Arizona

After a restful time at RockHound, we have had a wonderfully busy couple of days in Arizona. After a 4-hour drive, we arrived on Friday afternoon and spent a few hours at Kartchner Caverns State Park. The park was only established 10 years ago and itss' development is an amazing story. Two amateur cavers found the caverns in the late 1970s and immediately decided that they wanted to preserve it as a living and developing cave. They kept their discovery secret for some time and then worked with the owners of the property to sell the land to the State of Arizona and establish the park. Although we have all been to Mammoth Caves in Kentucky several times, this cave was very different in that it is being protected from human contamination. To enter, we had to go through several airlocks and while on the tour, we had to stay on the developed path and not touch anything. After the end of the tours each day, the paths are washed own to ensure that nothing is left behind. The stalactites and stalagmites were amazing with beautiful colours. The most beautiful thing however was a 58foot column that glistened with crystals and ran from the cave floor to he ceiling. It was quite spectacular! Unfortunately, no cameras are allowed in the cave, so we cannot share our discoveries with you.


On Saturday, we went to Tombstone. It was a really interesting place and fortunately for us, we arrived just in time for their founders day celebration! There was a parade and the whole town was in costume. It felt like we had been transported back in time with hangings in the square and gunfights all over town. The boys were facinated and totally enjoyed the day. They especially liked the shooting gallery! As we all got caught up in the spirit, it seemed appropriate to add some cowboy hats and so we went to see one of the local hat shops where an older gentleman took his time to choose just the right fit for each of us.



After Tombstone, we went on a mine tour in Bisbee about 20 miles south. Even though we had done a gold mine tour in Colorado, the tour was a great adventure!
We rode a mine train 1500 feet into a coppper mine and were able to get off several times and explore the shafts. The guide was wonderful and since he has been a miner all of his life, he was able to share information about the historical aspects of mining, but also current practices. It was a great day and I am so glad we went!

Today, we are at our friend's Bob and Lola's house in Rio Rico. This afternoon we are going to walk across the border into Mexico and explore on foot. Since Lola is Mexican, she will be a great tour guide and we are looking forward to looking around.

Tammy