IPA Day

Early start on the Tortoise's west side

A long hike on desert trails in perfect late November weather, no other hikers in the outback, a happy hiker dog who delights in lengthy treks through this arid land.  What could be better?  Well, doing all that and still being able to sit down this evening, after a productive afternoon of writing, to sip a few Dale's Pale Ales while watching an episode or two of "Gavin and Stacey."  That's what.

Instead of heading around the mountain we came this way

Heading north, but looking south

Looking back at the way we just came

The mountain called "Tortugas" (Tortoise)

An idiot decided to make a new road through the desert

Becca's about to head back to the mountain . . .

when she spots a bug

Rolling along the trail now

Ladderback Woodpecker in a forest of Ocotillos

Almost back to the Sunset Parking area