Nice, Long Hike

Early start west of Tortugas

When Dr. K, Becca and I got out to the Sunset Area west of Tortugas Mountain early this morning the parking lot was already filled with vehicles.  Everybody, it seemed, wanted to take advantage of the beautiful weather predicted for today.  We're supposed to reach 71F (21.6C).  And, indeed, conditions were wonderful for the extra-long trek that the three of us did west of the mountain.  We did run into quite a few people, though, who were enjoying our little section of the northern Chihuahuan Desert.

Why does my neck hurt?

Smudge cloud above Tortugas

In an arroyo west of the mountain

Nevermore

Brief respite in the shade

Where in the world is Becca Sandiego?

Flank of Tortugas and the Organ Mountains

Another break in an arroyo

Yucca and mountains

Where bushwhacking gets you

Rambling around in the western hills

Jogger and mountain bikers

Part of Las Cruces, New Mexico

Just starting up the mountain

Headless bird cloud over the saddle