West 2019

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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Marathon, TX - Marathon Motel & RV Park
7 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ 🌙 23 °C
We are in the middle of nowhere, in a remote area, in West Texas. Marathon (pop. 500, not counting cattle & wild burros) is the second largest town in Brewster County. Brewster County is the largest county in the country with the lowest population density. The area is known as one of America's last frontiers. Marathon is surrounded by the Chihuahua Desert, which is surrounded by mountains. Get the idea of "in the middle of nowhere"?

Why is Marathon here? Thank the railroad. The railroad turned Marathon into a shipping and supply point for area ranchers. The railroad is still here today and so are the ranchers.

Why are we here? There's a nice little campground here. We've been here before. Although it's remote, Marathon has an small upscale hotel with a restaurant, a couple of coffee shops, a few stores, all on one block; plus a small motel with a campground. Quaint! Quiet! Peaceful! And the scenery is spectacular.

And that spectacular scenery included something special. Our stay at this campground provided access to the Marathon Sky Park, an astronomer's dream. There were 2 professional type observatories on the property, plus amateur astronomers complete with telescopes. We limited ourselves to just being outside and taking in the celestial awe. You haven't seen a starry sky until you view a sky rated #1 on the formal Light Pollution Scale. You can't get a darker sky. What a show!

The spectacular offerings included a special dinner served at the campground. We were surprised by a local chef making Paella outside on a Mexican themed veranda, complete with flamenco music. The Paella was cooked on an open wood fire in the traditional huge Paella pan, served with a unique salad buffet and sangria. What a surprising treat. Delicious!Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Lajitas, Texas - Maverick Ranch RV Park
8 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ 🌙 29 °C
Now the truth can be told. The real reason for our stopping at "out in the middle of nowhere" Marathon was .........going to Great Bend National Park. We're here!

Being in Big Bend expands the definition of "middle of nowhere". It's where the desert and mountains meet the river. The Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains, and the Rio Grande River converge to create Big Bend National Park. The Park is bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island. Its grandeur is difficult to put into words.

However, we're not totally alone here. The flora, fauna, and geology is significant. Plants abound, more than 1,200 species. There are 450 bird species, but you have to watch closely and listen. We were lucky to spot a roadrunner dashing across the road. How about 56 species of reptiles. We did see one small lizard scurrying across our trail. And let's not forget 75 mammal species. There are bears and mountain lions making their home here. Add all the beautiful scenery and you know why we're here "in the middle of nowhere".

There is something to be said for man's involement with all this diversity. That being, he pretty much has left it alone. Big Bend's remoteness and climate extremes have limited man's encroachment. This leaves an unspoiled landscape populated by creatures and plants large and small.

Big Bend, not to be missed!

We enjoyed an added scenic bonus by traveling the Camino del Rio or the River Road that follows the Rio Grande River through the Madera Canyon and Big Bend Ranch State Park (The Other Side Of Nowhere). National Geographic has selected this drive as one of the top 10 scenic drives in America. Another outstanding must see.

PS. It's April and the temperature hit 100° in Big Bend.
PS. A 100° day wasn't enough, the next day it was 108°.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Alpine, Texas - Lost Alaskan RV Park
12 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C
Alpine, TX, a big small town (pop. 6,000) in far West Texas. We pause here only for an overnight rest as we work our way toward our next significant stop. The town is literally an oasis in the desert. It sits on a 4,000' plateau in the midst of the Chihuahuan Desert, surrounded by the mile high Davis and Chico's mountains. This location provides for warm days and cooler nights compared to the surrounding desert. Due to this moderate climate, Alpine enjoys steady growth, including retirees.

Similar to many other Texas towns, Alpine started as a cattle town, with growth spurred on by the arrival of the railroad. A college was established which today is a large state university, Sul Ross University.

Take some ranching, add a railroad, grow a university, and then throw in some petroleum; and you have today's Alpine, TX, a thriving big small town.

It's easy to see how many people saddled up and now call Alpine "home on the range".Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Van Horn, Texas - Van Horn RV Park
13 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ 🌙 12 °C
Van Horn, TX is only a convenient spot for an overnight stop. We've camped here several times in the past, and our past exploration of the town and area has turned up little of interest. What we have here is another small town in western Texas. Not much happening here!

It appears Van Horn's lack of excitement reaches all the way back to the late 1800's. Back then, a rancher trying to increase the town's attractiveness to settlers suggested a town motto as a tribute to Van Horn's climate, "This Town Is So Healthy We Had to Shoot a Man to Start a Cemetery". Kinda sums up the excitement here.

