Rainy, Windy and Chilly

Claret Cup Hedgehog Cactus buds

We had to postpone our hike this morning because it was raining pretty steadily.  Usually we're out of the house by 7:20 or 7:30 at the latest, but it was well after 9:00 when we finally left for Tortugas Mountain.  It continued to rain while we drove over, but, fortunately, we didn't get wet during our outing.  There were two cars in the Sunset Area parking when we got there, but we saw nobody out and about.  Although we didn't get rained on we did get blown around a bit by a cold, gusty wind.  Both Becca and I were glad to get back to the car after a 90-minute excursion.

Headed for the upper foothills

In the upper foothills

Starting a descent into the lower desert

Weather stayed this way during the entire hike

Creosote, Ocotillos and yucca

West of Tortugas looking north

View to the west

What brushed against this Creosote Bush?

About to begin the ascent to the high foothills

Almost done with our morning trek