Deep in Oak Creek Canyon, a trail meanders among the crumbling remains of some stone buildings. Mostly forgotten and partially consumed by vegetation, these former buildings were the home to some unusual occupants and visitors. In the 1870s, before there was even a road through the canyon, Jesse Jefferson “Bear” Howard constructed the first cabin on the site. Howard was a hunter who moved to the area to settle a score with the local wildlife. His friend was mauled to death by a bear in the canyon and Howard vowed…
