Arizona and the desert have a lot of detractors. I’ve met many of them throughout my life here, usually before they depart back East, and I’m sure I know many still. The arguments run along these lines: it’s hot, the landscape is dreary, it’s hot, there are no trees, and it’s hot. Whatever your opinion of Arizona and its politics, culture (or lack thereof) and vegetation — it’s a beautiful state. Almost anywhere you go, the view is framed by mountains, now with snow-covered peaks, and they’re sort of looking out as if waiting to finally be appreciated. During my drive up to Wickenburg, I had plenty of time to appreciate.
I wanted to go to Jerome but since the winter storm hit the High Country, it seems a lot of roads in that area are shut down. So I looked for some other location, closer to the Valley and without dangerous driving conditions. Wickenburg is about 30 miles northwest of Phoenix and perfect for a short day trip. My goals were simple: take my camera out of dusty storage and learn about a different part of Arizona. Towns, I believe, are like parts of a puzzle in a state’s history. The more I visit, they more I understand, and then the more understanding I can be to a culture which is often still foreign to me.
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