A Lengthy Trek

Going . . .

Dr. K and I got a very early start on a long trek in Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument this morning, hiking the Sierra Vista Trail Norte.  Along the way we ran into several hikers with dogs, which, of course, got us to talking about Becca and whether or not we would want to get another canine friend in the near future.  Besides missing Becca fiercely, we both love dogs.

We trekked way past Black Mountain and even followed the loop trail that leads toward the Organ Mountains for a bit.  It was a beautiful, cool Sunday morning, the sky made extra dynamic by the clouds hanging about.  At times it even seemed as if we might get rained on, but we never did.

By the time we got back to our Jeep in the Sierra Vista Trail parking lot both Dr. K and I felt certain we'd put quite a few miles on our Keen boots while burning off calories through the best form of exercise for us:  hiking.

. . . and coming in a Sacred Datura flower

This and the next 3:  Soledad Rocks and the Organ Mountains

This and the rest of the uncaptioned:  views along the Sierra Vista Trail Norte

Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus

Chinaberry tree

How tall is this Sotol?

I'm 5' 11", and I'm standing right beside the Sotol

Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus

Village of Talavera and Tortugas Mountain from the Organs

This and the next:  Soledad Canyon Road