Exploring Arizona- Boyce Thompson Arboretum

I’m so happy I get to write this post because I’ve wanted to travel more often. This is actually one of the reasons why I created this blog, to force myself (Or take the initiative) to travel. I was unable to go anywhere because of the weather and my normal job kept me busy, but on October 22, 2017, I went to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum!

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located outside of Superior, Arizona. The arboretum was established in the 1920’s and is the oldest and largest arboretums in the state of Arizona. There are hiking trails in the park along with gardens with different themes.

I’ve been to this arboretum quite a lot when I was younger, but it’s been so many years since I’ve been there that I don’t remember much about it. Because of this, on this trip I decided to take less photos I would have normally would have. That way I could explore the arboretum and enjoy it more than obsessively taking great photos. I did take many photos that I’m proud of, but for the most part I would walk around and think “This cactus/trail/mountain/building looks familiar to me but I don’t remember why.” I plan on going back one day, but I think I’ll end up not taking many photos again just so I could try remember it at a slower pace.

If you are interested in learning more about the Boyce Thompson Arboretum or go there yourself, you can read more about it and it’s history at it’s website here or at the Arizona State Park’s website here.

In the arboretum, there is one main trail, called the Main Loop Trail, and other trails that are connected to the Main Loop Trail.

There are also gardens such as the cactus garden…

With plans such as this Boo Jum from Mexico…

This Cardon Grande cactus from North Western Argentina…

And this fuzzy cactus that I don’t know the name of…

Along the Main Loop Trail is a man made lake called Ayer Lake…

Which looks like this…

The lake is a great place to go bird spotting as well as a nice place to sit and rest after hiking the Main Loop.

Although the side trails are are wheelchair accessible, there is a part of the Main Loop Trail that is not wheelchair accessible. The trail become steep, but the scenery is beautiful…

Along the trail you can see the Picket Post House, a house that is built on the edge of the cliff and is located inside the park…

I should also mention that the part of the trail next to the Picket Post house is the steepest part of the Main Loop Trail.

Overall, I enjoyed visiting the arboretum and seeing how things have changed or not changed. I would recommend visiting the arboretum to anyone who whats to see or learn more about deserts and desert plants, especially Arizona’s desert. If anyone wants to visit the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, I suggest bringing water bottles, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes, especially if you are walking the whole entire Main Loop Trial.

That’s all for now! Thank you for reading!