Take the time to relax in the tall ponderosa pines and the higher, cooler altitude this Memorial Day weekend.  The drive from Sun City Grand to Mormon Lake is about 2 hours.  (Email me if you need directions - I know a short-cut from Sun City Grand or Surprise AZ) To my thinking, Mormon Lake is one of the most beautiful recreation spots in Arizona, an ideal place to enjoy the long weekend.   

When at Mormon Lake, check out the Mormon Lake Lodge.  The meals are excellent and serving portions are large.  The lodge will have entertainment on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  The local band is superb for two-stepping.  

This weekend starts the official Mormon Lake rodeo roping season.  The cowboys will be doing their stuff on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.  Be sure to arrive early since the roping arena fills quickly.  Thinking about camping, get there early for a space.

Some of the largest pike I've seen has come out of Lake Mary.  Upper and lower Lake Mary is full of water! Upper Lake Mary has more water in it today than I've ever seen it in the past 6 years.  I asked a couple of people who were fishing off the bank what type of bait was being used.  I was told that the bait of choice is waterdogs.  But don't forget to get your fishing license.

Even Mormon Lake was full of water today.  Watch the bald eagles from the Mormon Lake lookout off of Lake Mary road.

Need more to do?  Go to the bingo game at the firehouse that starts at 7pm on Saturday night.  Have a beer and walk back to your lodging under the full moon.  Yes, the full moon.  Your life will be enriched watching the full moon coming in on Mormon Lake.  Sometimes it's nice just to park in the meadow and watch the herds of elk or deer graze. 

Memorial Day is a day of picnics, parades, flags and remembrance to all of those who have fought to keep us free.  Take time this weekend to remember our special day for our country's special Heroes.  Hope you take some time to rest and relax in cool Northern Arizona this weekend.