Morning in the Desert

This and the next: never been able to ID this plant

Becca and I got out early in order to beat the heat, but the heat beat us instead.  Although the ambient air temperature was only in the high 60s the sun was merciless and there wasn't a hint of breeze.  Therefore we decided to cut the hike short, opting to spend only an hour trekking on the west side of Tortugas Mountain.  There weren't many other outdoor enthusiasts about, though I can't say for certain it had to do with the heat.  We're headed for another hot day, supposed to hit 96F.  Normal temperatures for September are the mid- to upper-80s, with lows in the high 50s.  Our lows have been consistently in the high 60s to mid 70s of late.  What gives?

It has leaves like some sages

Happy hiker, but hot dog

Plumed Crinklemat in foreground

Plume Crinklemat, Ocotillos, flank of Tortugas Mountain & the Organs Mts.

Vista from the high foothills

Another from the high foothills

Morning sun streaming over Tortugas Mountain

It's a long walk

Have to idea what this plant is

Very tiny flower

Large Prickly Pear pads

This is the plant with tiny flowers growing in a boulder

A look up the rugged east side of Tortugas Mountain