However, we did come across an interesting site on the trip here. See photo below. We passed aTethered Aerostat Radar System blimp used by the U.S. Border Patrol to watch over the southern border by tracking low flying aircraft. Eight of these special blimps are spaced along the border to watch airspace over the US, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Carribean.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Anthony, Texas- El Paso Anthony West KOA
14 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C
We're confused! Where are we exactly?

Today's road trip brought us through and past El Paso, TX. OK? But we're not in El Paso. We're supposedly in Anthony. But Anthony straddles the Texas/New Mexico border. Officially we are camped in Anthony, TX . But Anthony is also in New Mexico, but we're in Anthony, TX. Getting your mail in "Anthony" could be a challenge.

The Anthonys lie half way between El Paso, TX and Las Cruces, NM. And it's right on the Mexican border. Enough geography.

The real story of these small towns is the people.

But first a time out for this important message! We're actually stuck in this small town, and not by choice. After two months of hassle free milage, the RV decided to hiccup. The large living room slide decided to break, again. Luckily it stopped just as we had brought it all the way in, so we were able to drive. This malfunction brings us to Anthony, TX, only a few miles from El Paso and the availability of repair facilities. We're awaiting damage diagnosis and subsequent repair appointment.

Back to the people of Anthony, TX/NM. The combined population of these 2 towns is approximately 14,000 and consists almost entirely of people of Hispanic/Latino decent. With Anthony's close proximity to El Paso it is easy to see the source of Hispanic/Latino population. El Paso is known as the "Ellis Island Of The Southwest". Unfortunately, the result of this immigrant population is not a happy one.

40% of this population lives below the poverty line, and 50% of this number are children. Nearly all school children receive free breakfast and lunch. There is 15% unemployment. The majority of 911 calls are for domestic violence. With the median income less than $23,000 a year, poverty is a fact of life.

There is at least one example of hope here. It comes in the form of a 45 year old woman. Her mother immigrated from Mexico at the age of 15. Her father was a deaf mute and worked as a farm hand and became disabled when a cow fell on him. Her mother became disabled after being struck by a drunk driver. Her 19 year old brother was murdered. And this 45 year old, who lives with her daughter and 4 grandchildren, and 88 year old mother, is a parapalegic after being struck by a drunk driver. She graduated from New Mexico State University and is now the mayor of Anthony, New Mexico. Hopefully her example provides the positive perspective of life that so many people of Anthony need.Leggi altro
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ViaggiatoreKind of like getting your mail in Egypt, PA.
21/04/19Risposta
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Las Cruces, New Mexico - Las Cruces KOA
21 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
Finally got out of Texas and have arrived in Las Cruces, New Mexico, one of our favorite spots. Our campground sits well above the city, so we enjoy a great city view especially at night.

As mentioned, Las Cruces is a favorite of ours. It's a small city with a population of 102,000. However, it's big enough to have all necessities to live comfortably while not having the congestion and fast pace associated with city life. Las Cruces is the home to New Mexico State University which provides a progressive life attitude and a vibrancy to the city.

The city has a diverse economic base. Las Cruces lies in the center of the Mesilla Valley, an agricultural oasis. The Rio Grande River bisects the city and supplies the water needed for irrigation. And the city is within driving distance of the White Sands Missile Range and White Sands Test Facility which play an integral part to population growth and higher paying jobs. Also, an influx of retirees has added the area economy and privides a testament to the city's attractiveness.

The natural attractiveness of Las Cruces cannot be ignored. Actually, it's hard to ignore since the Organ Mountains dominate the city landscape. The city is surrounded by mountains and sits in the center of the Organ Caldera. Not to worry, there hasn't been any volcanic activity for millions of years. However, the area is a desert environment and as such there are many summer days with temperature over 100°. There seems to be more cooler weather than hot which helps keep the natives happy most of the time.

Las Cruces has a unique reason to call the city home, the Las Cruces Green Chile Trail or the "Walk of Flame". New Mexico is famous for its Green Chile crop, and Hatch, NM, not far from Las Cruces, is known as the "Chile Capital of the World". The New Mexico State vegetable is the New Mexico chile. The chile is taken very seriously here. It can be found even in ice cream. The chile comes in mild to extra hot. We have eaten Mexican food here; and even the standard fare is "hot". This coming from someone who enjoys spicy food. While in Las Cruces experience all the green chili has to offer, but buyer beware.

