It seems I’ll be spending more time in the Arizona high country in the coming months.
And so I look forward to revisiting one of my favorite places to watch the sun go down: the Kachina Wetlands, just a few miles south of Flagstaff.
The Wetlands are “manmade”, formed from tractor-dug detention basins pumped with reclaimed water. Regardless, it sure is a beautiful area, and not just the water features.
It’s the view of the San Francisco Peak’s iconic silhouette that draws me in. I grew up looking at that mountain, it’s the symbol I most associate with “home.” So it should come as no surprise that I love taking pictures of “The Peaks” — as Flagstaff locals lovingly call them.
The old growth Ponderosa Pines add their own idyllic interest too. There’s just something about the way their cinnamon-brown bark glows so elegantly as it catches the late-day sun — their long green needles (three to a bunch) clattering in the summer breeze.
If you’re a avian lover, you might do like my friend Brittain (he subscribes to the Daily Dose too!) and come to watch the birds — over 200 distinct species have been spotted at the Wetlands. I’ve never been much of a birder myself, but perhaps that might change this summer.
How about this: I’ll challenge myself to take a bird photo (that I’m proud of) at the Wetlands this year and share it in this space. Should be a good time.
I hope you’re looking forward to summer as much as I am. Now have a great Tuesday, my friends.
-Jake
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