SouthWest Archives - John Atkinson

Biosphere 2: Into the Big Terrarium

March 24, 2024 No Comments

Situated in the heart of Arizona, Biosphere 2 serves as a groundbreaking ecological research facility, meticulously designed to replicate Earth’s various ecosystems. This monumental glass structure encapsulates an array of biomes, ranging from lush rainforests to expansive oceans, facilitating unparalleled research on ecological interactions and sustainability. Scientists at Biosphere 2 undertake critical studies, examining the intricate web of life and its resilience against environmental challenges, thus offering invaluable insights into our planet’s future.

Saguaros in the Sun -Saguaro National Park

July 10, 2023 No Comments

The last time I saw a Saguaro, I was 12, about to be 13. We did this trip from Texas, where we lived , to California. Why? no idea. Ben and Sonya weren’t the sharing type in those days. On that Trip (and it was). We passed through Arizona stopping at Meteor Crater, Painted Desert and Petrified Forest. Surprising. Daddy wasn’t so much the “stop and look” type of guy in my experience. I saw saguaros for the first time as we rolled along. They waved. I waved back…

Granite Shoals Texas Quarry Park Trail

June 18, 2023 No Comments

Granite Shoals Texas is a small community that boasts a bigger and nicer city hall than Hartford CT, with a hiking/running trail in an old granite quarry. Not bad for a town that is little more than a collection of houses by a lake and a strip of businesses along State Highway 1431.

Hiking to Fort Bowie through Apache Pass

June 17, 2023 No Comments

Fort Bowie was established as a post following the battle of Apache pass in 1862. The Battle of Apache Pass took place over two days, from July 15 to 16, 1862, during the American Civil War. It was the largest conflict between the United States and the Apache Indians.

Rowdy Creek Ranch Vinyards

November 7, 2022 No Comments

Rowdy Creek Ranch Vineyards is part of the new generation of ranch-turned-winery that is beginning to define Texas as a quality wine region with a great tasting shed with food-truck fare revolving around brisket, glamping and more.

Llano Earth art Festival (LEAF) 2022

March 15, 2022 No Comments

The Llano Earth Art Festival (LEAF) is an annual event held on the Llano River at Grenswiege Park in Llano Texas in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. LEAF hosts a soundstage, an appropriate selection of vendors and the way cool Rock Stacking Championships.