All in all, Las Cruces, not a bad place to live. You could do worse!Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Deming, New Mexico- Rockhound State Park
24 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C
Still traveling through New Mexico, now in the remote Southwest corner of the state, and 30 miles from the Mexico border. We have found a beautiful state park; one we have not been to before. Rockhound State Park is a gem. It is snuggled up against the Little Florida Mountains. The Park is named for the abundance of minerals in the area - quartz, geodes, jasper, and perlite. Silver and gold were extensively mined attesting to the geological richness that is evident today. The area in general is characterized by lifeless mountain ranges, separated by desert basins, dry lake beds, and lava deposits. We are pretty much "out there". But the views offered in this setting are outstanding.

The area is anchored by the town of Deming (pop. 15,000), the biggest burg for miles and miles. Deming sprung up with the arrival of the railroad, but not just any arrival. Deming was the site of the second "Silver Spike". This Spike was driven to join the second transcontinental railroad linking the East and West coast. Today transportation continues to play an important role in Deming's growth with the town not only lying astride the major southern railroad route but being on the only major stop along a 120 mile stretch of Interstate 10. In addition to being a transportation hub, Deming is home to a Border Patrol training facility, the largest winery in the State, and not surprisingly, home to the world's largest Chile processing plant. Deming is certainly playing its part in "hot" New Mexico.

Deming, New Mexico and Rockhound State Park, very nice! We'll be back!Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Willcox, AZ - Willcox Elks Lodge #2131
26 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ 🌫 29 °C
We reached the farthest west point of our trip, Arizona, the Grand Canyon State. First Arizona stop is Willcox (SE corner of AZ) and the campground at the Willcox Elks Lodge. As a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, I am allowed to use a Lodge's campground. Many Lodges have camping facilities, but not all. Willcox Lodge's campground is a nice one - large level gravel lot, shade trees with grassy areas, and utilities. Great find for a one night stop.

Willcox, AZ is much more than meets the eye. On the surface Willcox is a small town (pop. 3,000) that has struggled to maintain it's presence on the Arizona landscape. It could be characterized as an old western town now going through rebirth and revitalization.

In its early days, Willcox was a national leader in cattle production and with this came the title of Cattle Capital of North America. Today ranching and agriculture are the area's economic base. The region produces 75% of the wine grapes grown in Arizona. There are miles of apple orchards, pistachio groves (2nd in the nation), and pecan farms. This has resulted in the strong agriculture and ranching community of today. There is a blend of a laid back small town combined with hard working farm and cowboy life.

Speaking of cowboys, Willcox has the distinction of hosting the murder of Warren Earp, Wyatt Earp's youngest brother, and being the place where outlaw Johnny Ringo took his last breath. Where there are cowboys, there must be Indians. Both Cochise and Geronimo called the area home.

Lastly, Willcox is home to more bird species than anywhere in North America. The town is known for hosting Sandhill Cranes on their migrations. Birders from afar flock to the area to witness all the feather friend activities.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Benson, AZ - Kartchner Caverns State Pk
27 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Benson, Arizona is one of our favorite stops. We have been here several times and for a reason that is not very apparent, considering Benson is a small town of 5,000 noted today for farming and ranching. Not your typical tourist stop. Tombstone is 25 miles south and Tucson is 45 miles west.

So, why do we stop here again and again? Food! This little town has one of the best Mexican restaurants that we have experienced, Mi Casa. Mi Casa is a tiny mustard yellow hacienda that seats only 24 in a rustic interior. This may be the only place in Benson where you may have to wait for table. It is run by a husband and wife, he waits tables and she cooks. The cook was born in Mexico and she uses family recipes handed down through generations. Saying the food is exceptional doesn't adequately describe the food. Great eats!

Not wanting to waste a stop on eating only, we found another reason to stop in Benson. Benson is home to the Kartchner Caverns State Park. As the name indicates the Park features caverns of some note. Not being spelunkers we'll take their word for the caverns beauty. What attracts us to the Park is the very nice campground. While the caverns were carved out of limestone thousands of years ago, they were not discovered until 1974; and their existence was kept secret fearing vandalism. The State bought the property in 1988 and opened the State Park 10 years later. So, we have a a new, old Park! The caverns are home to approximately 2,000 bats who are roosting right about now.

The town of Benson has a history similar to many other western towns. It was born as a railroad terminus for shipping copper and silver ore mined in southern Arizona. The railroad still provides terminal service here today. The Apache Powder Co, which still operates today was founded back in the early mining days to "Put The Boom in Arizona Mining". On the other side of the economic coin, a 40,000 acre cattle ranch lies just outside of Benson.

