Good End to the Week

Hiking in the morning shadows

Becca and I enjoyed a much cooler morning on our trek around the west side of Tortugas Mountain.  We were able to hike much of the way in shadow because we got a half-hour earlier start on the hike.  We saw a few outdoor enthusiasts on and about the mountain, but not many.  Even though it was cooler I cut the exploration a bit shorter than yesterday's just to make sure we weren't overdoing it, but Becca definitely had more energy because of the lower temperatures.  We've got some 70s on the near horizon, so we may soon be able to extend our treks even further. 

In the shadow of Tortugas

Breaking into sunlight in the high foothills

Franklin Mountains on the horizon

Enjoying an early morning trek in the high foothills

Right or left, you can't go wrong

The way to the mountain road

Small bouquet

One of the higher spots

Deep arroyo on the mountain's west side

Blackfoot Daisies

Blackfoot Daisies

Cloudless Sulphur (?) on Vinca

Closeup of that proboscis