Easter 2014

Moon over Tortugas

Where's the dark side?

Looping around the Tortoise

Usually on Easter morning there are people at the ramadas on both sides of the mountain; but when we got to the Monte Vista area there were only three vehicles in the parking lot.  We left our car in the usual spot--about 100 yards away from the ramada--and hiked around Tortugas Mountain, fully expecting a full parking lot upon our return.  We were surprised to find no vehicles in the lot, and no celebrants beneath the ramada.  I believe that's a first for us; i.e. finding no people celebrating the Easter holiday near what many regard as a holy mountain.

The happiest hiker

The Organ Mountains--so-named by the Spaniards after "pipe organs"

Ocotillo blossom

Tortugas's flank and the Organ Mountains

Respite in the meager shade of a yucca