Today we took the farthest NM away, Organ Pipe Cactus NM, which is in the southwestern corner of Arizona. The NM protects the only stands of Organ Pipe Cactus in the US. The park is at the very northern edge of the cactuses range. There are also a large number of Saguaro Cactus in the park. After exploring the exhibits in the visitor center, we watched the park film and collected our 65th Passport Stamp. After talking to the Ranger, due to our limited time, we decided to take the Ajo Mountain Loop Scenic drive. Leslie drove us around this rustic gravel and dirt road. The terrain was beautiful with the double arch being the highlight. The desert in this area is lush due to the winter and summer rain season rains. There were plenty of Organ Pipe and Saguaro cactus, along with yucca, prickle pear, multiple types of cholla and of course creosote. The weather was moving in so we decided to head back to the Wanderer rather than risk getting caught in the expected flash flooding. We beat the rain to Tucson and took the opportunity to go to the grocery store to pick up some Items for tomorrows feast.
Critter sighting: We saw a wild burro on the drive to the park and a coyote on the way back.  |
| Entrance Sign |
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| Organ Pipe Cactus |
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| David by a Saguaro Cactus |
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| The Behemoth in the back country |
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| Double Arch in Arch Canyon |
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