Mystery tree survives wildfires

A tree north of the Valley near Cordes Junction, Arizona, is getting renewed attention this week after surviving another of the state's wildfires. “It’s a special tree,” said Arizona Department of Transportation worker Randy Skinner. After 16 years on the job, Skinner knows the tree well. “I think the tree gives people hope. They see it decorated every year and enjoy it.”

The tree sits close to the Badger Springs exit past Sunset Point; a 20-foot-high, bushy juniper tree that is different than most. Every year it’s decorated for Christmas and Independence Day. Right now, it’s covered with several American flags and yellow ribbons. It also has its own water system set up underneath, with several large drums and a pipe to feed it water.

That’s where the tree gets its name - the mystery tree. A mystery person or people decorate it every year, but it’s also a mystery because it manages to have survived several wildfires over the years. “It’s survived wildfire after wildfire” says ADOT engineer Greg Gentsch. “We’re just happy it’s still here." Just last week, another wildfire sparked about 200 yards to the south of the tree. It shut down the highway and quickly crept toward the tree.

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When it was over, everything around it burned but the tree survived again without a scratch on it. Maybe it’s the rock formations around the tree, a strange wind current or someone, or something, watching out for it. “It’s a mystery,” said Skinner. “But I hope it stays for a long time to come.”