SE AZ Hiking, Birding, and Quietude

QUIETUDE! Wonderful accommodations, and concerned and gracious hosts. Barbara was concerned about our ability to navigate the last 3 miles of dirt road in the dark, so she called us to be sure we were not lost. The cabin is stocked with enough reading material to last a year. Fresh cookies, too.

Barbara and David exceeded all expectations for graciousness, wit, and enlightenment. Their little piece of heaven on earth was amazing when Cochise made it his home. Our hosts have honored him by living simply, constructing buildings with locally sourced materials, and sharing it with others. Beware though, you will not want to leave! We had not visited this little corner of Arizona and felt obliged to go and see it......but we would have liked to have spent more time just being there.

My husband and I stayed at the Bear Cave while visiting nearby family. We loved the rustic charm of the little cottage, which was nice and cozy on the cold winter nights that we were there. Our favorite thing to do each night was to walk out on the porch after dark and gaze up at the radiant stars overhead. (Since we are city people, we don't often get a chance to see a sky filled with stars from one horizon to the other.) Staying at the Bear Cave is a wonderful way to enjoy the comforts of a warm, cozy bed while staying close to nature.

Tranquility & a reverence for nature are seeped in every crevice of this place built by caring hands. Peace, simplicity and nourishment available here.

My husband and I have stayed with Barbara and David on their property several times. Their warm hospitality, the beauty of the land and their innate knowledge of the area add so much to the experience. The Bear Cave, as it's affectionately called, is cozy and comfortable for a time of rest and reflection. Of course, because their property is situated close to great hiking trails, a day can be filled with exploration (Barbara can tell you which trails are the best), followed by an evening on the porch, listening to night noises. It's lovely. Surrounded by organic gardens and fruit trees, Barbara is an expert in desert vegetation and brings an understanding of growing food that is incredible. David adds knowledge of sustainable building, historical and cultural perspectives, and a keen sense of humor that adds so much to your visit. It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend staying at the Bear Cave, whether it's for a weekend get away or a week-long retreat. You will not be disappointed.

If you're looking for the most beautiful, peaceful and private of getaways, consider the Bear Cave at The Larson's in Cochise, AZ. Perched at the very top of DreamCatcher Way and abutting the national forest lands of the rugged Cochise Stronghold, this is a nature lover's dream! From their back door, well marked trails lead into spectacular scenery that you'll have all to yourself. World class hiking and rock climbing are close by in the canyons of The Stronghold. The area is also great for cyclists with 360 degree vistas and little to no traffic. Sightseeing in nearby wild west towns and enjoying wine tastings at local vineyards are also fun options. Barbara and David Larson are kind and knowledgeable hosts and can help you with any adventure you care to take in this picturesque and historic part of the high desert.

My husband and I love staying at the Bear Cave! No matter the time of year, it's a welcome getaway from the busyness of city life. We enjoy the peace and quiet, the big sky and beautiful mountains, hiking in the foothills of the Dragoon mountains, being entertained by the abundant wildlife and, most of all, visiting with the Larsons! Barbara and Dave are wonderful hosts, always happy to share their knowledge and the adventures they have living their very special and enviable lifestyle. Another favorite of mine during our visits is enjoying the awesome sight of so many stars at night, even the Milky Way, an experience we don't have living in Phoenix. Always when we leave, we're looking forward to the next time we can return to the Bear Cave!

Barbara is the perfect host for this desert experience. She has that special knack of knowing when to leave you alone and when to engage you. Her knowledge of the geography, flora and fauna of the area is astounding and it is very apparent that she loves this beautiful tract of land. Ecologically aware, Barbara has found means of providing a wonderful stay at the Bear Cave, without sacrificing the native environment. I had a variety of wonderful experiences when I stayed there, such as the morning I was sitting on the porch watching the sunrise, and found myself surrounded by at least two species of quail putting on a pageant just for me. Throughout my whole experience, Barbara dependably but quietly directed me to those things which would be most enjoyable for me. I will surley visit Barbara and David again whenever I can.