Connected

And I'm not talking about WiFi. This weekend, we unplugged and went off the grid (well, except the few with Verizon - they truly have the best coverage) at Hualapai Mountain Park. Frank and I have been a few times before, but this time we had a large crew to join us. Our group of 22 was spread out in four cabins and two RVs. With only a few of us having been before, everyone had fun exploring, enjoyed the crisp air and wildlife. Nights were spent under the stars around the campfire, and the day was filled with RZR rides, riding bikes, hikes and a visit to the park.

There were six RZRs among us. The first ride was to the Gold King Mansion, Frank was the trail leader. Having been a couple times, I stayed back at the cabin and gave up my seat to Nick. Meanwhile, I prepped crockpot chili for lunch, fixings for dinner, and kept busy with girls, Amy and Jeff. When they went down for a nap, I read a book under the shady tree. It was delightful. The gang returned for lunch, but two RZRs were down for the count. Both suffered A-Arm damage. The group for the afternoon run shrunk. Four RZRs headed out for the Boriana Mine. I tagged along for this one. The trail used to be quite smooth, with the exception of a few rock gardens where the trail had washed out. Now, it's deeply rutted in several areas and more loose rock and boulders to dodge. The heavy rains have bolstered the desert flora. Bright wildflower blooms were such a treat and it was so lush, well, as much as the desert can be. Unfortunately, only half of us made it to the mine. The other two RZRs turned back when the A-Arm bushings were toast on one.



While at the mine, we stopped to feed the goldfish. It always surprises me how they survive year after year. After a full day of riding three rigs were worse for wear and three were unharmed, but most importantly everyone returned safe and sound.

When we rolled up to camp, I had to giggle at the teenager I spotted with cell in hand by the ranger station struggling to connect to WiFi at the Ranger's station. I was so relieved that all the kiddos in our group survived without electronics and the internet. They played. Just as kids should. It was wonderful. I printed off a scavenger hunt I found online, they formed teams and ventured off.



Hilarity ensued when a cactus was brought in as something smooth. Sure, it smooth, if you don't count the two to three inch needles protruding from it. It was all good fun. Even the littlest ones got a kick out of collecting rocks and pine cones.



I cannot believe we've been coming to Hualapai Mountain Park for nearly five years now. We've tent camped and stayed in the cabins. Camping is fine, but I do love the luxury of running water. If given the choice, I'd chose a cabin every time. This time, our group booked cabins 15, 12, 11 and 2. #2 is set back aways, it's all stone and quite nice. I especially like that it lacks the bunk beds that most offer.



This trip I decided I'm too old for that top bunk. The first night, we had the heat blazing and I woke completely soaked from sweat. It was slightly terrifying to see wood inches from face. Too claustrophobic and too close to a casket for comfort. Hobbling down the ladder, with a full bladder was not fun either. Next time? A cabin with no bunk, Please... or I'll bring an air mattress. All said, it was a great getaway with family and friends.

RZR Riding: Hualapai Mountain Park

We've been dying to get out on the RZR for a while now. We were anxious to get back up to Hualapai Mountain Park before the heat comes. We really enjoy the park, it is close to home just outside of Kingman, AZ. It sits at about 6,100 ft and elevation at the peak is 8,417 ft. The pine forests are home to wildlife such as elk and mountain lions. We've stayed before in the cabins, but it was too warm (and dry) for fires, and dry camped once too. This time it was nice and cool, a little too cool on Sunday and WINDY! It made me question the safety of the campfire a few times, thankfully nothing caught fire. My mom and brother shared a cabin with us and a co-worker and his family also joined us, it was a first visit for all of them. They all seemed to really enjoy it too. It's nice to unwind and unplug for a weekend. The air is fresh and crisp and it is peaceful. It's a great escape even without offroad toys, though, they do make it more fun.





















Rolling Rocks

Camping: Hualapai Mountain Park, AZ

Once the mercury begins to rise, it's time to head for the hills mountains. Temperatures are far more pleasant for long days of riding. Later this summer, we'll head up to Utah, but now it's still nice in the Hualapai Mountains. It only a couple hours away outside Kingman so it's ideal for quick weekend getaways.

It might be close to home, but the woods and pine scented fresh air will leave you feeling like you left the desert far behind. Last year, we stayed in a cabin, which was a great option. This time we roughed it and dry camped. We met up with a group of RZRs, nine in all. We stayed for two nights. Rode three days. Having no shower was tough, but manageable.

We rode the Moss Wash to the old to Gold King Mansion which was a great trail! It offers a multitude of challenges and is a really good ride. We also returned to Boriana Mine, which is an easier route, but still good fun. The campsite was real nice with firepit and picnic table. I'd return for a one night stay in a heartbeat, but when staying more nights I prefer the cabins. I really missed the shower after the second day of riding.

Camping: Sand Hollow, UT