Cholla Cactus at sunrise.
In the early stages of the climb up Mount Ryan, altitude of 5,500 feet.
The idea is to stay in the desert for a few days before heading into the Sierra Nevadas and other Western parts of the United States—our gateway, if you will. Whatever you might think of 'change' and its effect on the country, nature for the most part, is beyond and above the reach of the political class. With that little rant over, we visited Joshua Tree National Park. While there was a hint that we should rest before undertaking some serious hiking, it was always a fictitious thought. Lying around the pool and watching bathing beauties was never on the cards. Firstly, after three minutes we become horribly bored and then upset our editor. Secondly, we have no desire to stare at women. For the record, one of the above two statements might not be true. Think the former.
The desert is harsh but also beautiful. Early morning in Joshua Tree Park.
The views proved to be stunning aided by the light.
Taking it in during a period when the weather was superb. We were fortunate.
We were reading about hikes in the park and learned that three are officially closed because of heavy rains in 2013. After looking around today, it’s surprising that it ever rains in the region. We read a comment from one visitor who said that it was a disappointment for him, that is, his day in the park. Why? ‘Well’, he explained, ‘I hardly came across any snakes or tarantulas.’ The more we experience life, we realize it takes all types and we mean that in a positive manner.
Love the photograph...actually, love them all.
A well maintained but fairly steep trail as we head over the mountain ahead.
Into the abyss, 'the longest yard' or two.
The alarm woke us at 5:15am and we set off on a rather long drive. As the sun was not shining, the editor thought she might need a sweater. Sometimes she confuses warm clothing with a flashlight. Funnily enough, the weather was outstanding. The higher we rose, the cooler it became. Unfortunately, the mixed blessing of cooler weather affected the sunrise—heavy clouds acted as real spoilers. As much as we love clouds, they have to be low enough so they don’t block the sun when we are on a mountain. Surely, that’s a reasonable request.
More color in the desert.
A view from Cholla Cactus Gardens into the mountains.
Sunlight filters through the cloud, the effect is...
After spending some time at the Cholla Cactus Gardens, we agree with the warning that the prickly pines are not dormant—they seem to jump at one and inflict damage. After removing a few dozen prickly spines from various parts of the body, we drove to the trailhead. Although the elevation gain was only 1,100 feet, it was an enjoyable hike including spectacular views of the desert basin. We hope the photographs provide support to the statement.
We completed the activities by doing some boulder hopping. We thought of Annette Olson when we saw rock climbers in the vicinity. As we mentioned earlier, it takes all types which makes it a more colorful world. We have our own yellow rope but decided should we take it out and climb those boulders, we might embarrass the fellows with their fancy and expensive gear (and courage).
Editor at peak of Ryan.
Cacti at dawn, no less dangerous.
A fond farewell to a harsh but inviting region.
Finally, the editor's knees have healed. Today, she experienced no pain in those vital joints. We would like to thank again those people who offered sympathy.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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