On Saturday we took a ride with Bob & Ruger, his friends, Tee and Betsy and a pickleball playing friend, Carole. We headed out in the UTVs to travel to Box Canyon. So much has changed in the trails behind North Ranch -- between the Monsoons and all the extra rain we've received in November and December, the trails are really rugged and have changed in topography. We had some pretty rocky climbs and a lot of water in the Hassayampa river.
We had overcast skies and some chilly temps when we started out at 9AM but sometimes that is more enjoyable than the heat beating down on you??
Although it doesn't took too rugged, this is the first rocky climb Bob took us up -- yikes, it has to get better, right?
OK, here's the black cattle at the bottom of the trail, see what I mean???? Look right in the center and to the right, those are cattle!!!
Always keep the landmarks to orient yourself, the mountains are a good one to see long distance.
This Saguaro is starting its little barrels so probably a youngster in the age of Saguaros
We arrived at the 1st stop before entering the canyon
The parking area before heading on down into the canyon.
The trees mark the area to head into the "Box Canyon" -- lots of water in the river.
You just never know where the cactus will grow!
Check this one out -- they look like soldiers guarding the ridge.
We found some cliff caves, not sure what resides there, but I don't want to find out!
Betsy (leaning on the white UTV), Tee in the middle of the pic, and Darrel in the red stocking cap.
Water, water, everywhere!
Darrel walks, looking for a place to cross the water.
Canyon ridge to the East
Canyon entrance
Bob and Ruger headed into the "Box Canyon" alcove
More water flowing
Trail to the left or crossing the water stream
We had a wonderful trip enjoying the quiet weather. On our way back to North Ranch, we encountered a lady with 2 dogs walking one of the trails -- she seemed a little far away from the gate so we gave her and the 2 dogs a ride back -- what would have taken her about 45 mins. took us about 15 mins. We were happy to help.
Sunday we woke up to lots of dense fog and could barely see the mountains. Arizona has had such weird weather this winter, I truly believe we are the "bad weather" gypsies!!!
We have a fairly quiet week but it seems lots of things pop up to do, so we try to stay flexible. We have to schedule a truck fix date (4 recalls to correct) since the one we had scheduled didn't have all the parts and a couple of doctor appointments.
We wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and send our blessings always,
Love,
Susan & Darrel
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