By Rachel Joel  ·  AZ Places  ·  Tonto National Forest Most people drive through Globe on their way somewhere else. What they don't realize is that just south of town, rising over 4,000 feet from the desert floor, is one of Arizona's most rewarding and least-known camping destinations — the Pinal Mountains. In May 2024 Rachel and Luca spent two nights and three days at Six Shooter Campground in the Tonto National Forest. What unfolded was one of those trips that reminds you why you do this. The drive up Getting to Six Shooter Campground is part of the experience. From the Globe Ranger Station it's about 15.9 miles via FR 651 — a narrow, winding gravel mountain road that takes roughly 56 minutes to drive. Take it slow. The road climbs through chaparral and desert scrub before transitioning dramatically into ponderosa pine and white fir as you gain elevation. Communication and radio towers near the summit are visible ahead and serve as a useful landmark. The road is maintained — in part because of those towers — but it is not a road for rushing. Snow in May We arrived to find snow still lingering in the shaded spots near the road. In May. At nearly 7,700 feet, the Pinal Mountains operate on their own schedule, and the snow patches tucked into the shadows of the pines were a welcome reminder of just how much elevation we had gained from the desert below. The campground & surroundings Six Shooter Campground has 12 units tucked into tall stands of ponderosa pine and white fir — the shade is genuine and the quiet is real. The nearby Pinal Campground has 4 units and Upper Pinal has 3 sites for those wanting even more solitude. Sulphide Del Rey and Pioneer Pass offer additional dispersed options in the area. What gives this place an extra layer of interest is its history. Both Six Shooter and the nearby Pinal Campgrounds sit on a site once occupied by the U.S. Army, which used it as a heliographic signaling station in the late 1800s — flashing messages across the desert landscape using mirrors to reflect sunlight. Standing in those pines knowing soldiers once stood in the same spot communicating by reflected sunlight across the Arizona territory adds something to the place. The hiking At least eight trails branch out within one mile of the campgrounds. We hiked to the fire lookout tower at 7,838 feet — one of the highlights of the trip. The view from up there is extraordinary, looking out in every direction across central Arizona. We also set out to find a spring, which turned out to have been tapped off. The trail system rewards those who explore it and there is genuinely more to discover here than a single trip can cover. We also found a cluster of large boulders that made a natural outdoor living room — the kind of place you settle into and don't want to leave. With the pines overhead and the quiet of the mountain around you, it was one of those moments that doesn't need any enhancement. Wildlife The Pinal Mountains are considered a sky island and the wildlife reflects that. Our biggest surprise was the coatis — a first sighting for us. We also encountered a horned toad lizard, white-tailed deer and an impressive variety of birds throughout the trip. The Pinal Mountains are well known among birdwatchers and it's easy to understand why once you're up there. Keep your eyes and ears open — this mountain delivers. Camp life Firewood was plentiful for gathering throughout the forest, the trees were perfect for hammocks, and the wildflowers were in full color for a May trip. Luca processed yucca into fibers — a hands-on primitive skills moment that felt right at home in a forest this rich. The culinary highlight was a Dutch oven goulash cooked over the campfire — featured in the main video and in a second dedicated cooking video. Camp cooking at nearly 7,700 feet in a ponderosa pine forest is a completely different experience from cooking at home, and the goulash did not disappoint. Getting there From Chandler or Phoenix take US-60 East through Superior and Miami to Globe. Follow Jess Hayes Road southeast to the junction of Icehouse Canyon Road (FR 112) and Six Shooter Canyon Road (FR 222). Continue on FR 112 for 2.5 miles to the junction of FR 55. Take the right fork, continue 2.5 miles to FR 651, turn left and follow FR 651 approximately 10 miles to the campgrounds. No fees, no reservations — first come, first served. Potable water is available at Six Shooter and Pinal Campgrounds. No trash service — pack it in, pack it out. Check fire restrictions with the Globe Ranger District at (928) 402-6200 before your trip. The Pinal Mountains are one of the locations in the AZ Places bucket list. See the full location guide → · AZ Places also offers guided camping trips in Arizona — view our hosted adventures →

By Rachel Joel  ·  AZ Places  ·  Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona If you've spent any time in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, you know how special the wild horses there are. Watching them move freely through the pines is one of those experiences that stays with you. Which makes what's happening right now in that same forest deeply troubling — and personal for us. What's happening According to a recent report by AZFamily, the U.S. Forest Service is investigating the deaths of four more horses on the Black Mesa Ranger District in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest — following nine horses that were shot at the end of January. At least thirteen horses killed in just a matter of weeks. This isn't new. Local horse advocate Betty Nixon, who spends dozens of hours each week in the forest, told AZFamily this has been happening for years. In 2022, at least 30 horses were killed in the same forest. In 2020, more than a dozen. Investigators have noted many of the killings