Benson may not be taking a nap, but it still is a sleepy town.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Tucson, Arizona - Tucson/Lazydays KOA
30 aprile 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C
Well, here we are in the big city, 535,000 people big. To make it even bigger the entire metropolitan area has 1 million+ worker bees running to and fro. This is the environment that we usually pass by at 60 mph on the interstate. However, Tucson has its good points and advantages. The city is geographically large which negates the crowding that characterizes eastern cities. In Tucson's case, urban sprawl plays well. It's all here, good food (Mexican pastries), and retail therapy. Plenty to see and the weather is outstanding.

As for the camping in Tucson, let's take a look at our current campground. It is noteworthy, but not typical of what we usually select. We're more the back to nature, away from the city campers. But once in awhile touching base with civilization is OK.

The Tucson/Lazydays KOA is a "KOA Resort". Like cities, we tend to avoid the resort type campgrounds since we don't need or use all the amenities. However, there is an exception to every rule. This campground lives up to the resort title. It has everything and lacks nothing, all quality. But the niceties come with a price. Many of the campsites here cost as much or more than a hotel room. We timed this visit just right as the rates dropped May 1 (hotter weather equals lower prices) which enabled us to get a Deluxe Patio site for the price of standard site. Sometimes it's better to be lucky.

There are a host of amenities that give this campground that "resort" edge. First, there's a full service restaurant and bar. Got to eat to keep up your strength to enjoy everything here! But if you just don't have the energy to saddle up to the food trough, there is food delivery service to your campsite. Once you regain your strength, there's plenty of activities to do. There are 2 pools, with hot tub and sauna of course. Want a little more exercise? Try some golf on either a 9 hole putting course or just plain 'ol mini golf. Not enough exercise? There is a fitness center. And after all this activity you can stroll around the nature pond or enjoy the game room.

Just want to relax at your own campsite? Individual sites come with varying degrees of amenities. How about a Power Parasol campsite? These come with full shade (always a plus in the desert) provided by hundreds of elevated solar panels that supply the campground electrical needs. Most sites come with their very own citrus fruit trees. Our site has a lemon tree. Fruit is free for picking. Need a cozy place for Fido? No problem! The are special pet sites that include a fenced in pet park complete with fire hydrant, grass, and a covered shelter. Bow-Wow! And for the human creature comforts, many sites come with real green grass (just what you need in a desert), patios, patio furniture, and for the cool desert nights, southwest style fireplaces are available. And there are "Sky Deck" campsites for those who want to see and be seen. Something for everyone!

Lastly, can't forget the full size laundromat, pet wash, cable TV, WIFI, and to get your lazy self to and fro, you can rent a golf cart.

So, one can see how tough camping can be!

THE END!!!Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Saguaro National Park - Rincon Mountain
2 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C
Saguaro National Park, a Park with a city in the middle, Tucson.The Saguaro National Park has 2 districts, the Tucson Mountain District, west of the city and the Rincon Mountain District, on the east. We opted to explore the Rincon side since it offered an 8 mile scenic drive that meanders through a saguaro forest, at the base of the Rincon Mountains. This allows for Sonoran Desert viewing up close and personal. If it wasn't for the scenic drive, the visitor would be pretty much relegated to hiking the desert. Hike at your own risk, this is a desert. Extreme temperatures can provide hazardous conditions, not to mention the pressence of prickly plants and venomous snakes. Kinda makes you want to go desert hiking?? We'll stay in the car, thank you!

The scenery didn't disappoint. The saguaro cactus, the nation's largest cactus and found only in a small portion of the US, are beginning to bloom, and many other cacti are strutting their colorful flowers. The desert does provide its own brand of beauty. Seeing is believing! We timed our visit just right.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains
6 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C
World famous for its diverse flora and fauna, Madera Canyon lies south of Tucson, within the Santa Rita Mountains, in the Coronado National Forest. The Canyon rises through 4 life zones, from the bottom desert to high elevation forest providing home for the many kinds of plants and animals.

