We put in seven miles on foot today, most of it on the Mountain Bike trail, which circumnavigates the entirety of Lost Dutchman campground and day use area. It was quite pleasant except for what's become a regular sight for us: bags of discarded dog poo. I'd much rather these dog owners go the full distance of irresponsibility. If they'd just let their dogs do their business in nature, at least the night critters would rid the desert of it. As it is, it's very disconcerting to see brightly colored plastic bags litter the desert floor, being their half life is somewhere near a billion years. There, I've vented. In the afternoon we took a scenic drive to Tortilla Flats, population 6. The winding road through the mountains provided exquisite views of jagged peaks, forests of saguaros, and all types and colors of rocks. Just past Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flats is a four building town that includes a US Post Office. The bar had live music, and the place was packed with people that looked a lot like us. There was even a bicyclist on his Trek who braved the narrow, steep, and winding road. We toured the adjacent Tortilla Flats Campground, which is part of the Tonto National Park system. In all, it was an enjoyable experience. Canyon Lake Reservoir, created by the Mormon Flat Dam that was complete in 1925 appears to be a haven for boaters in the area. At 1660' of surface area and an average depth of 130', the lake provides enough space for many to revel in. Most amazing, though, was the terrain we drove through to get there. Those who think Arizona is just desert should come here to have their perspective changed. They would discover that life is good, especially today.
Once again, the evening light in the desert inspires a kind of gentle peace.
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