appear to happen during full moons — possibly because the light makes it easier to see. The Forest Service is investigating but has made no arrests. "They need people to be their voice and to be their witness because the story needs to be told." — Betty Nixon, local horse advocate We were there — this is what we found We didn't learn about this from a news report. We found it ourselves. On September 9th, 2025, we had camped and filmed along Forest Road 124 and were making our way out via Rim Road 300 — a less-traveled road that doesn't see much traffic. We had already stopped to clear a downed tree blocking the road when, around the next curve, we noticed several ravens gathered near the roadside. Any time you see ravens like that, your first thought is that something has died. We slowed down. The first horse was about eight feet from the road. The second was about twelve feet off into the trees. Two horses down, close together. One near the road could be an accident — hit by a vehicle. One alone could be illness or unknown causes. But two, together, in that location? Our instinct said these animals had been killed. We got out and took a closer look. We couldn't say with absolute certainty, but everything we saw pointed to them having been shot. We marked a GPS pin at 34.28828, -110.56271, photographed the scene, and as soon as we had cell service we called the ranger's office to report it. RACHEL'S TAKE This is so wrong, and it's so sad. We had spent that entire morning watching these horses alive — filming them moving through the forest, completely free. A few hours later, we're standing over two of them dead on the side of a remote road. We talked about it a lot on the drive home. What kind of person does this? Is it just for the thrill of it? We don't have an answer to that. What we do know is that people need to be aware this is happening in Arizona's forests. These animals are part of this landscape. They belong here. And they deserve better than this. What you can do The Forest Service can't have eyes everywhere — but visitors can. If you're out in the Apache-Sitgreaves or anywhere in Arizona's national forests and you come across something suspicious, please report it. Don't assume someone else already has. Report wildlife crime anonymously to the Arizona Game & Fish Department 24-hour hotline: 1-800-352-0700 or at azgfd.com. Your call can make a difference. We plan to keep going back to the Apache-Sitgreaves — it's some of the most beautiful country in Arizona and it will be the setting for many of our future trips. We hope the next time we're out there, the story we bring back is a better one. Read the full AZFamily report: Advocates want answers after 4 more horses killed in eastern Arizona →

By Rachel Joel  ·  AZ Places  ·  Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona There are places in Arizona that don't announce themselves. Forest Road 124 in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is one of them — a quiet stretch of ponderosa pines and open meadows that rewards anyone willing to slow down and pay attention. We recently spent time out there with the camera rolling, and what unfolded was one of our most memorable — and heartbreaking — days in the field. Wild horses in their element The real draw of FR 124 is the wild horses. Seeing them here, unhurried and unbothered, moving through the forest on their own terms, is something that never gets old. These are not animals performing for anyone. They exist out here on their own schedule, and if you're patient and quiet, they'll let you watch. We kept our distance and let the camera do the work. More than just horses The area gave us plenty more to take in. A short walk off the road opened up sweeping views of the surrounding forest — the kind of vista that reminds you just how big and wild the Apache-Sitgreaves really is. We also caught a White-breasted Nuthatch working its way down a pine trunk in that distinctive head-first way they have, and the wildflowers were putting on a show along the roadside. If you're into nature photography or just enjoy being outside without a crowd, this road is worth your time. A discovery that stays with you As we drove out, we came across two horses that had been shot. We're not going to pretend that wasn't difficult to process after everything we'd just experienced. These are wild animals living on public land — they belong to all of us, and they deserve protection. We're sharing this not to be sensational, but because it matters. Wildlife crime happens, and it often goes unreported. If you're out in the forest and you come across something like this, please report it. Report wildlife crimes in Arizona: Contact the Arizona Game & Fish Department at 1-800-352-0700 (24-hour hotline) or submit a report online at azgfd.com. You can remain anonymous. These reports make a difference. Getting to Forest Road 124 FR 124 is located within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest in eastern Arizona. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended depending on recent road conditions. Check with the local ranger district before heading out, especially after wet weather. No fees or permits are required to drive forest roads, but please pack out everything you bring in and respect the wildlife and the land. Watch the full video Everything we saw that day — the horses, the nuthatch, the wildflowers, the views, and the hard ending — is in the video above. Give it a watch and let us know in the comments if you've been out to FR 124 or anywhere else in the Apache-Sitgreaves. We'd love to hear from you.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles that guide outdoor enthusiasts on how to minimize their impact on the natural environment. