Hiking Near the Vital Organs

Getting started in OMDPNM

Dr. K, the Heelers and I did a long hike on the trail that departs from the westernmost entrance sign for Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.  We followed the single-track eastward until it intersected with the Sierra Vista Trail, and then we turned around.

We encountered a few hikers and mountain bikers out there this morning, but nowhere near the number we've bumped into in weeks past; probably fewer people were out there because today is Mother's Day.

It was overcast during the entire trek, so none of us felt overly warm.  We were spat upon a few times, but it never even really sprinkled.  All in all a very good outing today.

Virga

Trail east toward the Organ Mountains

Overcast all morning

Banana Yuccas at the side of the trail

Three Barrel Cacti

Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly Pear with a view

This and the next:  male Gambel's Quail

Cloud cover over the Organs

This and the next:  homes in the mountains

Ocotillos and the Organ Mountains

The long view

More Ocotillos and the Organs

Still pretty green

Organ Mountains

Heading back

Bee heading for Ocotillo flower

Triple-header

Best view of the day

Fernleaf Acacia

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