Leann and I started to take warm weather trips in January as a break from the constant clouds that NE Ohio is known for. Some times you just have to get some sunshine. Anita wanted to backpack in the Sabino Canyon area. Leann and I left early to spend some time in Southern Arizona before heading north to Tucson. First stop was Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Since we had our backpacking gear we decided to camp at the monument. Glad we did, the campground was nice, not crowded and very quiet. The only downside, there are not many trails in the area. We did the hikes around camp and then headed over to Bull Pasture for an off trail option.
This is the main trail near the campground
We had the trail to ourselves
Turns out we love the desert. As a kid I thought deserts were nothing but sand. After a few trips to the southwest I realize how colorful and full of life they can be.
Prickly pear
Organ Pipe Cactus
Nice sunset from camp
Hike on Bull Pasture and Diablo Canyon
Hiking off trail in the desert can be a challenge, lots of sharp things.
Teddy-Bear Chollia
This guy and a few of his friend raided one of the campsites. The camper stored a block of cheese and 12 eggs in a Styrofoam cooler and left it outside. Apparently the Ravens broke in and had a feast, egg shells were everywhere. I wonder what a raw omelet tastes like?
If there is a wild life refuge within a hundred miles, Leann wants to go
Pretty area but we did not see much wildlife, we should plan on being there during migration.
Bear Canyon Backpack Trip
We headed north to Tucson and met the Castor’s for a backpack trip
Easy start
So much for the easy start
Bottom of Seven Falls
All seven falls
During dinner we realized we had visitors, not a good picture but this is a Tarantula. We decided to put everything in the tents and checked carefully. Would not want to find one in my boot after my foot is in it.
These pools were above camp
Heading back to the cars, this was a great 2 day trip. I can’t imagine having this in your backyard
Diablo Canyon
I don’t think we will ever get tired of backpacking at least I hope not.
Another great trip with the Castor’s.
HAPPY TRAILS, STEVE