Wandering Sabino Canyon

Another system arrives in southern AZ, bringing significant rain (by our standards) and mountain snow (9' on Mount Lemmon).   I'm always infatuated with the mix of clouds and mountain views.

Previously I mentioned a preserve if I walk south a short distance but walking north and making a left into a wash brings me to another wooded area with a large pond.  I think that's a giant eucalyptus tree.  Landscapers have piled many fallen branches near this tree and I've begun carrying some home, cutting them with a hand saw and burning in the outdoor fireplace.  Still thinking about buying a chainsaw.

The well behaved Jack poses for me.  

I arrive at Sabino Canyon for a short hike.  I'm focused on improving my cycling fitness for the near term.  Getting blasted out the back of groups during a ride is nothing new to me but when it repeats itself too frequently and is due to my lack of fitness rather than the strength of the group, it's motivating.

I park in the overflow lot and head up with a neat view of Thimble Peak in the distance.

Sabino Creek has a strong flow of water and now with the snow melt, will flow for quite a while.

I'm on a loop and heading back to the parking lot and I pass this open mine.  I'm surprised there is not a barrier in front.  I walk to the entrance and peer into the gloom.  Yeah, probably a bad idea to go farther.

I finish my 2.25 mile hike, always accompanied by grand views.