November 19. 2009 by Merilee.

November 19,2009

Apache Junction, Arizona

We followed the famous Apache Trail from Apache Junction to Roosevelt today.  This pic is of the amazing saguaro cactus that grow so big and tall in the Sanoran Desert.  A rich vein of history runs through this stunningly beautiful region.  The Apache Trail once served as a stage coach and freight wagon route from Mesa to Globe.  Indians, cowboys and miners have all roamed the mysterious Superstition Mountains.  The mountains were so distinct and unique with the tall cacti that it was had to adjust to the jaw dropping views.

Dick, one of the kiosks along the trail addressed the snake population.  Of the 12 species of venous snakes found in this area, do you know which is the most dangerous?  It is the one that bites you!  Yes, as I ran happily off into the desert to photograph cactus,  Brad kept reminding me to watch out for snakes.

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November 9. 2009 by Merilee.

Sedona, Arizona

November 9, 2009

Took advantage of a gorgeous sunny afternoon to drive the “difficult” jeep trail called Broken Arrow.  Brad had a smile on his face the whole way.  It is a very technical trail with many challenges.  The trail has a section called the “Steps.”  I did not attempt to walk down to take pics because it so steep and slippery with loose sand.  I did go down one section of Submarine Rock to take the third pic.  The second pic is us enjoying Submarine Rock.  The first pic is of a boy and his jeep at Chicken Point.

There is a large rock at the beginning of the trail that has a sign warning that if you can’t get over this rock do not attempt the trail.  Smart!

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November 9. 2009 by Merilee.

November 9, 2009

Clarkdale, Arizona

Arizona has a most amazing train ride into the Verde Canyon following the Verde River to Perkinsville.  The 40 mile round trip was crowned with gorgeous autumn golds on the cottonwoods and apache plume.  This is a ride  into the other “Grand Canyon.”  The journey featured native flora and fauna, rugged high-desert rock faces and spectacular vistas.  The train running at 16mph passed towering crimson pinnacles, ancient Indian ruins, over fortified trestles, past a monocline fault and though a man made 680-foot tunnel (yes it was black as night).

This pic was taken from the outdoor viewing car at the end of the train.  I spent most of my time outside clicking 800 pics in 4 hours.  It is a good thing that we both love trains.  A very good time was had by all on this lovely autumn day…….

Postscript:  I took many pics on this ride and two of them will be published in the Railroading magazine.  I won 2 first class tickets on the Verde Canyon Railroad.

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