Let your arms do some of the work. The historical clash of American Indian, European and Mexican cultures, combined with a seemingly timeless topography make southeastern Arizona perpetually interesting, and I find myself returning on this Saturday morning for yet another in series of weekend visits that began more than 22 years ago. As I round a soft, wheat colored curve in the rolling foothills of the Eastern Huachuca Mountains, I take in the panorama before me. White prickly poppies sporadically break the plane of the foot-high grass that sweeps across the steppes to the abrupt escarpment of the mountains.
Ancient oaks form huge canopies as they rest their curved boughs on the ground.
The Huachuca Mountains glow with the first light of day. I stop at the large sign telling me I have entered the National Memorial and marvel at the towering presence of Montezuma Peak as it holds court over the surrounding country. Unlike national monuments and parks, which protect tangible buildings or landmarks, the Coronado National Memorial commemorates an event. Inside the visitor center, a collection of interpretive materials is highlighted by a nine-minute documentary video celebrating the Spanish exploration of the New World. It especially details the journey of Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, who came to the North America in 1540 in search of gold.