A photographic celebration of the city of Tucson, AZ
Since Tucson sits between several mountain ranges–the Catalinas to the North, the Rincons to the East, The Santa Ritas to the South and the Tucson Mountains to the West–there are many canyons to hike and explore, all within an hours drive (or so). A favorite of many residents is Madera Canyon in the Santa Rita Mountains, South of town. Here are a few wildflowers taken on a hike through Madera Canyon several years ago.
1 Yellow flowers grow at the base of a tree in Madera Canyon.
Summer in Tucson means monsoon rains. The heat creates a convective force creating thunderheads over the mountains, that then move through the city, dumping rain on its residents. These late afternoon storms often leave a canvas of clouds on which the beautiful sunsets Tucson has become famous for are painted. But the monsoon is not the only time we enjoy these amazing sites—our signature sunsets happen year round. Enjoy these sunsets.
1 Light poles at a park are silhouetted by the setting sun in Tucson, AZ.
The Independence Day Car Show has become a Saddlebrooke tradition, attracting automobile enthusiasts from all over southeastern Arizona. This year’s show featured cars from the 20s to the present day, including a 2006 Ferrari F430. Later that night they provided a fireworks show.
1 Spectators enjoy the Saddlebrooke car show on July 4, 2009, near Tucson, AZ
Fireworks are a highlight of Independence Day celebrations around the US, and Tucson, AZ is no different. We do have issues with the dry desert catching fire, which sometimes stops the city sponsored show. But smaller shows abound, like the one where these pictures were taken a few years ago. Each year the community of Saddlebrooke, just north of Tucson, hosts a small show that is visible from anywhere in the development. Residents set up chairs in their yards, turn out their lights and enjoy the show. A few years ago I brought my camera and a tripod and captured these images.
Sufficient winter rains bring a beautiful season of wildflowers in the spring, and a sufficiently wet monsoon will do the same in the summer.
1 This beautiful display of wildflowers appeared along Ajo Road near Kitt Peak National Observatory.
A favorite spot for visitors and Tucsonans alike is Sabino Canyon. It serves as a trailhead to miles of hiking into the Catalina Mountains as well as being a place to simply enjoy the beauty of the desert. In the summer, during monsoon, the clouds are fascinating to watch as the thunderheads build in a constantly changing display of beauty and power. Desert dwellers especially appreciate this as the clouds promise cooling rain and he water that is desperately needed for survival in this dry, hot climate.
1 Clouds form in a blue sky over Sabino Canyon outside of Tucson, AZ
From the Rattlesnake Bridge at the eastern end of downtown to the brightly colored buildings of La Placita Village, downtown Tucson has a lot of character. The aging barrios contrast with more modern high-rises, blending old and new.
1 A unique and controversial structure, the Rattlesnake Bridge is also known as “The Bridge to Nowhere.” The tail rattles when you walk by, and the structure greets you as you enter downtown on Broadway from the east, or bids you goodbye as you leave.