 446 N. Campbell Ave., are as important to the hyperlocal camping trip as are the flashlights and sleeping bags. Say farewell to civilization by filling up on this delicacy, made using authentic Italian recipes and natural ingredients, while you still can. Flavors such as custard, hazelnut, pistachio and fruit sorbets are dished out Sunday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. GelatoAllegro.com and (520) 207-1991 have the mouthwatering details needed to plan ahead.

Not a happy camper?
For those who prefer sleeping inside in comfort, Triangle L Ranch Bed & Breakfast at 2805 Triangle L Ranch Rd. in Oracle welcomes wanderers of the West to enjoy nature without going au natural. Longtime ranch hand/owner Sharon Holnback gushes over the “great, great stars,” which twinkle over the property’s sculpture path at night and touts Triangle L as “a good place to relax and recharge.”

Triangle L Ranch Bed & Breakfast is a close-by respite from Tucson's summer. photo: A.T. Willett/courtesy Triangle L Ranch

Triangle L Ranch Bed & Breakfast is a close-by respite from Tucson’s summer heat.
photo: A.T. Willett/courtesy Triangle L Ranch

After you unwind in the Guest House with its sleeping porch and claw-foot tub, the three-bedroom Hill House, or the romantic Trowbridge Suite, you can also explore; Holnback has made art-related activities part of ranch culture. The historic adobe barn is an exhibition space for photographs and paintings. Metalworkers and musicians mingle freely, allowing ideas to incubate on the courtyard. What a getaway! For more information or reservations, visit TriangleLRanch.com or call (520) 623-6732.

Trail loops and wildlife encounters abound at Oracle State Park, just a quick jaunt up the road at 3820 Wildlife Dr. in the northern foothills of the Catalina Mountains. Guided hikes of the Windmill and Cherry Valley Wash Loops, available with advance reservation by calling Gaston Meloche directly at (520) 638-5404, are scheduled for 7 a.m. on Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 19. A morning walk with the Tucson Audubon Society at 7:15 a.m. on Sunday, August 10 promises sightings of Ash-Throated Flycatcher and Lucy’s Warbler, among others; online registration at TucsonAudubon.org is required. Support efforts to grant Oracle State Park “international dark sky park” protected status by visiting DarkSky.org. Astronomers and stargazers thank you!

Karchner Caverns State Park, 2980 Arizona 90 in Benson, also offers educational and fun diversions including Discovery Center geology exhibits and even paleontology displays. Picnic areas, hiking trails and wildlife viewing are available for RV and tent campers. Summer gate hours are 7 a.m.-10 p.m., park hours 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and discovery center hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (520) 586-2283 for information on a moonlight hike at Karchner Caverns on Saturday, July 12 at 6:30 p.m. Visit Friends of Karchner Caverns State Park at ExploreTheCaverns.com and make campsite reservations at AZStateParks.com.

Formations inside Colossal Cave, where the temperature is always a cool 70°F. Photo: Rick Machle/MTCVB, courtesy Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Options for exploring Colossal Cave Mountain Park, 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail in Vail, are plentiful and splendiferous. Something for everyone? With birding, trail rides out of La Posta Quemada Ranch, an analemmatic sundial, a pair of desert tortoises, a butterfly garden and yes, camping, it may just be true. Enjoy Yaqui Deer Dancers, flintknapping and more at this year’s Ha:San Bak Saguaro Harvest Festival from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, July 5; learn about “Jaguars of the Borderlands” at Sunday in The Park with Sky Island Alliance’s Sergio Avila on Sunday, August 3 from 2-4 p.m.

For more information call (520) 647-7121. Exceptionally spry adventurers may choose to book Colossal Cave’s ladder tour, available after park hours on Saturday evenings, which takes visitors scampering along cave side routes for ninety minutes (hard hats and lights provided) before a buffet dinner and bonfire on the ramada. Purchase tickets online at ColossalCave.com or call (800) 979-3370.

Keep your travel dollars in state this summer! The California freeways won’t mind less traffic.