They're shivering in the East, pulling out their sweaters an snow boots.ย
In Tucson, we're headed outdoors in T-shirts and and our hiking boots.ย
A favorite spot for an autumn hike or leisurely stroll: Catalina State Park.ย
Tucked into the base of the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains on the northwest side of Tucson, there areย 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons and streams,ย desert plants, wildlife and about 5,000 saguaros, according to the website.ย
We headed out Thursday, a day after the rain, and the park was bursting with green and gently flowing water.ย
The park has camping spots, but it is ideal for hike or stroll on the well marked trails.ย We hiked the Romero Canyon Trail โ and got our feet wet crossing the stream four times.
You'll pay $7 per vehicle with up to four adults. Ask for a map, and follow the roadway to the trailhead.ย
Catalina State Park is located at 11570 N. Oracle Road. Callย 628-5798 for information.ย For camping reservations, call theย Reservation Center at 520-586-2283.
More info online atย azstateparks.com/Parks/CATA/
