To Chino Valley and Back

Day 1

Needing a few days away from the heat in Surprise, we headed up to visit friends in Chino Valley, Arizona. At an altitude of just over 4,700 feet, it would be just what we needed. The initial part of the drive on US 60 is less than interesting, but once on State 89 the scenery, as well as the temperature, improved. Passing through Congress (population 1,811) we started the climb up the White Spar Highway, which is home to some rather spectacular views.

Part way up the highway is the Granet Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park. The park was created to remember the nineteen members of the Granet Mountain Hotshots that died there on June 30, 2013, fighting the Yarnell Hill Fire.

At the top are the towns of Yarnell (population 579), Peeples Valley (population 374) and Wilhoit (population 664). Not a lot of large towns in this neck of the woods. From Wilhoit to Prescott is about 14 miles of twisty, curvy road that you do not want to leave, as the drops are severe. Once in Prescott, we stopped for lunch at the LazyG Brewery. This is a must stop for us every up to visit our friends and its always the Turkey Club Wrap and Sunshine Blonde Ale.

Arriving in Chino Valley, we spent the rest of the day visiting with old friends that were neighbors from our Oregon days. And there may have been some adult beverages joining the conversation.

Day 2

The first morning in Chino Valley means The Skillet for breakfast. The Early Bird menu is great and the coffee is free. Anywhere else you are paying $3 to $3.50 a cup, but not at The Skillet.

The rest of the day was spent visiting and solving many of the World’s problems, followed by diner at the Texas Roadhouse. Three orders Country Fried Chicken and one order Fried Catfish, along with two sides apiece, made for an excellent diner. No wonder the place was packed at four in the afternoon. Four diners and drinks for under $90, what a deal.

Back at the house for a little more of the adult beverage and then a good night’s sleep.

Day 3

Since our hosts had appointments in the morning, we were up and on the road early. Not wanting to drive back through Prescott, we took usual route home through Skull Valley to Yarnell. Just as scenic, but a lot less curvy. A quick stop in Wickenburg at the new Starbucks and we were home. Nice drive and its always good to visit with old friends.