Out of Monte Vista

Clouds snagged by the Organ Mountains

Becca and I conducted a fly experiment this morning, starting our hike on the east side of Tortugas Mountain instead of the west to see if there are fewer flies over there; and you know what?--there were.  But we can't say for certain it has to do only with the side of the mountain because there were other variables involved.  Last night a storm system blew through, depositing rain and lowering the temperature.  Also, it was slightly windy on the east and southeast side of Tortugas; so the wind might have kept the flies at bay.  More research is necessary.

Back behind the mountain

Still up in the foothills

Yuccas in bloom on the southwest side of Tortugas

Tortugas Mountain (left) and the Organ Mountains

A road arcs through the desert

Claret Cup Cactus flowers

Spanish Dagger in bloom