Looking Back on 10 Years

Ten years ago, I posted my first blog article. The launch date, May 10, 2015, was chosen because the date would be easy to remember – 5/10/15. While I haven’t posted as often recently, the adventures of being a backyard tourist continue – including some explorations earlier today, which are the best kind because they were unplanned.

When I started this blog, we lived in California and the focus was on San Diego, theme parks, and our local adventures. In 2017, we started exploring Route 66, so those road trips became part of the blog. During the pandemic in 2020, I found that focusing on backyard tourist day trips was a welcome diversion from so much being shut down. In 2022, we moved to northern Arizona and there were new areas to explore.

Mid-morning today, as we were driving on an old alignment of Route 66 in Parks, Arizona, we stopped at a pullout and noticed an informational sign that said “Historic Route 66 Auto Tour” at the start of a trailhead. We stopped to read it and learned that the trail was part of the National Old Trails Road that became Route 66 from 1931 through 1941. Beyond an opening in the fence, this part of Route 66 is no longer for vehicles and is a 3/4-mile-long section of ‘ghost rode’ that is a walking/hiking trail. As you walk, you travel back in time imagining when this part of The Mother Road was a hub for travelers and tourists in the 1930s. We didn’t have a chance to walk too far back today; however, we will be back to explore this ghost road.   

Before we explored Route 66 today, we started the morning at Sunset Crater National Monument. We wanted to check out the views of the San Francisco Peaks covered with snow – yes, snow on May 10^th – and the snow-capped scenery did not disappoint. Sunset Crater is part of the National Park Service and there is a daily fee unless you have the America the Beautiful Pass. When you enter Sunset Crater from Flagstaff on U.S. Highway 89 North drive to the Cinder Hills Overlook and enjoy the view. From there, you can either continue on the road to Wupatki National Monument, or you can head back toward the Sunset Crater Visitor Center and U.S. Hwy 89. If you choose to head back, you will be able to enjoy the postcard views of the peaks unfold as you drive along the way.

Part of being a backyard tourist is being open to adventure and seizing the opportunity to explore. We knew that if we waited until tomorrow to go to Sunset Crater, the snow-capped scene, while subtly changed, would not be the same. In the short time that we’ve lived in Arizona, we take every chance we can to get out and learn the hidden spots, paths less traveled, and historic treasures waiting to be appreciated.

We have been to the Grand Canyon numerous times since we moved to Arizona with every visit being unique. And yet, some who were born and raised in Arizona, the “Grand Canyon State,” have never visited one of the seven wonders of the world in their backyard. Which is the point. How come tourists come from all over the world to experience the scenic wonders and other historic places that we could enjoy on a day trip or staycation? It is time to get out there and travel, whether it is near or far.

There’s a quote by Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, that has resonated with me for several years which goes: “The days are long, but the years are short.” In a blip, a decade has gone by. Being a backyard tourist brings me happiness and helps me to appreciate the little things. Every day is an adventure, if we take the time to be present and notice the world around us.

What backyard tourist explorations or staycations have you experienced recently?
Looking forward to hearing from you in the comments!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”