After our fun, snowy, Wisconsin Christmas, we decided to take a family vacation to Southern Arizona and get some warmth back into our bones. On New Years Day, we left in the morning for visits to Tombstone and Bisbee.
The Tombstone highlight for Brandon was the stagecoach ride around the traditional Old West town. He even was able to pet the horses once we disembarked. Noah's favorite was waving to everybody who walked by and saying "Hiiiii". We skipped some of the more traditional Tombstone events like the staged gunfight to protect the little one's ears. We then trucked onto Bisbee.
I did not realize how beautiful the town of Bisbee would be. Nestled in among the hills, the staircases leading to secret streets were reminiscent of Europe. The population of Bisbee was extremely varied, ranging from those producing exquisite Western artwork, counter cultural artists, homeless ex-mine workers, and a few middle class families. Unfortunately, many of the shops were closed as it was a holiday, as was the museum, so we will be sure to return sometime in the future.
The following day, we visited Kartchner Caverns. In the 70's, some explorers discovered a sinkhole which led them to a gigantic underground cave. From above, it is quite unassuming as it rests beneath the desert hills. Inside are wonderful examples of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as cave bacon...yummmy. Surprisingly, the boys were quite accommodating on the 90 minute underground tour.
We ended our quick trip with a short hike underneath the shadow of Picachu Peak. A 1/2 mile nature trail enabled us to stretch our legs on the trip home and learn a little more about our desert environs. Brandon loved the trail and asked questions all along the way. Noah, our little explorer, wanted to walk the entire way, so it was slow going, but a relaxing and beautiful way to end our small family vacation.
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