State Parks with Great Appeal: Picacho Peak

Arizona is a magnet for travelers. And for good reason: incredibly painted skies against which virtual forests of immense multi-armed cacti display their dignified spires; deep, rich cultural history of Native American, Spanish and American influences; a blanket of wildflowers covering the desert terrain in spring.

Tucked away in some of the most vibrant areas of Arizona are 28 state parks; one of which, located in the southern region of Arizona, was a particular favorite of travelers, Ken and Ann:Picacho Peak.They speak highly of their experiences at the Park in their site, http://www.mytripjournal.com/ann-ken.

Interstate highway 10 crosses Arizona to the south, and when passing east of Casa Grande, you will arrive at Picacho Peak Park.Construction has just been completed on the new Visitor’s Center, which is rated “silver” on the LEEDS scale for environmental consciousness; a first for Arizona State parks.The park’s name was given centuries ago by the Spanish, and literally is a duplication of names, as Picacho is the Spanish word for “peak”, so its translated name is, quite simply, Peak Peak.

The peak is part of the Picacho Mountains, which has its historical roots imbedded in Civil War history.A military outpost was built in Tucson and later abandoned at the onset of the war as soldiers joined ranks with the Union or Confederate armies.In 1862, members of each of the Union and Confederate troops met in a battle around Picacho Peak; providing possibly the westernmost conflict of the Civil War now referred to as the Battle of Picacho Pass.It has the distinction of being the only Civil War battle fought in Arizona.

Today, that skirmish is re-enacted every March in remembrance of the part Picacho Peak played in Civil War History.

Many people visiting Picacho Peak enjoy the hiking opportunities the mountain range offers.Trails that wind their way to the top reward the hiker with spectacular views of Arizona landscapes.Some areas along the trails become a bit trying, and cables have been installed to assist climbers.Numerous mountain ranges in a panoramic setting can be viewed from the peak’s summit:Santa Catalina to the south, Tabletop to the northwest, as well as those that surround Phoenix to the north.

Since ancient days, Picacho Peak has been used as a landmark, with one of the first documented citations dating to the early 1700’s.Towering over 3,300 feet above sea level, the peak overlooked some of history’s greatest achievements besides the Civil War, such as early railroading days with the Southern Pacific railroad, wagon trains and stage coach travel.

Many people, such as Ken and Ann, have made good on their promise to investigate this interesting peak.When traveling through southern Arizona along Interstate Highway 10, pay close attention to the passing scenery between Tucson and Phoenix.Jutting proudly into the Arizona sky will be Picacho Peak and you, like many travelers in days past, can gaze in awe at the incredible natural landmark.

Dan Parlow

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