Madera Canyon is world renowned for bird watching, and is rated as the 3rd best in the US. With bird watching being a favorite activity of ours, this birding opportunity is what brought us to Madera Canyon. As one would expect, bird watching is a hit and miss endeavor. You get what you get! At least seeing birds here provides a chance to see species not seen back east. We were rewarded with some new sightings, and some not so new. There is a bird watching area with feeders provided by a lodge and open to everyone. To our surprise we were greeted by a flock of Wild Turkey, pecking leftovers off the ground from various bird feeders. Not so new since we can see turkeys in our backyard at home. But we did see several "western" birds. Watching these colorful feathered friends provides an opportunity for some very quiet, relaxing time.Leggi altro
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West 2019 Viaggiatore
Oro Valley, AZ - Catalina State Park
7 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C
Still nearTucson, AZ, but have moved northward to Catalina State Park in Oro Valley, AZ. This Park is one of our favorites which explains stopping here after only a few miles trip from our last stop.

Both Tucson and Oro Valley have grown so much you can't tell where one begins and one ends. But as you drive through Oro Valley the difference becomes apparent. Oro Valley has been dubbed the "Upscale Tech Mecca" with over 10 high tech firms. With this comes a median income 50% higher than the US median. This explains the plethora of eating and shopping opportunities. All of this is nice, but it is Catalina State Park that is the real gem here.

The Park, adjacent to the Coronado National Forest, is nestled against the western slopes of the Catalina Mountains. Saguaro cacti abound in the surrounding plateau areas. Nature watching is the norm here. Birds are everywhere. We have a very vocal Gila Woodpecker who sits at the very top of a saguaro cactus, singing his/ her heart out. Cute furry ground squirrels scurry about seeking shade and food. And we have little lizards looking for a warm spot to relax. Also, can't forget the butterflies.

Oro Valley hasn't always been so populated and busy. Back in the day farming, ranching, and mining dotted the landscape. To keep things interesting Apache Indians stirred up things. But civilization gradually tamed the area. The 5,000 acre ranch, Rancho Romero, aided in settling the area and provided the land for the now Catalina State Park.Leggi altro
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Picacho, AZ - Picacho Peak State Park
11 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C
Picacho Peak State Park is one of our favorite stops. So, while we traveled only 35 miles from our last stop, we had to stop at one of our favorites again.

The draw here is the scenery. It can't be anything else since there is nothing else here, except for a gas station and a Diary Queen off the interstate. The State Park surrounds its namesake, Picacho Peak. The Peak, all 1,500' of it, is a prominent point in southern Arizona that is hard to miss. As such, Picacho Peak has been used as a landmark for travelers for centuries.

Mormans on their way to California constructed a wagon road through Picacho Pass. Miners seeking riches in California used the same road. The famous Butterfield Overland Stage made the Peak a stop. The Peak was witness to the farthest west Civil War battle, the Battle of Picacho Pass.

Today travelers and campers come to enjoy the wildflower blooms in the Spring, hiking throughout the Park including treking to the Peak summit, and the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert.Leggi altro
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Cave Creek, AZ -Cave Creek Regional Park
14 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C
Continuing north we have passed by Phoenix, AZ and now are camped at the Cave Creek Regional Park in Cave Creek, AZ. Cave Creek, described as a Desert Oasis, is north of and bordering Phoenix. But we're still in a desert environment, specifically the upper Sonoran Desert. Other than being surrounded by cactus, we can tell we're in the desert by the temperature. It's 103°. The AC in the RV is giving all its got.

Our stop at this particular campground is due to it being secluded and thus quiet. Plus it is very nice. Also, It's unique in that we're in a County Park. Don't generally see a campground in a county facility, but you do in the West. Certainly is a good way for the government to make some extra money while providing the public with a nice place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Nothing too special about the town of Cave Creek. It can be characterized as an upscale bedroom community for the Phoenix "worker bees" to demonstrate their daily commute expertise. This general area was once the Indian wild West, featuring the feared Apaches. The Apache gradually gravitated westward to the Arizona Territory and once here were not receptive to miners and farmers trying to settle in their backyard. Over a 20 year period (1860's & 1870's) Indian attacks were the norm. In 1873 a fierce battle was fought between the Apache and the US military at a high hanging bluff along a creek bank that forms a wide open cavern. This was Cave Creek. And here we are today in the town of Cave Creek and now you know the rest of the story.Leggi altro
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Sonoran Desert, Arizona
17 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C
We have been talking a lot about the Saguaro Cactus and posting many pictures. It can be said that the Saguaro exemplifies Arizona in general and specifically the Sonoran Desert. They grow only in the Sanoran Desert and are known as the Master of Desert Survival.