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing LNT is crucial to preserving our natural resources for future generations. In this blog post, we'll explore the seven principles of Leave No Trace and provide tips on how you can implement them on your next outdoor adventure. Plan Ahead and Prepare Planning ahead involves conducting thorough research on the camping location, understanding the weather conditions, and familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations of the area. It is important to prepare a detailed checklist of essential camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and proper clothing for various weather conditions. Make sure to bring enough food, water, and supplies for your trip, and have a backup plan in case of emergencies. Additionally, arranging for appropriate permits and reservations in advance will help avoid any last-minute complications. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you have all the necessary supplies, are aware of potential challenges, and can make the most of your camping experience. This principle not only enhances your safety and comfort but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Stay on established trails and designated campsites, and avoiding fragile areas such as wetlands, meadows, and tundra. Durable surfaces refer to areas that can withstand foot traffic and camping equipment without causing excessive damage. When selecting a campsite, look for established camping areas, such as designated campsites or previously used spots, as these are already compacted and less likely to suffer from erosion. Avoid setting up camp on fragile vegetation, sensitive habitats, or near water bodies, as they are easily susceptible to damage. By staying on durable surfaces, we preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings and contribute to the long-term health of the wilderness we love to explore. Dispose of Waste Properly Pack out all trash and leaving no litter behind. Proper waste disposal not only helps maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the campsite but also protects the local wildlife and ecosystems. To implement this principle effectively, campers should bring along sturdy trash bags or bins and designate specific areas for waste disposal. All waste, including food scraps, packaging materials, and personal items, should be properly sealed and securely stored to prevent attracting animals or causing litter. It is recommended to separate recyclable materials from your trash so they can be processed accordingly. Additionally, campers must refrain from burying or burning waste, as these methods can harm the environment and pose safety risks. It is important to locate a designated restroom facility. If such facilities are not available, designate an area for waste disposal. Using a trowel or shovel dig a small hole " cathole" at least six to eight inches deep, 200 feet away from water sources and campsites. After use, cover the waste with soil and make sure to pack out any toilet paper or hygiene products used. Leave What You Find Do not disturb natural objects like rocks, plants, or wildlife. To preserve the beauty and integrity of nature, we must resist the temptation to take home souvenirs or disturb the delicate balance of the environment. By leaving natural objects, such as rocks, flowers, or artifacts, untouched, we allow others to enjoy the same unspoiled experience. Take only photos and leave only footprints. Minimize Campfire Impact Minimize Campfire Impact To minimize campfire impact, it is essential to choose established fire rings or designated fire pits whenever possible. These designated areas are designed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, reducing the risk of wildfires. Additionally, using small, manageable fires and burning only dry and fallen wood helps to limit the amount of fuel consumed and the production of smoke. Properly extinguishing the fire before leaving the campsite is another crucial step, as it ensures no embers are left burning and reduces the risk of accidental wildfires. By minimizing campfire impact, we can enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a campfire while respecting the environment and leaving no trace behind. Respect Wildlife Respect Wildlife I t is crucial to avoid feeding or approaching wild animals. While it may be tempting to offer food or get closer for a better view or photograph, this can disrupt their natural behavior and create dependency, which can lead to negative consequences for both the animals and humans. Secondly, campers should store food securely and dispose of waste properly to prevent attracting wildlife to the campsite. This helps to maintain their natural foraging patterns and reduces the risk of conflicts or habituation. Additionally, respecting wildlife also means observing animals from a distance and refraining from making excessive noise or sudden movements that may startle or distress them. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Be respectful of other campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Adhere to quiet hours and minimize noise pollution, especially during the evening and early morning. Consider the privacy of others by maintaining a reasonable distance between campsites and refraining from intruding on neighboring areas is equally important. Adhering to campground rules, sharing communal spaces, and being mindful of the impact your actions have on the environment all demonstrate consideration for fellow campers. By following these seven principles, you can help protect the natural environment and preserve our wild places for future generations. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing Leave No Trace is crucial to ensuring that our outdoor spaces remain beautiful, healthy, and accessible to everyone.

