Green Valley Travel Guide

A County Park. But it at least equals most state parks that I have seen. Set in the Santa Rita Mountains, Madera Canyon consists of a series of several trails (some as long as 30 miles round trip) which circle the peaks of the Santa Rita Mountains. In fact, if a hiker has the stamina, an ascent of Mt. Wrightson (9453 feet) can be made. I only got up to about 7500 feet, but a good hike nonetheless.

$15 as of February 2013. I eat fairly often at Denny's when I am on the road because I have a good idea what the quality of the food will be and they have a few items (like the Tilapia Ranchero) which I like and that are heart friendly. The food at this Denny's was about what I expected and the service was a bit above average. I especially liked the hostess who was a sweet lady several years into senior citizenship (I would guess mid to late 80s).

Favorite Dish: Enjoyed my Tilapia Ranchero and the bowl of clam chowder.

The Easy Street Lounge is a small seemingly quiet bar attached to the Arizona Family Restaurant. There are no pool tables or dart boards or much of anything else except a bar, bar stools and a few booths. The only things there appeared to be to do is watch the TV (small screens) and drink. It did not appear to be a very happening place.

Dress Code: I did not notice any dress code. Mostly I saw sweatshirts and jeans.

When in Green Valley, one must golf. I think it is a local ordinance.

The weather is great, the golf courses are plentiful, so why not tee it up for some relaxing fun in the Arizona desert. Plus chances are good that wildlife will be on view.

Favorite thing: The Sonoran desert is not well know for its trees. Yet Madera Canyon is nothing but trees. First hardwoods then pine forests. It all has to do with elevation. The higher up the more the rain falls and the cooler the temperatures. The residents of Green Valley tell me they spend summer evenings watching the thunderstorms rattle the Santa Rita Mountains while getting nary a drop only twenty miles away.