During our west coast odyssey, we were lucky enough to spend almost two weeks in Tucson AND we were doubly lucky to enjoy a March heatwave. After our first ride (of nine) we went without arm and leg warmers, and even shed the heavy “under” layers. It was fabulous to enjoy summer riding so early in the year.
We stayed in a cute house which was a tenth of a mile from The Loop, Tucson’s 100+ mile cycling system. Frequent travel companions Mitzi and John joined us for most of the trip. When we are together, we share our love of cycling, eating and fun!
It’s our third consecutive year visiting Tucson and we are still doing new things. This year we rode out to the San Xavier del Bac Mission for a little sightseeing. The roads out to the Spanish Catholic mission were a bit rough, but it is an impressive structure.
Our first weekend in town was also Air Show weekend and Roger routed us to the Davis-Monthan AFB so we could watch some of “Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona 2025”.
Okay, it’s very hard to photograph stunt planes…I tried my best. It was a long, hot day and we couldn’t stay to see the Thunderbirds perform, but we did see them practicing over the skies of Tucson the previous day while we rode to the mission.
Tucson residents Mike and Caren organized an Oro Valley Tandem club ride (and pot luck dinner) to celebrate Caren’s Birthday. Due to logistical issues we met the group enroute and missed the group start.
Later in the week, we increased the fun factor when we met up with Lonnie, Carol, Steve and Pam for a ride to the Estrella Bakery. Three couples did the short climb up the “A” mountain for the views. All of us enjoyed the baked goods.
On a rest day, we hiked in Pima Canyon. We got a late start and it was pretty hot. The path got just a little too rocky (and dangerous) for sure-footed (NOT) Eve, so we cut it short.
The cacti were varied and abundant!
And now, the moment everyone is waiting for – the sweets and treats!
We close with some shots of the local flora. Although we saw lots of hummingbirds, road runners and various varmints, none were photographed.
The mileage total for the nine rides was around 320 miles. Hardly any of it was on the road.
Coming up: back to California for a few days and then a return trip to Arizona to celebrate a special occasion. Our travel agent is keeping us very busy!
Eve and Roger's Cycling Adventures 
You do a beautiful job with your blog. Photos and commentary fun to see and read. Thanks.
Sorry we missed you when you were here. Maybe next year we can connect for a ride, coffee or meal.
It was nice seeing you both! Thank you for the card and cake. When you head back to Arizona, will it be Tucson or someplace else?
Great photos and descriptions. I laughed out loud with the “sorta deformed Saguaro Cactus cookie.” Glad it was warm and sunny. Beautiful trails!