Osha Redux

New Mexico Locust (Robinia neomexicana)

Because it was going to be a hot morning in the High Rolls/Mountain Park area Dr. K, Becca and I decided to do the Osha Trail again; and we got a really early start, hitting the trailhead by 8 a.m.  Surprisingly two groups of people were just finishing their hike.  We encountered a few other trekkers along the way, but it wasn't really crowded.  It felt warmer during our trek than it had a few days ago, though much preferable to hiking below at 7,000 feet.  As we drove back down the mountain to our place a steady stream of vehicles were headed up toward Cloudcroft, many people intent on celebrating Father's Day in the high country.

Huge dead tree

Leveling off after a steep climb

About a half mile in

First bench

Overhead look

I think it's Hairy Evening Primrose (Oenothera villosa)

Village of Cloudcroft, New Mexico (elevation 8,668 feet)

Curving into the shady side of the mountain

Forest workers cross hatch tree stumps to promote decomposition

Who's on the trail ahead?

It's Becca way ahead of the pack

One happy dog in the forest

Many dead Aspens

Hugging the side of the mountain

Getting into the green grass

This section climbs toward several meadows

Opening soon in a forest near you

American Vetch?

Woods' Rose (Rosa woodsii)

You are here

High mountain meadow

Just going to call in a sunflower

Sunflower

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Same hummer

Same hummer