Getting Toasty

Early start

Becca and I got a really early start this morning primarily because the desert is supposed to get hot and very windy today.  We're headed for 94 Fahrenheit and gusts up to 50 mph.  That kind of wind velocity usually translates into blowing dust and sand.  We were very fortunate on our trek; the wind hadn't picked up yet and the sun was kept at bay by a light high cloud cover for most of the hike.  Because of the conditions we trekked a little further than we did yesterday.  Noticed on the way back to the car that workers had blocked off the parking lot and were doing some kind of construction with heavy equipment.  I'd love it if they'd pave the lot and the road leading to it.

Take this trail to the high desert

What you'll see as you crest the high foothills trail

A tall Parry's Agave

Bumblebee photobomb

Flank of Tortugas and the Organs

Soaptree Yucca and Bishop Cap on the horizon (center)

The long road west

Break time!

Further along the road

White-winged Dove on a leafed-out Ocotillo branch

Yuccas still blooming everywhere

Tortugas and the Organs

La prima colazione (breakfast)

Chihuahuan Desert sky

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Same flycatcher, different profile