Hot Spell

Further west of Tortugas at start

We're slated to be in the high 80s today, but the heat wave is supposed to come to an end this evening when a cold front blows through our area.  Our high is predicted to be in the low 70s tomorrow.  Let's see if that forecast is accurate.  There were quite a few people at the west side of Tortugas Mountain this morning, and small orange flags planted alongside the trail seemed to indicate some kind of planned event.  Right at the start Becca and I saw people running and speed-walking along the designated path.  That's why we chose another route, using part of Geothermal Drive to strike straight into the outback where we encountered no other outdoor enthusiasts.  On the way in I was surprised to discover a Soaptree Yucca blossoming; this particular individual had flowered twice before during this prolonged growing season.

Ms. Happy Hiker

Looking south

Through an Ocotillo gate

Bishop Cap

Long-distance view of Tortugas and the Organs

The tallest Soaptree Yucca around

Dayflowers still in bloom

Cloud-dappled sky

Closer look at that sky

Gap between the Organ Mts. (left) and the Franklin Mts.

Closing in on the mountain

Doña Ana Mountains

Closer look at the Doña Anas

Soaptree Yucca stalk past prime

Still happy

More cloudy to the south

Some Ocotillos still have a lot of green leaves

Closer to Tortugas Mountain

The result of our recent hot spell

This Soaptree Yucca has bloomed three times this season

I'm sure the insects are pleased to have the flowers

Closeup of the Soaptree Yucca blossoms