Feb 13-14: Ruby Rd and thereabouts

I would like to propose a journey into Arizona's past!

The Ruby Rd in southern arizona covers a lot of interesting terrain and history. The highlight is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the southwest. I believe it's open from Thursday-Sunday... you just drive in and give the caretaker $12. I am verifying this information though.

Much of the trip would be on easy graded roads, although multiple shorter sidebars will be legit 4x4-Low. Along the way we'll encounter mines, lakes, fun trails and great views.

Intent is to leave Saturday morning (fairly early), camping along the road somewhere when it gets dark, and then returning to Phoenix by mid afternoon Sunday.

Google Ruby ghost town for more info and let me know if you have any other questions. JD, you said earlier you were interested. Craig, you're already down there. The more the merrier.

 Chris,

I'm definitely still interested. I get paid that Monday before the weekend so finances should be available. Camping out sounds good. I'll check it out on Google as you suggested. I'll let you know the closer it gets.

JD

Ok JD, sure hope you can make it!

 I may be in for this, but it will depend on funds that weekend, thankfully it is on a weekend I am off, finally!

Craig

Cool Craig, keep us posted.

OK - it's official, I'm a no go for this weekend. It's Valentines Day on Sunday and DD has made plans. Also Saturday is a boy scout function that I will be attending with my son. Sorry guys. One of these days I'll be able to get out and play.

JD 

That's a bummer JD, I'm sure you'll make it out one of these days 

I just confirmed the site will be open that weekend and the cost is $12 per person ($18 to fish the catch-and-release pond).  The crusty caretaker, who goes by the name "Sun Dog" will give a short summary of the history and grounds then you can take as long as you want to poke around. My goal is to get there around 12:30 and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Ruby, primitive camping nearby immediately afterward.

Right now it's just me and my dad, and that's fine, I'm more than used to traveling solo... but anyone is welcome.

 Chris,  are you planning on camping there?  I am now off that weekend, but not sure I can do an over nighter.  This is an area I have not explored, and would like to.  I am not sure how far it is from me and what the distances to travel will be.  I am just curious because of funds, and would like to know before I commit.  Let me know what you think, and maybe we can at least meet up for the afternoon or something if you think that is possible.

Craig

I am camping but you're close enough to drive home the same day if you need to. The I-19 Ruby Rd turn-off is about 6 miles north of Nogales... maybe about 65 road miles from you. I figure we can meet at the I-19 turn-off around 10:30am and check out the area. After the Ruby ghost town near the end of the day I'll find a place to camp and you can head home if you must.

There won't be much 4x4 that first day though, it's mostly graded roads and points of interest on foot. The second day will be tougher southwest of Ruby... an old mining area with 4x4 trails. I am hoping to hit the highway Sunday about 1pm and be home in Buckeye about 4pm.