So, it's time for a just a little Cactus 101. The Saguaro, found only in the US Southwest and northwest Mexico, routinely live for 150-200 years. They grow their first side arm from 75-100 years of age. Saguaro are slow growing. At 10 years old they are only 1 1/2 inches tall. By 70 years of age, the Saguaro can reach 6 1/2' tall and start producing their first flowers. At 75-100 years the reach a height of 15'-16' tall. In their old age, they can be upwards of 45' tall.

These cacti are certainly majestic. Staring at the big boy next to our campsite is awe inspiring when you think this particular Saguaro is well over 100 years old. The things that have pasted its way over the years! It does stir the imagination.Leggi altro
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Clarkdale, AZ - Rain Spirit RV Resort
18 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C
Clarkdale, AZ! Why here? Answer is, we just need a place to stop with possible exploration opportunities. Plus, the campground that we are staying in was calling to us. It's new, relatively small, has all the amenities, and offers some spectacular views of some gorgeous scenery. And it has a nice name, Rain Spirit.

This area consists of 3 closely situated towns - Cottonwood, Clarkdale, and Jerome. Of the three, Cottonwood is by far the largest. It provides the majority of the commercial, retail, and service needs of the area. Cottonwood also provides a unique shopping area called "Old Town" consisting of several blocks of retail therapy opportunities within historic buildings. Cottonwood came to be as a result of residents seeking freedom from the "company town" regulations found in Clarkdale and Jerome.

The 3 towns are situated in the Verde Valley, which is the geographic center of Arizona. The Verde River runs through it and 80% of the Valley is National Forest. This provides for natural beauty that is augmented by red rocks, hills, and mountains. Sedona and its Red Rock beauty is a short drive away.

The real story here lies with the towns of Jerome and Clarkdale. Early in the 20th century, these towns were the epicenter of the copper mining industry. Jerome was a roaring boom town and home to one of the largest copper mines in the world. Back in the day Jerome was the 3rd largest town in Arizona. Today mining is gone and the town exists on tourism and a cement mill. Clarkdale was created after the copper smelter in Jerome had to be moved when high grade copper ore was found beneath it. A new smelter and town, Clarkdale, were built. Clarkdale, named after the mine owner, was a true company town. It was one of the most technological advanced towns of its time, having luxurious amenities of telephone, electricity, sewer, an water systems. A true planned community. Today Clarkdale is known as a "Former Company Town".Leggi altro
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Flagstaff, Arizona - Flagstaff KOA
22 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 6 °C
Leaving the desert Southwest, but still in Arizona. Now in the far northern part of the state, the High Desert, home to the city of Flagstaff. For Flagstaff "desert" means an annual average of 277 days without precipitation. Never fear, it does precipitate. How about an average annual snowfall of 100 inches? The record snowfall for one day is 36 inches! There are 66,000 people living in Flagstaff that appear not to mind the weather.

Flagstaff was founded based upon the railroad, lumber, and ranching. All still here, but now the city is known for its astronomical pressence. The city is the world's first International Dark Sky City which explains why the famous Lowell Observatory (discovered Pluto & helped with the Apollo moon landings) is here; and the US Naval Observatory also. Flagstaff being at a 7000 foot elevation only adds to the city's heavenly attributes.

Today the city's attraction is its natural environment and all the four season outside activities. Flagstaff is on a mountain and is surrounded by ancient volcanoes in the heart of the Coconino National Forest. It sits next to the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in North America. A lot of natural beauty here to enjoy.

Trivia 101 - how did Flagstaff get its name? In 1876, a very tall flag pole was made from a perderosa pine tree and used to celebrate the nation's centennial. That's it! Believe it or not!
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This is our next to last Arizona stop. From here we turn east to begin our trek homeward. There's more to see and enjoy over the next 2000 miles.

PS. Woke up in the morning to snow, in Arizona, on May 23 - thanks to Flagstaff's 7000 foot elevation. We crossed the Arizona Divide at 7334 feet in a light snowfall. The snowy landscape was beautiful with snow clinging to the pine trees.Leggi altro
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Holbrook,AZ- Holbrook Petrified Frst KOA
23 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 10 °C
We have traveled east only 80 miles from Flagstaff, AZ, but weather has improved dramatically. No snow, with temperature in the 70's. Our elevation has dropped 2000 feet and we're back to typical arid Arizona climate. What a difference!

Holbrook, AZ began as a town of railroaders, cattlemen, outlaws, and rugged lawmen. It was a true Wild West cow town with range wars. It was known as the "Town Too Tough For Women And Churches". In 1914 Holbrook was the only county seat the the US without a church.

