Back from Vegas

On our way back from Las Vegas we stopped in Congress, Arizona mainly because there is a campground there run by the Escapees organization.  If you are a member, the fees for full hook-up are $15.50 to 17.50 a night.  We really didn’t know what to expect way out there in the high desert, and were pleasantly surprised by all the local color.  We even stayed over a couple of extra days due to the bright and shining jewels we found.  To begin with it was the perfect time of year: wondrous spring bringing forth blossoms of magnificent beauty: Saguaro high on a desert mountain silhouetted against a sunset, barrel cactus adorning rocky pathways and all the heads of the prickly pear baring witness to survival in an otherwise barren landscape. The annual blooming adds a certain mystery and anticipation.  Without the unfolding of these delicate blossoms, hopeful anticipation would sorely be diminished and the desert would truly become a no-man’s landscape. 

The Escapees North Ranch is a tribute to desert living.  Well appointed tree-lined RV sites, the neatly landscaped permanent neighborhoods, and the lovingly designed cactus garden offered the perfect oasis.  Jack rabbits inhabited the area and added to our enjoyment as we watched Phoebe’s doggy ecstasy during her chase after these illusive creatures.  

We took forays into surrounding areas and found the towns of Wickenburg, Stanton, and Prescott.  Wickenburg was delightful with its walking trail around town lined with whimsical bronze life-size sculptures. The Desert Caballeros Western Museum is one of the premier locations for the best western art available.  The town is only 60 miles north of Phoenix and only 15 miles from Congress so it is definitely worth the trip.
On the opposite side of the spectrum is Stanton.  We drove about 12 miles over a washboard dirt road to see the gold prospector/campers and ghost town.  Many people go up there to actually pan for gold and some find it.  That's why Stanton came into existence in 1863-gold in them thar hills.

We then took the most awesome trip to Prescott.  We began at about 2000 feet above sea level and climbed along a very winding road carved out of the side of the mountains to a little over 6000 feet.  The road had so many hairpin turns that there were signs prohibiting big trucks.  The country at that elevation levels out to plateaus with lush vegetation and many cattle and horse ranches.  Beautiful.  Prescott is a great town with a mixture of western and wholistic living, if that makes sense. I think Prescott College has a lot to do with that since they offer Liberal Arts degrees in Environment studies and Social Justice. Their programs send students all over the US and the world to get practical experience.

We very much enjoyed Arizona and look forward to a return visit.