Thursday, January 24, 2008

The Great Compromise







..............For years...literally years, since 1989....I have enjoyed hiking in Sabino Canyon. I have always looked askance and with disdain upon those that chose to ride the shuttle. If they knew what was good for them, they would definitely walk as God and the hard working volunteers at the canyon intended. Well, I didn't really look down on them, but I did pride myself on the fact that I had never taken the tourist way out.

Ethan's only request for his birthday this year was that we could go ride the tram at Sabino Canyon. Apparently he had always looked upon the riders with envy while he was stuck trudging up and down the hill on sore feet and rubbery legs. So, we shelled out the money and took the ride.

It was actually kind of fun. Our guide, Scotty, regaled up with stories about the canyon, the Flora and Fauna, Whiskey Row in Prescott, Senator Byrd from West Virginia and a bunch of other stuff. The kids enjoyed riding over the bridges, which are now more of a spillway than a bridge due to sedimentary buildup, and we saw some cool birds and stuff. We stopped out at the dam and played around while waiting for the next tram. Ethan amused us by falling in the water.

By the way, be sure to wait for Scotty's tram. The dialogue on the way back, with a different driver, consisted of a reminder that our tickets were not any good after this leg was over and another reminder not to forget our sunglasses. While these reminders were helpful, it was not quite the same as the ride with Scotty. I do not even know the name of the man who drove us back. But, you can see a picture of Scotty above.

Soon I will provide a post on why I enjoy Sabino Canyon so much. It goes beyond the scenery and opportunities for fun hikes and such, so check in again.

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