The Holbrook of today is steeped in Native American culture, Hispanic roots, and pioneer spirit. There is at least one reminder of the wild days. There is a town street named "Bucket Of Blood Street". Sometimes it's hard to escape your past.

On a gentler note, Holbrook is now known as the gateway to the Petrified Forest National Park, which includes the Painted Desert. This area of Arizona was a lush rainforest in prehistoric times. Millions of years ago the region experienced climate change and the land became buried in layers of sediment. Since then wind and water eroded and sculpted the layers to expose petrified wood, and plant and animal fossils. Today the Petrified Forest National Park, with its Painted Desert is a geologist and paleontologist dream.

While other National Parks may get more attention, the Petrified Forest National Park should also be a must see National Park. The Painted Desert portion of the Park provides a landscape filled with rolling hills and mountains striated with vibrant colors. Add to this pieces of petrified trees of all sizes and shapes strewn about and you get a landscape not to be missed.Leggi altro
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Gallup, New Mexico - USA RV Park
28 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C
We're gathering travel momentum heading homeward. Gallup, NM, "The Heart Of Indian Country", is a halfway stop between Flagstaff, AZ and Albuquerque, NM. While we've been here before, this stop has a specific purpose. The trip's Navigation Goddess needs some retail therapy in the form of a authentic Native American jewelry purchase. The Zuni Pueblo borders Gallup and is a target rich shopping environment.

Gallup, NM is another town founded with the arrival of the railroad, and it's still here with a very large railyard. Trains are tooting pass the campground regularly. Famous Route 66 still passes directly through Gallup. The railroad and highway brought commerce and travelers leading to 20th century prosperity. Mid century brought Hollywood and the filming of many western movies. Unfortunately, the Hollywood notoriety faded and was replaced by a rise in crime . In 2014 Gallup had the highest violent crime rate in the state of New Mexico. ThIs problem has been compounded with the county being the poorest in the state.

The town borders the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribal nations. As a result a substantial portion of Gallup's population is Native Amierican. Unfortunately, Native American poverty, violence, alcoholism, homelessness, and unnatural deaths have added to area's problems. The extent of these problems is not readily apparent to the the casual visitor. On the plus side, Gallup appears to be a growing town showing signs of meeting its challenges.

As for our retail therapy adventure, seeking Native American jewelry, we were not successful. The availability of items depends on what the artists make, so finding what you want is hit and miss. However, all was not lost. We had a great lunch at the Village Bistro. Despite its somewhat modern name, the restauriant is Native American owned by a Zuni tribe member and features traditional Zuni dishes. The Green Chile Stew was excellent, and yes it was very spicy.Leggi altro
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Albuquerque, NM - Albuquerque KOA
30 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C
Today we crossed the Continental Divide at 7,500 feet which means our trip is all downhill from here. We have stopped in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This stop is just that, only a stop for the night. We have already spent considerable tourist time here during previous trips. Albuquerque is worth a look!

As cities go, Albuquerque is one of the more inviting ones we have visited. It has much history and culture to absorb. It's big, 190 square miles, with a metropolitan population of 916,000. It is an old town, founded in 1706 by the Spanish. The "Old Town" still thrives today with businesses, restaurants, and a church surrounding a central plaza. The "New Town" was founded when the railroad came to town, but not to the Old Town. Since then the city has been steadily growing and at times by leaps and bounds. Today the urban sprawl continues as the city expands westward and culturally it remains the crossroad of New Mexico.Leggi altro
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Tucumcari, New Mexico - Tucumcari KOA
31 maggio 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C
Where and what is Tucumcari? It's a town of 5,000 people approximately halfway between Albuquerque, NM and Amarillo, TX; and in the Northeast corner of New Mexico, not far from the Texas panhandle. It is located on Interstate 40 which follows old, now Historic Route 66. Old Route 66 runs through the center of town. This location pretty much keeps the town alive. The usual chain restaurants and hotels have clustered around an interstate exit, which provide all the town fun. However, Tucumcari does provide a quiet restful campsite for the night.

How did Tucumcari get to this point? As with many western towns the railroad gets the founding credit. First, in 1901 there was a railroad construction camp, Ragtown. So much good times were had in Ragtown that it became known as Six Shooter Siding. Tucumcari, named after a nearby mountain, came along in 1905 and grew to become a junction for transcontinental train service. Route 66 added more westward travelers up until the interstate highway was built in the 1950's. Then traffic sped by with no need to stop in a small town. The population boom stopped abruptly in the 50's with the demise of both the railroad and automobile traffic. The exodus continues to this day.Leggi altro
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Amarillo, Texas - Amarillo KOA
1 giugno 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C
What day is it and where are we? Not a complaint, only a trip benefit.

