Casual tourists often pull off the Catalina Highway at Windy Point for a quick look at the wow-inspiring view and maybe a short walk.
Others take an extended hike among rock formations at the site - 6,600 feet high in the mountains northeast of Tucson.
Rock climbers test their upward mobility on the area's vertical cliffs.
And then there's Scott Turpin.
Turpin recently rigged a line between two high cliffs with a gaping void below. Then he walked across the line from one side to the other. And back again.
WINDY AND WONDROUS
Frequent gusty winds, or at least stiff breezes, seem to justify the name of Windy Point, near milepost 14 on the Catalina Highway.
Visitors undaunted by the threat of mussed hair can get grand views of cliffs, canyons and distant mountain ranges in even a brief stop at the overlook.
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WHERE TO WANDER
A broad expanse of fairly flat, rocky terrain - generally west of a parking area - invites an easygoing ramble.
Pick up an unmaintained trail near the restrooms and then choose your own path over the rocks.
It's critically important to stay well back from the edge of drop-offs and watch your footing.
Large rock outcrops about a quarter-mile from the parking area foretell steeper terrain beyond. This makes a good turnaround point for casual walkers.
Hikers experienced in rugged terrain might continue down a steep, rough, unmaintained "climbers' trail" to the base of popular rock-climbing routes.
Experienced climbers head to this area to test their skills on formations such as North Fin and Beaver Wall.
WALKING THE LINE
Turpin described his jaunt across a line strung between two cliffs in the North Fin area as "scary" but also "a real experience."
Most of us will be perfectly happy to just take his word for it.
GET TO THE POINT
Take Tanque Verde Road to the Catalina Highway and follow the highway ($5 per vehicle fee) to Windy Point near milepost 14.
Contact reporter Doug Kreutz at dkreutz@azstarnet.com or at 573-4192.

