Early Spring?

Torrey Yucca west of the trailhead

Although the windchill was 19 F this morning Becca and I never felt cold.  First, it wasn't windy at the mountain; and, second, the sun was shining brightly.  To add to the illusion of early spring were the flowers of the Velvety Nerisyrenia, which were in bloom in the foothills.  This member of the mustard family prefers limestone areas of the high desert, and we crossed through a section of Tortugas's western flank which completely fits the bill.  Amazing to see flowers in bloom on the last day of February.

High foothills trail

Velvety Nerisyrenia (most common species of mustard locally)

Man jogging with his Border Collie

Atop the Yucca a very noisy Mockingbird

Becca watches two mountain bikers headed into the foothills

Clump of Pincushion Cactus