Brutally Cold Wind

The way Zorro goes up the mountain

Local meteorologists said nothing about the possibility of frigid wind in the desert today, so I learned the hard way.  Even though I was dressed appropriately, I wasn't prepared for the steady, brutally cold wind.  I never removed my gloves--not even to take photos--and at one point on my way back in I donned a headband ear-warmer, retracted my gloved hands into my anorak sleeves and hiked at a brisk pace to my Jeep parked at the trailhead.  I gave Becca another day off, and I was glad I had; I don't think the cold temperature would have been good for the muscles of her right leg.

Distinct lack of sun this morning

Gap between Organ Mountains (NM) and Franklin Mountains (TX)

In the background you can see the trail over the flank

This image seems to give testament to how cold it is out there

Some snow still left on the Organs

West of Tortugas

Looking west

Soaptree Yucca (left) and Torrey Yucca

Blue sky to the west

Change of perspective

Yucca, Tortugas and the Organs

I've circled completely around these yuccas

Another stay-at-home day for Becca