The 110 miles south on US 89 and I17 between Cameron and Cottonwood AZ is not particularly scenic or fun to drive. What was interesting was watching the scenery and temperature change as we rolled along. As we left Cameron, elevation 4200’ the temperature was 84d. The terrain was red rock and semi-arid plain.
As we neared Gray Mountain the low growing plants were replaced by shrubs and low growing trees and grass. The temp dropped to 80 and the elevation rose to 5000’.
At the summit—6000’ the vegetation included tall evergreen trees, grass, and wildflowers. The temp dropped to 74d. We drove through a rain storm that dropped the temp to 64,
then started down the mountain at a 4-6% grade for 18 miles.
When we reached Cottonwood at the bottom of Gray Mountain, we were back among the semi-arid steppe—altitude 3300’ and a temp of 85d.
A nice way to end the day.
Chores today, chores tomorrow.
Louise and Duane
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