Category: Phoenix to Panama by Bicycle

Welcome to the heart of BLeaves Farms’ adventure chronicles! Here, dive into the thrilling tale of our founder’s audacious quest—a bicycle journey spanning from the McDowell Mountains of Arizona in Autumn to the iconic Panama Canal in Spring. Accompanied by a fearless friend, this expedition wasn’t just about pedaling through diverse landscapes; it was a saga of overcoming challenges, forging unforgettable memories, and embracing the wild freedom of the open road. With each twist and turn, from blazing deserts to lush rainforests, our blog brings you closer to the highs, the lows, and the awe-inspiring moments of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Join us as we relive every exhilarating mile, and get inspired to chase your own dreams and adventures!

Brit at La Tumbleweed Bar with new friends

Epic Firehouse Adventure: Biking to Tucson’s Fire Station Paradise from Picacho Peak State Park

Imagine this: nestled in a mansion-turned-firehouse in the scenic northwest foothills of Tucson, Arizona. The breathtaking view of the valley below, with twinkling city lights, a golden moon, and a sky full of stars, makes you forget the hardships of the day. After an exhausting ride, Jonathan and I are indulging in a sumptuous dinner of buttery mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a trio of decadent ice creams topped with chocolate cake. Firefighters, not just heroes but also gourmet chefs, know how to make you feel at home.

Brit at Picacho Peak

Epic Desert Adventure: Cycling To and Through Picacho Peak

We’re huddled in a cozy tent at Picacho Peak State Park, just 40 miles north of Tucson. The rugged desert mountains frame our view, while city lights twinkle in the distance. After a grueling day of cycling, we’ve just devoured our well-earned feast of cookie dough and peanut butter METRX Big 100 bars. The park’s facilities are top-notch, offering flush toilets and warm, private showers. Despite the cool 50-degree weather and a minor cactus mishap, with me stepping on a cactus and being impaled by hundreds of thorns, the magic of this place is undeniable.

Brit and Jon at start

Embarking on a Heroic Journey: Our Bike Ride from Phoenix to Panama

Get ready to dive into a thrilling new blog series here at BLeaves Farms! Join us as we recount the awe-inspiring journey of two college friends who set out on an epic quest, pedaling from the vibrant streets of Phoenix all the way to the iconic Panama Canal. Our adventure, undertaken in 2008 to honor public safety heroes, was filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking landscapes, and the kind of camaraderie that turns ordinary trips into legendary tales. Through our stories, photos, and videos, we hope to ignite the spark of adventure within you and show that with vision, planning, and a bit of daring, anything is possible. So, gear up and get ready to be inspired to chase your own dreams and embark on your own incredible journeys!