Southern Tier : Arizona from Gilbert to Duncan. Almost to NM.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

William Boyce Thompson was a mining engineer in  this area.  He created this beautiful spot in 1924. What a wonderful thing to do. This is the oldest and largest botanical garden in AZ.    This area is called the Sonorian Desert.  The gardens attract some unusual animals.  Be aware. 

Coming into Superior.

A couple of things I noticed and they are connected.  Cell service when you are on the road away from cities may be spotty.  Plan your motel destination before you leave the town.  You can always get the room when you arrive, if the season is not too busy.

Queen Creek Tunnel.

This tunnel opened up in 1952 and has three lanes. It is 1217' long and the grade is 6%.  At that pitch I am walking.  Be sure to travel with bike lights.  We continued up to Top of the World.

We are at 4528". 26 miles on this day is enough for me.

Globe, like many towns took off as precious metals were found.  In 1875 silver was discovered and then copper.  Globe still has one of the few copper smelters.  Old Dominion mining operation below.

This section is mainly flat.

Mineral peridot.

Part of the fun of bike touring is learning new things.  We go through the town of Peridot and learn that it is named after a mineral found in basalt.  I remember that basalt is from volcanic activity.

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness Area.

This area in managed by the Federal Government, BLM.  A permit is required and only 50 people a day are given access.  This is why planning ahead is a good practice.

Area near Fort Thomas

The mountains in the distance at Safford.

A gradual incline the down hill into Duncan

A nice Bed & Breakfast. They have hosted many cyclists.