Tonight’s ‘lodging’, Constellation Campground, adjacent to the rodeo grounds. A sweet find just up the hill from the small town of Wickenburg. “Founded in 1863, Wickenburg saw its population swell after gold was discovered in the nearby Vulture Mine. Wells Fargo stagecoaches spread the news and new settlers moved to town as gold fever swept the country.” It seems like a feisty town with a colorful history.
Enjoyed a walk in the Hassayampa River Preserve. The name “Hassayampa” comes from a Yavapai Indian word, hayesamo, meaning “following the water as far as it goes.” Apache Indians referred to it as the “upside down river” because it flows underground most of the way”.
Another hot and spectacularly beautiful drive into the mountains on Hwy 89 towards Prescott. My intention had been to pay respects at the Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial. However, that was not to be due to the trailhead location which would have us climbing the steep and winding White Spar Highway up the mountain again. Instead, we finished the climb and continued on through the town of Yarnell, (lovely) and into Prescott and
Yavapai FS Campground, Site #14. However, the campground was full, and Site #14 was occupied.