Hiking the Scenic Nature Trail

Trip Start Dec 24, 2010
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Trip End Jun 01, 2011


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Flag of United States  , Arizona
Saturday, January 15, 2011

Got some photos of a new bird this AM.  Unfortunately, I didn't bring any of my three bird books along.  You can help me if you can recognize any of these birds.  The trail is about 4.5 miles long and includes some fairly steep switchbacks.  Eventually you'll follow the main ridge, with a few ups and downs there too.  It wasn't particularly scenic to me, mainly because of the season.  Saw only ONE flower, which turned out to look pretty good in the photo. We did see a flock of Quail, probably at least fifty, fly in front of us and "talk" to each other enroute.
 
  This park is quite close to civilization and agrarian pursuits.  You can see both, plus the campground from this long ridge.  I took us just over two hours to navigate the trail at a good pace.  It's gratifying that in spite of our upper middle-age, we are fit enough to hike as we do.  We always take snacks and some liquid refreshment.  In summer, you'd need a huge amount of water to do this.  Both sunrise and sunset have been spectacular, particularly due to the mountains that surround us.  There a frequent, light clouds which enhance any photo, in my opinion.  I've been taking pictures since I was nine years old and my mom loaned me the Brownie Hawk-eye.  Some of you middle-agers remember the camera, I'm sure.  Tomorrow, we'll return to Scottsdale to visit Talesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home.  
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