Understand the Setup A composting toilet with urine diversion is cleaner and more sustainable than a traditional pit toilet. It helps reduce odors, separates liquids for easier management, and allows waste to be buried safely without contaminating groundwater. Our compost toilet has two separate areas: Front:  Urine diverter – directs liquid waste into a separate container. Rear:  Solids container – for feces and heavily soiled toilet paper, combined with dry cover material like sawdust or coconut coir. Position yourself properly when using the toilet Always sit  (don’t squat or stand) to ensure liquids go into the urine diverter. Make sure feces go into the rear solids container. After You Go Place lightly soiled toilet paper  in the trash can. Heavily soiled toilet paper  goes in the solids container. Sprinkle a scoop of dry cover material  (e.g., sawdust, coconut coir, or other organic materials) over the solids to reduce odor and absorb moisture. Rinse the urine diverter  by pouring a small amount of water into the front section. This helps dilute the urine for later disposal and keeps the diverter clean for the next user. Wipe down the seat with the available cleaning wipes if needed, and place used wipes in the trash bin. Close the toilet lid when finished. Close the bathroom door  when exiting to help keep bugs out. What NOT to Do ❌ Do not throw wet wipes, sanitary products, or trash in the solids container, use the trash can provided. Content is later buried and these items are not allowed. ❌ Avoid urinating in the solids section. Doing so can make the content stink more than it does. ❌ Do not overload the urine bottle with liquids. Cleaning & Maintenance Check and empty the urine container daily  or as needed to prevent overflow and odor. Wipe down the urine diverter and toilet seat with cleaning wipes. Keep the solids container dry  – moisture causes odor. Empty the solids container  when it’s about ¾ full, using the disposal guidelines below. Disposal Guidelines Solid Waste: How to Dispose Choose a discreet location at least 200 feet  (about 70 steps ) from water, trails, and campsites . Dig a hole  about 8–10 inches deep  and 10–12 inches wide . Wear disposable gloves  if desired and bring a small trash bag. Carefully empty the solid waste  (minus the liner, if using one) into the hole. Cover completely  with dirt and disguise the spot using natural materials like leaves or rocks. On private land, you may use a compost bin  if it complies with local regulations. Never dump waste  on the surface or into water sources. Urine: How to Dispose Urine is generally sterile but should be handled with care to avoid odor or contamination. If water is available, dilute urine  with water ( 1 part urine to 8 parts water ) and pour around non-edible plants , at least 200 feet  from water sources, trails, or campsites. If water is scarce, pour urine directly onto well-drained soil  at the base of trees or large shrubs. Rotate disposal spots  to avoid odor buildup. Always stay at least 200 feet  from any stream, lake, river, or campsite. After Disposal If using a liner, tie it off  and place it in the main trash . Replace the liner  (if applicable). Rinse containers  if needed and return them to the toilet setup. Wash your hands  with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Thank you for doing your part to protect nature and keep the site clean! 🌿 Questions? Ask your AZ Places host.

