Tuscon, Saguaro National Park, & the Surface of the Sun (Part II)!
Phoenix is home to one of the larger airports in the West, so flights are generally very reasonable into the city. Getting to Tuscon is easy, you have to get on I-10. Tuscon is about two hours south of Phoenix or about four hours west of Las Cruces, New Mexico. I know what you're all thinking, I can take I-19 from the metropolis of Rio Rico to get there, but that too connects with I-10, so that pretty much makes it the only way. Getting back to Phoenix is as easy as getting on I-10 again. You can also get to Phoenix from the north by taking I-17 from Flagstaff.
Sitting in a valley between two sets of mountains, Tuscon is flat, very flat. Rising out of the valley on both sides of the city is Saguaro National Park. One of the few parks in the nation that is actually broken into disconnected segments, the park is meant to protect the cacti that gives the park its name. The giant saguaro cactus is regarded as the largest species of cacti in the world and flourishes in the climate of the region. When you arrive in Tuscon you will have to choose which one off the parks you visit first, the east or the west. I would recommend going to both as they are different than one another, but if you can only go to one I would suggest the west branch of the park. The east branch of the park is more of a driving exhibit. There are a few trails there, and the cacti are more abundant there, but there is little to do, and you won't be alone on the drive so you will need to plan on pulling over to get out of the way if you want to stop for a look. The west branch has more hiking trails available (which were really quite enjoyable as long as you hike in the morning), higher peaks, and ancient Native American petroglyphs that you can walk right up too. You can also visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a zoo containing many of the species of animals living in the region, and a wonderful botanical garden. While you are in the national park, try to find the largest saguaro you can and take a picture with it. You will not understand how large they really are until you see yourself standing next to them. Wendy and I hiked for several hours before it got too hot, but the views were amazing. Please bring plenty of water, some sunscreen, and a hat if you plan on hiking (ignore the fact that I don't listen to my own advice here). The paths are very clearly marked, but you are largely on your own, and it is your responsibility to take care of yourself when you are out there. Remember, it's the desert and a wild national park, so expect to come across some snakes and other animals. If you do, just be cool. Back away from them slowly, and give them a wide berth as you move around them.
On your way back into town from Saguaro National Park, stop in and visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac. One of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the United States, this structure was built between 1783-1797, and has been home to an active congregation ever since. Inside the church you will find wonderful art, some brought from Europe and other pieces made in the old Southwest by Native Americans. Constantly beaten down by the heat of the desert, this cathedral is almost always under constant repair, but they do their best to keep it looking nice. One fascinating aspect of the cathedral is their tribute to Kateri Tekakwitha, the first and only Native American saint of the Catholic faith. I find this fascinating that a 17th Century Mohawk Indian was so steadfast in her Christian faith that by the time of her death at the age of 24 she was praised for the life she had led. Across the parking lot from the cathedral is an art district with several shops dedicated to the art of the Native American tribes in the region, primarily the Tohono O'odham tribe. The artwork in these shops is beautiful, extremely unique, and worth a visit.
From Tuscon we returned to Phoenix. We were in Phoenix for my graduate school graduation, so we didn't have much time to see the city. I can't explain to you how hot Phoenix actually is in the summer, and we were there on what was supposedly the hottest summer in a decade. The temperatures was actually 118 degrees while we were out there. If you feel like splurging, and I recommend it, the J.W. Marriott Resort in Phoenix is amazing. Their prices are completely reasonable in the summer as most people travel there in the fall and spring. Our room rate even included unlimited golf after 3:00pm. If you go in the summer, get yourself an umbrella so you don't bake in the sun. The best part of the hotel, and I can't emphasize how important this is for you to hear, they have a LAZY RIVER! Not just a small one, but a massive lazy river that feels like you are at a water park. If you are looking for something fun to do go down to old Scottsdale. This collection of old shops is fun to wander through for a few hours. I was especially impressed with Alcuin Books, which had one of the best collections of antique books I have seen in the country.
Wendy and I have been to Arizona twice in three years, and we truly enjoy it. I hope one day we get to travel there in the cooler temperatures of any other season but the summer, but I know we have just scratched the surface of what this state has to offer, and we look forward to getting back there as soon as we can.
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