From Monte Vista

Cactus out of rock

Dr. K, Becca and I went for a hike on the east side of Tortugas Mountain today, starting out of the Monte Vista parking area.  It was a gloomy morning, and would have been quite cold if the wind had been blowing.  We didn't see any other hearty outdoorspersons until we were almost back to the starting point.  Then we saw a guy jogging and another guy riding a mountain bike.  We had a pleasant trek out into the desert east of the mountain, but were happy to get to the car so we could crank up the heater.

Gloomy start

Southern flank of Tortugas Mountain

Becca in front of Creosote Bushes

The long view to the Organ Mountains

Four sisters (will they all make it?)

Road over the dales

East side of Tortugas

Looking southwest past Tortugas

Closing in on the Organ Mountains