Looking to conquer the rugged trails of Arizona—whether it’s the Sonoran Desert’s wide-open vistas or the pine-scented slopes of the White Mountains—with less bulk on your back? In “15 Tips to Reduce Backpacking Gear Weight,” author Philip Werner lays out a streamlined strategy for ultra-light, efficient packing. His guidance boils down to smart, safety-conscious cutbacks—perfect for desert hikers, canyon trekkers, and anyone chasing wide-open skies. At the heart of Werner’s approach is the Big Four : your shelter, backpack, sleep system, and pad. Swapping a heavy sleeping bag for a quilt, exchanging a tent for a tarp, or trading an inflatable pad for foam can yield the biggest savings fast. He urges hikers to pack only seasonally appropriate clothing—select lightweight, quick-drying fabrics and rinse items as needed—instead of packing for “just-in-case” scenarios. Multitaskers rejoice: a cook pot can double as a bowl, a buff transforms into a hat or grip, and trekking poles can pull double duty as tent supports. Werner also tackles the small wins that add up: decant toiletries into travel-sized containers, bring bar soap in place of heavier lotions, and nix unnecessary beauty items—after all, the trail isn’t for glamour, it’s for grit. Taken together, these thoughtful tips help you stay safe and comfortable while reducing pack weight—a huge plus for long hikes across Arizona’s hot lowlands and cool high-country alike. Bonus Insight: Ultralight Backpacking for Arizona’s Terrain Beyond Werner’s list, ultralight backpacking as a whole is about keeping your base weight —all gear minus food, water, and fuel—extremely low, often under 10 lbs for purists. This approach uses multipurpose gear, lighter fabrics, and efficient resupply strategies to cut ounces everywhere possible. For Arizona adventurers, water planning is critical; carrying too much can weigh you down, but relying on unreliable sources is risky. Knowing your route’s refill points, packing a lightweight filtration system, and adjusting your load for seasonal temperatures can make the difference between an exhausting trek and a liberating one. Whether you’re gearing up for a rim-to-rim Grand Canyon hike, a desert loop in the Superstitions, or a multi-day wander through the Mogollon Rim, trimming pack weight means more miles, less fatigue, and a better connection to the landscape around you. See the Full Article: " 15 Tips to Reduce Backpacking Gear Weight " By Philip Werner, SectionHiker , August 12, 2025.

Nestled along the Wasatch Front in Utah, the simple act of hiking has become a powerful antidote to the relentless buzz of modern life. For Springville resident Kayla Meehan , the pandemic lockdown wasn't just a pause—it became a turning point. Venturing into the nearby Wasatch Mountains, she discovered that unplugging from notifications allowed her to reconnect with herself, sparking a passion for the outdoors she never saw coming. This renewed connection isn’t just personal—it’s community-driven. Timpanogos Hiking Co. , a Provo-based outfitter, has revived the historic tradition of collecting Timp Badges  for summiting Mount Timpanogos, and expanded it with accessible challenges like the GOAT Challenge  and Escape the Noise Challenge  for family-friendly hikes across the Wasatch. These initiatives have helped cultivate a welcoming, purpose-driven hiking culture that motivates people—both seasoned and new—to step outside. One hiker, Tennison Hunter , credits these badge challenges as a catalyst during a personal dark period. Starting with the Provo “Y,” he then used the badge system as “fuel,” ultimately summiting Mount Timpanogos four times in one year , and inspiring his kids to embrace the challenge too. Whether it’s a quick walk or a multi-hour summit, Kayla and Tennison both stress how even brief time outdoors can clear the mind and offer a profound sense of presence. Utah’s diverse landscapes—from alpine peaks in the Uintas to the southern red-rock country—offer something for every skill level. Hiking here isn’t just recreation—it’s a pathway to mental wellness bundled with scenic discovery, accessible, local, and life-changing. See the Full Article: “ Reconnecting with nature: How Utah hikers are finding mental wellness in the mountains ” By Cassidy Wixom, KSL.com , April 13, 2025.

