Today we are in the tall pines of the high country. The drive from I40 was just beautiful. The sage brush and tumbleweed changed almost immediately to tree lined canyon walls.
The altitudes on this drive quickly climb and vary from 5000 to 7000 feet. Soon snow appears along the road's edge and the outside car temp drops to 29 degrees. I learn that this is called "RIM COUNTRY" referring to the Mogollon Canyon which runs between the Coconino and Tonto National Forrests. Unlike the Grand Canyon to the north, these canyon walls are covered and surrounded by the largest stand of Ponderosa pines in the world, or so the locals claim, making the views spectacular.
First stop is Tonoto Natural Bridge State Park. Tucked into a tiny valley, this geological marvel has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
This type of stone is crated when the minerals in spring water tumbles over and percolates through the limestone.
The hiking trails bring you down the canyon to the creek below allowing for some fun along the canyon walls.
The canyon walls are full of caves and caverns. Surprised to see areas populated with prickly pear cactus mixed in with all the trees.
Once at the bottom, the enormity of the bridge is more apparent.
But there is always the walk back up. Yikes, good thing for resting benches...
Thinking we were in good shape. Maybe we need to read the signs better. :-)
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