Lunedi Lunacy

Rocky cactus garden

It was rather cold when Becca and I began hiking around Tortugas Mountain this morning; since we got an early start we were in shadow for quite a while before breaking into the sun.  Also, there was a steady breeze that strengthened into a wind during our trek, a wind that didn't diminish in the least.  We stayed on the beaten track for about two-thirds of our journey, but we did bushwhack through the desert flora for the rest.  It's always a lot of fun exploring in this arid land.

Pausing in the high foothills

Shadow and light on the Tortoise

Three amigos

Far west of Tortugas (Tortoise) Mountain

Area of tall yuccas

We've seen Javelina here before

You can see why Native Americans called this mountain the "Tortoise"

Soaptree Yucca, Barrel Cactus and Torrey Yucca

Vast expanse of Chihuahuan Desert west of the mountains

Closeup of Tortugas's flank and the rugged Organ Mountains

I've seen Javelinas eat Prickly Pear pads like humans munch toast

The road around the mountain

Distant dog (center)