SONORAN RIVER TOAD

The Sonoran River Toad or the Colorado River Toad as it's sometimes called inhabits the southwestern portion of the United States and the northern portion of Mexico. Lured out of its burrows by the summer rains, the toad is nocturnal but occasionally can be seen in the late afternoon or early morning hours, especially after a rainstorm. Carnivorous by nature, the toad feeds on insects, small lizards and even other toads to survive.

As part of its defense mechanism, the toad produces a toxin that is potent enough to kill its predators. This poison is a chemical that is part of the hallucinogenic tryptamines family and can cause hallucinations and can also raise body temperatures with increase heart rates as well.

Farming these toads for the toxin is illegal under Arizona law, though possession of the toad itself is allowed. Other states such as California and New Mexico have placed the toad on the endangered and threatened species list and prohibit the capture of the toad.

OLD TUCSON STUDIOS

In 1939 when workers hastily built over 50 structures for the filming of the movie ‘Arizona’, no one knew that that those temporary buildings would be transformed into the icon of Old Tucson Studios.
During World War Two the movie set went unused and with only several movies filmed in the late 1940’s. But the beginning of the 1950’s brought with it renewed interest in western movies. Over 16 movies were filmed during the 50’s alone and include such movie classics as ‘Gunfight at the OK Corral’, and ‘Rio Bravo’. John Wayne, in addition to his film ‘Rio Bravo’, also completed three other memorable films, ‘McLintock!’ El Dorado’ and ‘Rio Lobo’ at Old Tucson Studios.
Many television series were also filmed in part at Old Tucson Studios including ‘Little House On The Prairie, ‘Bonanza’ and ‘Gunsmoke’.
On April 25, 1995, a fire broke out in Old Tucson Studios. High winds, dry conditions and the fact that water had to be trucked in from 40 miles away, resulted in much of the studio being destroyed including a great deal of historic movie memorabilia.
After 20 months of rebuilding, Old Tucson Studios opened its doors once again to the public. Many tourists still visit the studios daily for a chance to walk the same streets that their heroes had walked and to enjoy the shows, gunfights and great food.
Directions to Old Tucson Studios - From I-10, exit I-19 south. Head south on I-19. Take Ajo Way (Hwy. 86) exit, and travel west to Kinney Road. Turn right (north) and follow the signs. I-19 is accessible from I-10 south of Speedway. If you are already in town, you may still take Speedway Boulevard and head west. This will eventually turn into Gates Pass Road and take you on a scenic trip through the Tucson Mountain range. This route does not allow for long vehicles such as RVs, buses, and vehicles hauling trailers.

GILA MONSTER

One of only two venomous lizards found in North America, the Gila Monster makes it’s home in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Named for the Gila River basin where it was first discovered this beautiful reptile is easily recognized by bright orange, pink and black beady scales that form unique designs and cover it’s entire body.
The Gila Monster is carnivorous and feeds on small birds, frogs, lizards and other small rodents. They have an acute sense of smell, which enables them to locate hidden prey and find meals that are buried in the ground.
Reaching a length of up to two feet, the Gila Monster is slow moving and therefore presents little threat to humans. It’s venom has been compared to that of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake but the Gila Monster only produces small amounts of venom and lacks the hollow fangs used by rattlesnakes to inject their venom. Instead they use a grinding or chewing motion to force the venom into their prey and the bite of a Gila Monster is extremely painful.
Even though the Gila Monster spends 95% of it’s life underground, they are spotted occasionally basking in the early morning sun or lying in pools of water after a summer rainstorm.
The reptile is given protection by Arizona and Nevada State laws because of the decline in their numbers. If you are lucky enough to see a Gila Monster, take a few photos, appreciate the opportunity and leave it alone.

BABOQUIVARI PEAK

To the Tohono O’odham people in southern Arizona, Baboquivari Peak holds the key to the beginning of life on earth. This mysterious and sacred mountain is believed to be the home of I’itoi the creator who, to this day, still watches over his people.
Legends surround this beautiful mountain wilderness and contain stories of hidden treasure and Spanish conquistadors greedy for gold. One legend tells of the ruthless Spaniards being swallowed by the earth as they dug their way into the mountainside looking for gold.
Located 50 miles west of Tucson on Route 86, the peak stands at 7,730 feet and can be seen jutting into the sky for miles around with the east face of the peak being the most conspicuous feature in the mountain range. The peak is very popular with hikers and rock climbers and is considered by some to be the best backpacking in Arizona.
Permission is needed to camp on the mountain and permits can be obtained from the Baboquivari Mountain Park. The number to call is 520-383-2366.

FRED'S WAGONS

Among the many interesting things to see at Fred's Arena and Steakhouse are the wagons which are sitting about on the grounds. Some of these wagons were actually built by Fred himself and many are still in use today. People from all over the southwest rent these wagons for special occasions such as weddings, funerals and graduation parties. For more information please visit www.fredswagons.com.

GOLFING AT FRED'S

In addition to the great food and atmosphere found at Fred's Arena and Steakhouse, there is a world class golf course located on the grounds. Sunday morning tee times are the busiest with patrons arriving early for a delicious breakfast before teeing off. Just remember to check for rattlesnakes before digging around in that sand trap looking for your ball.

FRED'S ARENA & STEAKHOUSE

No trip to Tucson would be complete without a visit to Fred's Arena & Steakhouse. Located some 20 miles west of Tucson on a forty acre working ranch, Fred's offers a unique dining experience. Steaks, burgers and chops are perfectly seasoned and mesquite grilled on a indoor brick grill centered in the dining area. In addition, the hot wings and Chicago style pizza are delicious and the full service bar offers up cold and refreshing drinks. The rustic interior of the steakhouse only adds to the atmosphere and the service is terrific.

Directions: West on Ajo to Sierrita Mountain Road, South to Ava Road and a half mile to Fred's.

GATES PASS

Gates Pass offers many hiking trails and a great place to watch spectacular Arizona sunsets. Just twenty minutes west of Tucson, the drive alone is worth the trip. The winding road through the Tucson Mountains is lined with giant saguaros, prickly pear cacti and magnificent rock formations. Coyote and javelina can sometimes be seen wandering through the mountains along with bobcats and an occasional mule deer. Considered to one of the best locations for watching sunsets by locals and tourists alike, Gates Pass offers a panoramic view of the Sonoran Desert.

Just follow Speedway Blvd. to Gates Pass Road and remember to use caution while driving as the Tucson Mountains are popular with cyclists.