From Monte Vista

Heading behind Tortugas Mountain

Dr. K, Becca and I headed out from the east side of Tortugas (Tortoise) Mountain this morning, looped around its south side, then hiked to the far west on the outer loop road.  We saw all kinds of critters in the outback:  joggers, bikers, Mule Deer and a Gopher Snake.  All during the hike we battled a powerful, unpleasant wind, which you can witness for yourself by watching the brief video.  Despite the wind we had a rollicking good time.

High mountain scout

Dr. K holds her hat against the wind

Joggers running clockwise around the mountain

Three Mule Deer making their way through rugged desert

Mule Deer silhouetted against the Organ Mountains

Hello to a 2 1/2-foot Gopher Snake

I've got a kink in my neck

First thing to look for:  tapered tail

Keeping a wary eye on us

Just how windy it was