Beautiful and interesting scenery goes by and another restful stop to enjoy! On our way to Amarillo we passed through rolling plains for as far as one could see. Farms with newly plowed fields and ranches with wandering cattle. We are definitely in cowboy country. We're in the Texas panhandle. If you stop and look closely you can feel the lure of the old West and imagine life back in the pioneer days.

A new crop has sprouted up on the northern Texas plains. A large white spinning crop has emerged. As far as the eye can see, there is mile after mile of thousands (no exaggeration) of windmills. The wind over the plains is being put to good use.

Amarillo is situated in the grasslands of northern Texas surrounded by dense prairie and large ranches. It retains the culture of a hard nosed cattle town. One quarter of US beef is processed here. Meat packing is a major employer. Today's cityscape is filled with cactus, cowboys, steak, and oil. Urbanization has taken hold and caused downtown economic deterioration that is seen in many cities.

Downtown aside, there's much interesting scenery to enjoy. So, saddle up buckeroo!Leggi altro
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Foss, Oklahoma - Elk City/Clinton KOA
3 giugno 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Have arrived in Oklahoma. This is our first time camping in the Sooner State. Only a couple more states to go and we will have done all the lower 48 states.

This stop in Foss, OK (100 miles west of Oklahoma City) is just an overnight stop. And a stop is all it can be. We are between here and there. As the campground name suggests, we're between Elk City, OK and Clinton, OK, two good size towns. However, more accurately, we're really between Canute, OK and Foss. OK. Two towns of not good size. You wouldn't even have to blink to miss Canute or Foss. Someone forgot to tell the last person leaving to turn off the lights.

Canute is a small, small town of 500 residents. On the other hand, Foss is a very,very, small town of 150. Here's another size perspective. The Canute high school averages 30 per grade.

Back in the day industry consisted of a broom factory, and a wagon and buggy carriage works. The towns were up and coming. But then companies closed and the towns slowly withered away.

The land on which Canute and Foss now sit was once given to the Cheyenne and Arapahoe Indians after they were forced off their native lands. The land gift didn't last. The US took it back so that Oklahoma could be settled by westward moving pioneers. Once the pioneers moved in, the railroad showed up; then Route 66 came through making the towns popular stopping places; and then Interstate 40 bypassed the towns and they were no longer popular stops; and finally the death blow came when the local Air Force Base closed. Once again the towns slowly shriveled up. Unfortunately, this scenario of small town decline has played out all over the country. The folks must either leave for greener pastures or hold on to the homestead in hopes of turning things around. A few hundred people opted to stay in Canute and Foss, OK. This land had seen one life changing episode after another. Today these 2 small towns could use a break and some luck.

Despite the troubles of Canute and Foss, the KOA campground is very nice. It has a small restaurant which other KOA's have. But this one also has a bar. This is a first!Leggi altro
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Choctaw, Oklahoma - Oklahoma City E KOA
4 giugno 2019, Stati Uniti ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C
As the KOA campground name indicates, we are near Oklahoma City. We're just east of the City, in Choctaw, OK. No trip through Oklahoma would complete without seeing Tornado Alley Central, OKC.

Our drive took us right by the city and since we've outgrown our big city awe, we gave Oklahoma City only a cursory look. However, what we have seen and learned about OKC suggests the city is unique and has much to offer. Unforturnately, many people know OKC only for the tragic domestic terrorism act of the Federal Building bombing.

OKC lies on the Great Plains surrounded by agriculture of all types especially cattle ranches. This source of cattle has made OKC one of the largest livestock markets in the world. There are 1.5 million people living in metropolitan OKC. Approximately half are living in the city itself. These city dwellers have the benefit of living in what appears to be a progressive environment and one that is citizen oriented. OKC is a city of business districts and neighborhoods. Many are affluent historic neighborhoods that adjoin up and coming districts. OKC has all the usual city amenities, theatre, museums, restaurants, parks, and sports, including the recent arrival of their own NBA team. The outlets for OKC citizens are many and varied.

Oklahoma City appears to be a big city looking out for the people which makes it worth a look by anyone seeking a good place to live, work, and play. For anyone coming, there are 3 interstates that intersect here so it won't be hard to find or to get here.Leggi altro
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