POST #64

We arrived here at Picacho Peak State Park, AZ on Friday, March 27.  We are only here for a short time, leaving the morning of March 30.

The unique shape of the 1,500-foot Picacho Peak has been used as a landmark by travelers since prehistoric times. One of the first recordings was in the 1700’s by the Anza Expedition as it passed through the area.

Picacho Peak is not a volcanic cone, but is part of a volcanic flow that has been partially eroded away.

In 1848, the Mormon Battalion constructed a wagon road through Picacho Pass. The forty-niners on their way to California used this road. In the late 1850’s the Butterfield Overland Stage was carrying passengers through this area. Picacho Peak’s most noted historic event occurred on April 15, 1862, when Confederate and Union scouting parties met in the Battle of Picacho Pass during the Civil War. This was the largest Civil War clash to take place in Arizona.

Picacho Peak has long been known for its spring display of wildflowers. If rains come at the right times in the winter, the spring will bring an explosion of gold to the bajadas of the mountain that appear as a tapestry of color.

The wildflowers are predominantly Mexican Gold Poppies and purple Lupines. 

Picacho Peak State Park Campground is a beautiful place! Click HERE for a 360 degree tour of the campground!  This is our spot, #20 in the "C" Loop...

We hiked around all of the Loops...

The only problem with this campground is there is NO water available.  We had to arrive with a full water tank, and would have to drive 8 miles to the Flying J to get more.  This wasn't a real problem because we are only here 3 nights.

Tomorrow will be a bit of a sad day...we will be leaving the Desert and heading North about 180 miles to pine trees and an elevation of 6300 feet to Fool Hollow Lake State Park...

So this evening we walked among the Saguaros at sunset...

As we bid them "goodbye" until next winter...

They are calling for temps in the 90s here next week!  Due to the stupid virus the restrictions that they were hoping to lift on Monday have been extended until April 30th.  If for some reason travel is restricted we don't want to be here in the Desert as the temps rise into the 100s.  It will be 20 degrees cooler where we will be, near Show Low, AZ, for the next two weeks.

Stay Safe!  Stay Positive!  We WILL get through this!

Until Next Time!!