Along the Sierra Norte Trail

Just getting started on the Sierra Norte

Dr. K, Becca and I got an early start on the Sierra Norte Trail this morning, hiking alongside the Organ Mountains northward.  We spent an hour on the outbound leg, guaranteeing an hour for the return trip.  We saw nobody on the way out, but ran into five people coming back:  two separate joggers, and three guys hiking together.  The first jogger commented on Becca being in the "down" position, and I felt pretty good about that.  I've worked hard over the years to get her to obey commands, and she's been a great student (most of the time).

Soledad Rocks

Moon on the mount

Soledad Rocks with the Organ Mountains behind

Looking west toward the Tortoise

Heading down country

Upthrust

Barrel Cactus amidst the grass

Across the high desert to the Organ Mountains

Chihuahuan Desert grassland

Tortugas (Tortoise) Mountain

Two very large homes in the lower desert

Barrel Cactus with fruit

Barrel Cactus clones with Yuccas growing behind

A little bushwhacking for Becca and Dr. K

Break time

Yeah, I'm comfortable here

A very deep barranca