Sunny, but Surprisingly Cold

Very cold start

Although it was warmer this morning (30F rather than 21F and 28F) than on previous days, a wickedly cold wind made it nearly brutal out in the desert during our trek.  Usually I can remove my ear protectors and gloves by the midpoint of our hike, but I was still wearing this gear when we got back to the car at the trailhead.  Becca and I just returned from an early-afternoon drive, and even though the temperature is supposed to be 45F now, the bitter wind is still blowing, making it feel nearly frigid out there.  By the way, we spotted no Javelinas on our hike even though we found numerous tracks.

Arroyo west of Tortugas Mountain

How tall can Torrey Yuccas grow?

Barrel Cactus, Soaptree Yucca and Prickly Pear Cactus

Looking at them from the other side

Soaptree Yucca and clones

Heading further west of the mountain

Vast expanse of Chihuahuan Desert

Large Ocotillo (aka "buggy whip")

The hunting/herding stare

Looking for critters

Fresh Javelina tracks

Picking up a scent

Way west of the mountains

Broad arroyo

You can see that the desert floor isn't flat

Heading back