Taking Advantage

In the high foothills

Generally, during summer in the Chihuahuan Desert, there are a few days when you can take advantage of a cloud-covered sky to pursue a long hike.  That's what Becca and I did this morning, starting from the Sunset Parking area on Tortugas's west side and looping about 2/3 of the way around the mountain.  The air was fragrant with a citrus smell from the thousands of Chinchweed flowers that have been blooming after the summer rains.

Chinchweed (aka Many-Bristle Cinchweed)

Trail around Tortugas

Heavy cloud cover

The Organ Mountains

After summer rains Chinchweed carpets the desert floor

The long view