Camping offers a refreshing escape from urban life—but pulling off a truly enjoyable and safe trip requires more than just a sleeping bag and tent. Experts at Condé Nast Traveler lay out the essential guidelines every camper should follow. First and foremost: leave no trace . Whether you're disposing of trash or caring for nature’s delicate balance, the goal is to leave your campsite cleaner than you found it and minimize your environmental impact. Respect for wildlife is another cornerstone of responsible camping. Observing animals from a distance and avoiding feeding them helps maintain both safety and ecological integrity. Using bear‑resistant containers and storing scented items securely reduces dangerous wildlife encounters. When it comes to fire, being fire smart  is non-negotiable: only use designated fire rings, follow local fire bans, and ensure every ember is fully extinguished before you leave. Thorough preparation makes a weekend trip feel seamless. Testing your gear before departure —from setting up the tent to breaking in hiking boots—ensures you avoid campsite surprises. The same goes for your lighting: bring headlamps, lanterns, and flashlights (plus spare batteries), as night in the wilderness can be darker than expected. Campers should pack with intention , balancing minimalism and purpose. Know what each item is for, match your gear to the activity, and choose lightweight, easy-dry clothing layers. Hygiene is often overlooked in nature, but essentials like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, dry shampoo, and toilet paper are critical when water resources are limited. Clear communication  with companions and loved ones is key, especially when camping off-grid. Tools like satellite messengers or two-way radios can offer peace of mind in emergencies. Let others know your planned route and expected return time. Comfortable rest matters too—investing in a quality camping pillow and seating can make downtime at camp feel indulgent rather than austere. Finally, stick to well-known, established camp locations , especially if you’re new to camping. This not only reduces risk but also ensures access to help or facilities during unexpected situations. Familiarize yourself with the lay of the land before dark, and be aware of nearby resources like lodging, hospitals, or restaurants. See the Full Article: " The Golden Rules of Camping " by Kendall Cornish on Condé Nast Traveler , March 11, 2025.

Wild camping can seem intimidating at first—especially when faced with the logistics of gear, safety, and legality—but for Nick Hallissey, that fear became a source of adventure. In his first solo wild camping experience, he decided to confront the challenge head-on by choosing a bold location: Blencathra, a mountain in England’s Lake District. Instead of easing into it with a group or seasoned camper, he opted to go alone, believing that the full experience would best come from exposure. Preparation played a vital role in overcoming nerves. Nick took the time to thoroughly test his gear before the trip, practiced packing, and even learned how to properly compress a sleeping bag. He stripped his kit down to the bare essentials—a lightweight tent, backpacking stove, sleeping bag and mat, a head torch, food, warm layers, and navigation tools. He avoided luxuries to keep things light and focused on functionality. Choosing the right location was just as important as packing smart. Blencathra offered accessible terrain, incredible views, and low risk of disturbing others. He also made sure to inform someone of his plans, check the weather forecast, and come up with a backup location in case conditions shifted. Once on the summit, Nick enjoyed an unforgettable night in solitude—taking in the silence, the sunset, and a spectacular sunrise that made all the effort worthwhile. While wild camping is legally permitted in parts of Scotland, in England and Wales it generally requires landowner permission. That said, Nick emphasizes the importance of following the spirit of responsible wild camping—arriving late, pitching discreetly, avoiding open fires, and leaving no trace. It’s this respectful approach that helps preserve access and the wild experience for others. The article also includes a list of gear that made the night more comfortable, such as the MSR Hubba NX Solo tent, Jetboil MiniMo stove, and Rab Ascent 500 sleeping bag. Despite initial doubts, the experience left Nick more confident—not just in his ability to camp, but in tackling challenges in everyday life. His key takeaway? With the right mindset and preparation, anyone can enjoy the freedom and beauty of wild camping. See the Full Article: " How to Survive Your First Wild Camp " by Nick Hallissey on Live for the Outdoors , July 23, 2025.

