Forced to the Far Side

Trail behind Tortugas Mountain

When Becca and I neared the Sunset side of Tortugas Mountain this morning it was evident that the annual Tortugas Pueblo pilgrimage to the top of the mountain was already underway.  The parking lot was filled with cars, and other vehicles lined the entrance road as well as part of Dripping Springs Road.  We drove around the mountain to the Monte Vista area where only two SUVs occupied the lot.  The Beckster and I did a moderately long hike behind the mountain, and she did very well--obviously into the extended outing.  Although it felt chilly to me for most of the way Becca reveled in the cooler temps.  If she did have any complaints she didn't articulate any of them.  We did see one other outdoor enthusiast; perhaps I should say "partial" outdoor enthusiast because he had his earbuds plugged in and was busy listening to tunes on his phone.

The distant Organs

Still a long way to the Organ Mountains

Becca enjoying our trek

You can say that again

Scouting the territory

Trail around the mountain

12/11/18 (still blooming)

Trail around the mountain (color)

High desert

Anybody else out here?

Rolling desert and the Organs

Leading the way

Weather conditions all day so far

Organs

Organ Mountains on this kind of day