Best Place To Grok A Grackle

Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve

STAFF PICK: In parts of India, people suffering from mental strain are tied to streamside trees. In time the sound of flowing water calms them. We don't have much such water in southern Arizona, but one place you can find it is Patagonia Creek, a few miles to the north and east of Nogales. The Nature Conservancy preserve there is a haven for all kinds of spectacular birds--macaws, tanagers, and hummingbirds being just a few--and a perfect spot to soothe your poor, bewildered mind.