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G has a "swell" time kayaking

G has a "swell" time kayaking
G has a "swell" time on Lake Michigan in an inflatable canoe

Dawn on the Gulf of Mexico

Dawn on the Gulf of Mexico
Dawn on the Gulf of Mexico

Warren Dunes Sunset

Warren Dunes Sunset
Warren Dunes Sunset

Saturday, May 4, 2019

Javelinas


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"Javelina (Tayassu tajacu) also known as collared peccary, are medium-sized animals that look similar to a wild boar. They have mainly short coarse salt and pepper colored hair, short legs, and a pig-like nose. The hair around the neck/shoulder area is lighter in color giving it the look of a collar. Javelina have long, sharp canine teeth which protrude from the jaws about an inch."

We've seen Javelina at the Sonoran Desert Museum but never previously encountered them in our treks.  They are best avoided because they can be very protective of their young, and those long canine teeth can inflict serious damage.

During a recent visit to the Saguaro National Park - East we came across a large group crossing the highway.  There is also a significant amount of bicycle traffic en route to the park, but I guess the Javelinas like the early morning, too.  This is similar to the activity of ducks up north who will cross streets with their ducklings in tow.

Traffic stopped and allowed the group of about 12 javelinas to cross.   "Share the Road".








Original material:  https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/


Sunday, April 21, 2019

Sedona Arizona - Helicopter Flight


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While visiting Sedona Arizona we hiked, took a sunset trolley ride, two jeep tours and a short helicopter ride above the area.  The helicopter ride was very enjoyable.  After we stopped at the Mesa Grill at the airport for lunch; fish and chips.

I made a short video. Below is the video and some stills. For the clearest photos, point the lens outside the small side windows, which are open.

Many thanks to Tim, our pilot and the staff of Sedona Air Tours.

We flew over some of the area we had hiked the day before.

After, we stopped at the Mesa Grill at the airport for lunch. Delicious.


G and I before boarding

I was in the copilot's seat

G was comfy siting behind the pilot







The San Francisco peaks and Flagstaff in the distance




Approaching the airport



That's our Roadtrek 210P


G at the airport Mesa Grill

Fish and Chips for lunch - delicious!

Original material:  https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/

Monday, April 8, 2019

Saguaro National Park - Spring Flowers





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Temperatures are rising in southern Arizona and now is the time for Spring walks and drives. It is too early for the saguaro cactus blooms, but flowering shrubs and some cacti are blooming.  Photos taken April 5 in Saguaro National Park - East.












Saguaro National Park - East
Ocotillo












ocotillo



creosote bush

Original material:  https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/

Sunday, March 31, 2019

Picacho Peak State Park


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This Arizona state park is a popular hiking and camping area accessed via I-10 and North of Tucson, AZ. The park includes modest hikes but also a challenging hike to the top of the peak, which is 1500 feet up.  There is a $7 entrance fee which is for 1-4 adults. We visited the park on March 28. Wildflowers were abundant and the temperature at noon was 77F. However, one must take protection from the sun and because of the arid environment carrying ample water on the trails is essential. Proper hydration is critical, even in Spring.

We walked the easy Calloway, Nature and a portion of the Sunset Vista trails.

The hike to the peak is the "Hunter Trail". According to the Arizona State Parks "This is a challenging hike that involves steep switchbacks, rock scrambles, climbing up several cableways and an elevation change of 1,600 feet......."  You can go it alone or attend a scheduled guided hike. Check the Park website for scheduled guided hikes. The next one to the peak is on April 6, 2019 and begins at 8:00 am.  There are limitations including a maximum number of attendees. So check the state park website and make a reservation if you are interested. I've included a link to the park website at the end of this post.

Here are some park statistics and info about the Hunter Trail, according to the Park website:
  • Total distance is 4 miles round-trip and takes 4-5 hours to complete.
  •  Not recommended for inexperienced hikers.
  • On guided hikes "No children under the age of 10."
  • No dogs. Come prepared with 3-4 liters of water, wear hiking boots, and bring gloves for the cableways.

Here's a link to a pdf file of the park trails and other information:

ParkMap_Fall_2018_Color_FINAL_01.pdf

Here's what the Arizona State Parks says about Picacho Peak State Park; I've included a link to the official website at the end of this post:

"Visitors traveling along I-10 in southern Arizona can’t miss the prominent 1,500-foot peak of Picacho Peak State Park. Enjoy the view as you hike the trails that wind up the peak and, often in the spring, overlook a sea of wildflowers. The park and surrounding area are known for its unique geological significance, outstanding and varied desert growth, and historical importance. The unique shape has been used as a landmark by travelers since prehistoric times. One of the first recordings was in the 1700s by the Anza Expedition as it passed through the area. The park offers a visitor center with exhibits and a park store, a playground, historical markers, a campground and picnic areas. Many hiking trails traverse the desert landscape and offer hikers both scenic and challenging hikes. Hike prepared and know your limits. Bring plenty of food and water and wear proper footwear. Enjoy the beauty of the desert and the amazing views......."



Nature Trail


Calloway Trail







Official Website:

https://azstateparks.com/picacho/


Original material:  https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/