Summerhaven, AZ

DISQUALIFIED.

When I climbed the 25-mile ascent to Summerhaven, the temperature was 20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the base at Tucson. Summer temperature differentials must be even greater between the 2,400 ft. elevation of Tucson and the 8,000 ft. height of Summerhaven. Other than the panoramic views to be enjoyed along this roadway, the tedious 50-mile road trip is not worth the journey to this small town. The only commercial establishments at the top are a general store and a pizza restaurant. Many of the hills around Summerhaven are denuded of trees due to a severe 2003 forest fire. It is amazing to me that after this fire, the replacement homes are of all-wood construction.