This gorgeous goat may greet you at Triangle L Ranch
Take a trek less than 50 miles yet a world away to Triangle L Ranch in Oracle.
Oracle happens to resemble Tucumcari, N.M., so it’s something you definitely don’t want to miss.
I found a groovy write-up in our archives about the ranch and added a few notes of my own.
Mark your calendars for June 13 when the Carnivaleros will be in concert at the ranch with a CD release party. Cost is $10.
Other stuff is free.
Triangle L Ranch
Oracle’s Triangle L Ranch Bed and Breakfast, 2805 N. Triangle L Ranch Road, features art, goats and surprises.
With buildings dating from the 1880s, the 50-plus acre Triangle L is at an elevation of 4,500 feet in the high foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Besides being a bed and breakfast and a ranch, it hosts weddings, retreats, reunions and workshops.
William Ladd, a cattle and sheep rancher, homesteaded Triangle L Ranch in the 1890s and its Web site claims Wild West buffalo hunter and showman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody was a regular visitor. It also claims to be southern Arizona’s first guest ranch.
Artist and gallery owner Sharon Holnback has owned the ranch since 2001 and hopes to make the property a haven for artists.
Ryn note: The gift shop is already fully stocked with fine, kitschy and wacky art from regional artists.
Where to eat
Try Nonna Maria’s Pizza, 2161 N. Rockcliff Blvd. (520-896-3522, http://nonnamarias.com), owned by Frank and Angelina Palazzolo. He’s the chef and also an artist, going by the name Papuni.
The menu has strong influences from traditional Sicilian family recipes and includes vegetarian and vegan options. It does not have a formal kids’ menu but the staff will accommodate.
Kid-friendly?
Ryn note: Visiting the pygmy goats are a must for both children and adults.
Farmers market
Check out The Station, 1395 W. American Ave. (896-9005), a small market owned by Megan Hartman. Besides local produce it sells coffee and espresso beverages and, 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays hosts a farmers market. The store is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends.
The drive
Head north on Oracle Road, which turns into State Route 77. Past the turnoff for Oracle (between mile markers 100 and 101), take the next left onto Rockcliff Boulevard, then the first right onto Oracle Ranch Road. Continue down it about 1/4 mile and go left on Triangle L Ranch Road. Follow it to its end. The main house is on the left.
To learn more
623-6732, www.trianglelranch.com