I never knew Arizona and Mexico would be so beautiful. The entire ride out to the trailhead I was mesmerized by the surrounding landscape. Mountains towered over us as we moved ever closer to the start of our journey. Rather than being covered by trees, the hillsides were covered by tall grass and scattered with shrubs. A major difference from the forested landscape we are use to back east.

As we approached the start of our journey our driver gave us some info on the area. Even though a fire had decimated these hillsides only a decade ago, they were full of life. He was sure to let us know about the wildlife we could encounter in the area including mountain lions, bears, wild pigs, deer, rattlesnakes and more. As we arrived at the trailhead we knew the moment was here. Something we have been discussing for almost two years was finally set to begin.

Standing atop the Arizona Trail in Coronado National Memorial we could see maybe 100 miles into the distance. Even with a haze cast over the earth, we were blown away by just how much landscape we could see stretching in every direction. Mexico was just a short distance away and Arizona firmly under our feet. Amazing landscapes that look identical, as far as the eye can see, with only a steel wall separating the two.

Daily Mileage: 6.2 Total AZT Miles Completed: 4.3 of 788.7