Kiddmen57
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One of my favorite things about getting out into the back country is finding abandoned places and signs of the past. I am fortunate that Arizona and the southwest have a rich history of mining and with it a wealth of ruins waiting to be explored. While many sites may be just a few stones still piled up, or a crumbling single adobe wall, there are many sites off the beaten path that retain many elements of their glory days. Ruby, Az happens to be one of the latter sites. Read up on the history HERE. A group of us decided to make a day trip to Ruby over the weekend. We were quite surprised at what we found, and will definitely be going back.
Ruby is approximately two hours from Tucson. Heading down I-19 you exit to Arivaca. Once in Arivaca (also a neat place to stop) you turn onto Ruby road. The road seems to have been designed by someone that was either blind, or slightly inebriated. Had it not been for the rough numerous patches covering the entire road surface, it would have made for a fun curvy drive. After some time, the patchwork asphalt turns to a much smoother gravel road. Soon the gravel turns to rocks and small creek crossings, though, nothing a passenger car couldn't handle. Eventually you come to the turn off for Ruby. One thing I have not mentioned up to this point is that Ruby is under the care of a group working to preserve and restore the site. Once you arrive you need to check in with the care taker, sign a liability form, and pay your $12/ adult fee. This is a small price to pay for such an extensive site in such good condition.
This truck officially greets you as you enter the town
Ruby has a couple dozen buildings left standing, and a few other surprises in store for anyone who visits. Most of the buildings are 100% open to be explored. A few are closed and a few more are undergoing restoration.
Outdoor shower and toilet
Parking near the bunkhouses
Site where the mill once stood
The Ruby Skywalk – go on enjoy the view
Oatmeal and oil
This was a redneck engineer's idear of a windmill
Ruby is approximately two hours from Tucson. Heading down I-19 you exit to Arivaca. Once in Arivaca (also a neat place to stop) you turn onto Ruby road. The road seems to have been designed by someone that was either blind, or slightly inebriated. Had it not been for the rough numerous patches covering the entire road surface, it would have made for a fun curvy drive. After some time, the patchwork asphalt turns to a much smoother gravel road. Soon the gravel turns to rocks and small creek crossings, though, nothing a passenger car couldn't handle. Eventually you come to the turn off for Ruby. One thing I have not mentioned up to this point is that Ruby is under the care of a group working to preserve and restore the site. Once you arrive you need to check in with the care taker, sign a liability form, and pay your $12/ adult fee. This is a small price to pay for such an extensive site in such good condition.
This truck officially greets you as you enter the town
Ruby has a couple dozen buildings left standing, and a few other surprises in store for anyone who visits. Most of the buildings are 100% open to be explored. A few are closed and a few more are undergoing restoration.
Outdoor shower and toilet
Parking near the bunkhouses
Site where the mill once stood
The Ruby Skywalk – go on enjoy the view
Oatmeal and oil
This was a redneck engineer's idear of a windmill