Off Again Into the Desert

Wednesday, Feb. 5, the hiking club was off again to hit the desert trails.  It was a bit overcast, so it was a bit cooler than we expected after having such warm sunny mornings the past week.  But once we headed out at a good pace, by 9:00 AM we were taking off jackets as we warmed up and the sun broke through now and then.  This was the Bowman Ranch, Yetman, Camaro Trail.  It was about a 4 mile hike this time.  It is always so peaceful and quiet on the trail early in the morning and we get to watch sunup slowly creep up over the horizon and the mountains. 

 

We hiked to the remains of an old stone house on the old Bowman ranch and took a nice break.  Amazing how somebody could make a living way up in the mountains so far from everything.  There was even an old man made fish pond.   Thirst is the biggest issue out in the dry desert.  Especially, since Tucson is having a severe drought which makes the air even dryer, so we do take frequent water breaks. 

We then hiked about a half mile further to a nice overlook of the surrounding area.  Almost to the end of the loop trail is an old rusted out shell of a Camaro car.  It is all crumpled surrounded by the desert brush.  How in the world it got up there is anyone’s guess.  Hence, the name Camaro Trail. The trail being an old ranch, someone probably just drove it up an old dirt road path many years ago to discard it.   Now if it was removed, they would have to change the name of the trail! We all had a good laugh as we speculated the story of the old car.  You know, it is a guy thing to look at it and start talking about what it would look like restored!!!  It was a pleasant hike. 

   

We were then able to get back to the park early for the free lunch sponsored by the RV park owners.  Lunch was pulled pork, potato salad, beans, roll, cookies and drink.  Anytime there is FREE food, they will come!  There must have been at least 5 lines waiting to be served!  It was a good crowd and there was even a live band.  Naturally, I worked up a good appetite after the hike!