Yesterday we explored the cute old mining town of Jerome, nestled in the mountains above Williams, Arizona. Today we went to Sycamore Falls and Sycamore Point. Both very easy, beautiful rides with very different charm.
We left Williams via 4th street, heading south out of town. When we got to the dirt, we stopped to re-group before we continued on.
We rode through some very nice forest land.
And some silt beds.
When we got to Sycamore falls, we took a short, easy hike to get down to the canyon.
The falls were dry today, since there hasn't been any rain lately, but still a very beautiful canyon.
We followed the loop around to where the two canyons met, then walked up the other side to return to our cars.
I thought this area of the forest looked like we were on an African safari, but where are the giraffes?
They are doing a lot of controlled burns in the area right now. You can see them from every ridge top.
After leaving Sycamore falls, our next stop was Sycamore Point, a beautiful overlook.
We had a little lunch as we took in the fresh air and canyon vistas.
Then off we went again, down the dusty trails south of Williams.
Our next quick stop was JD Lake.
As we made our way back, we realized that we were driving right through a controlled burn area. It was a little eerie, but interesting to see. It seemed like they were just burning out old tree stumps in this area.
Our final stop for the day was a climb to the top of the microwave tower hill called Bill Williams mountain.
The road up was steep and windy, but the views were amazing. Only five of us went up the mountain, the rest headed back to camp. It's probably a good thing, because parking is quite limited at the top.
Our time in Williams was great, with fun people, fun golf and fun rides! We were supposed to pack up and leave tomorrow morning, but we decided we just weren't ready yet, so we booked one more night at the RV park and settled in for an extra day.
We were so glad we did! Just a few more fun times with fun friends before we left.
Ann, stop pinching my fanny!
Now back to reality once again!
The first ride of the season is always such an exciting time. Since we are gone a lot over the summer, we don't get to see a lot of our side by side friends, and of course, it's too hot to ride, so this is our chance to get reacquainted with everyone and our car too.
This morning we broke into groups for a ride into the little mining town of Jerome, Arizona. It is in the mountains south east of Williams. Our first stop was a beautiful little spot by the river.
Wow, look what we found! Anyone for a swim?
Or maybe just a quick swing out over the water...
We drove through some beautiful and dusty country.
There isn't a lot of parking in Jerome since it is built on the side of a mountain, but we didn't have any trouble finding spots.
There are a lot of quaint little shops and restaurants.
Down in the cellar of this great shop is an old speak-easy. So cool!
As we continued down the street, we came across this old hotel, the first two-story building in Jerome, AZ.
The views over the cliffs of Jerome are spectacular.
The large house on the left is now for sale. It was originally a hotel, that was completely refurbished into a beautiful mansion. It's yours for only a little over 6 million.
After touring the town, we stopped at a little restaurant called "Grapes" for lunch. It was FABULOUS!
Soup of the day, chipotle carrot.
Sam and Sharyn split the chicken salad.
Steve and I split the Mediterranean.
And I discovered a great new mandarin wheat beer called Orange Blossom, brewed right near here in Scottsdale, Arizona.
After a wonderful lunch, we met back up with our group and started our trip back to camp.
Oh, so much fun! It was a great ride today. Nothing too difficult, but just a lot of fun! We did manage to bend a rim and get a flat...thanks for the help everyone, especial Don our ride leader!
When we line up for our rides, I'm sure the people in the RV park wonder what we are doing. We're a bit of a spectacle even though we don't mean to be.
We are staying at the Grand Canyon Railway RV Park. It is really nice, super clean and has really nice bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities.
The only problem is the train tracks behind it, but their aren't that many trains, and you get used to them.
Home sweet home.
Today was the perfect first ride of the season. Not too fast, not too slow, just right!!! It is so good to see everyone again! I'm excited for this adventure to continue!