On my birthday on July 4th 2021, in order to get to Chaco Canyon with time to spend there, we headed out of the Phoenix valley at 10:30pm after attending a party for a short time. Knowing we would have to setup camp late, we reserved a 2.5 acre camping spot near the Petrified Forest National Park for $39 by AirBNB. We arrived in the area at 2:30 in the morning to find it had recently rained and the dirt roads had large puddles. Being it was dark, we had a difficult time locating the exact spot, so we parked and walked a short distance to locate our camp site. When doing so we saw frogs and woke many birds that had been resting in the bushes. We located the camp site that was equipped with a small "shade" structure that was missing the shade, a picnic table and a fire pit with a small bundle of fire wood. We returned to retrieve our truck and made our way to setup our tent. We enjoyed looking at the stars for a bit and listening to the frogs and nearby trains before getting a little bit of sleep. In the morning we packed up and hoped the muddy roads had dried up, this was not the case. The second puddle on this narrow road, I got us stuck, due to insufficient speed. While I'm equipped with a shovel, I had yet to purchase recovery tracks. We messed around with shoveling dry dirt and rocks, but no success. We recalled the logs at camp and sent my son a short walk to bring a few. Using the logs, we were able to get free and on our way we went for the rest of our 8 day adventure. I since have purchased recovery tracks from Go Treads. I'm all about saving space and products that are made in the USA. Check them out at https://gotreads.com

Ruby was a mining town that supported the Montana mine, about 70 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona in the Oro Blanco Mining District, near the Mexican border. Settled at 4,200 feet altitude, amongst beautiful rolling hills and rugged canyons west of the Atascosa Mountains, the mine and old mining camp lie at the foot of 5,370-foot Montana Peak, the most distinctive landmark in the area. RUBY's HISTORY ​The first Europeans to visit the Ruby area were Spanish conquistadors in the late 1500’s. In the 19th century the region was referred to as “Oro Blanco,” or white gold after a distinctive light colored strain. Later, as colonists moved west, there was an influx of adventurers, mountain men, ranchers and miners. The first strike in the Montana vein was in the late 1870’s, and by the turn of the century, the town of Ruby had become the largest mining camp in the area. Site of fortunes made and lost and two famous double homicides, Ruby was once the largest lead and zinc producing mine in the state of Arizona. The museum houses artifacts from mining days, plus photos of what Ruby was like when 1,200 people lived near the mine at the height of its production. Visit: www.rubyaz.com #RubyAZ #GhostTown #Camping

A chimney charcoal starter is a metal cylinder designed to quickly and safely light charcoal for grilling. It works by filling the top with charcoal and the bottom with crumpled paper or fire starters. When lit, the airflow through the chimney ignites the charcoal evenly, eliminating the need for lighter fluid. This method provides consistent heat in about 15-20 minutes, making it a safe, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to other lighting methods. Plus, it avoids the residual taste and potential hazards associated with lighter fluid. Materials Needed: Charcoal chimney starter Charcoal briquettes, number dependent upon amount required for your cooking. Fire starter material (e.g., newspaper, a fire starter cube, or paraffin wax starter) Matches or a lighter Heat-safe gloves Instructions: Position the Chimney Starter: Place the chimney starter on a heat-safe surface, such as a grill grate, fireproof mat, or bare ground. Ensure it is in a location with good ventilation. Add Fire Starter Material: Stuff crumpled newspaper or other fire starter material in the bottom compartment of the chimney starter. Fill with Briquettes: Add charcoal briquettes into the top section of the chimney starter. Ensure the chimney is full but not overflowing. Ignite the Fire Starter: Light the fire starter material at several points using a long lighter or matchstick. The flames should reach the bottom of the briquettes. Wait for the Briquettes to Light: Allow the briquettes to heat for 10–15 minutes. You'll know they are ready when the top briquettes are covered in white ash, indicating they are fully lit and at cooking temperature. Pour Out the Coals: Once the briquettes are ready, carefully lift the chimney starter by its handle using heat-safe gloves. Pour the hot coals into your cooking area (e.g., underneath and on top of a Dutch oven) or grill as needed. Distribute and Start Cooking: Spread the briquettes evenly based on your heat requirements. Safety Tips: Always use heat-safe gloves and tongs when handling the chimney starter and hot briquettes. Ensure the setup is away from flammable materials. Avoid lighting the chimney in windy conditions to prevent sparks from spreading.