The Kartchner Tour

Yesterday we packed our hiking boots, camera, lunch, and plenty of water. Our required reservations for the Kartchner Caverns had been confirmed. Once we toured the gift shop, saw the informative video, and took pictures of the lovely gardens, we had lunch in the picnic area. At 12:45 P.M. Jerry suggested that we hike the loop trail prior to visiting the cave. “The trail is 2 and ½ miles.” Gloria reminded him. “It is also warm in the sun, and we just ate a big lunch.” “Oh come on, Gloria, you will be glad you did it. It will be an easy walk!” Off we went, and Jerry was right. The rugged, picturesque Foothills Trail was not that tough; climbing was minimal. However, when one is on a tight schedule, stopping to take pictures can be problematic. About half-way around the loop, we began to ask, “Are we there yet?” We stopped taking pictures and put our legs in gear. We arrived at the Discovery Center for the 90 minute tour with 20 minutes to spare. The tram took us up the hill to the cave. The guide was well-trained and thorough. We entered a 420-foot-long tunnel sealed by airtight doors. As we passed through the final air-lock, we entered the Rotunda Room. The lighting was dim, but using a flashlight, the guide showed the flows of the elaborate butterscotch-colored "drapery." Pieces of the wall shimmered like diamond specks. Each fragile Soda Straw Stalactite (actually hollow calcite) had a tiny drop of water at its tip. One of them is the longest in the world.