Sunday, March 4, 2012

Joshua Tree

 On a recent trip to Palm Desert, CA my mom and I drove to Joshua Tree National Park.  My only knowledge of Joshua Tree, prior to my visit, was that it was the inspiration for a U2 cd.  After being there, I can see why.  It was gorgeous!  My mom and I chose the Mastodon Mine Loop Trail because it was a quick 3 mile hike.  3 miles, no problem, right?  Little did we know we would be hiking up mountains and through lots of sand!  About 1/2 through the trip we realized how strenuous the hike was going to still be, and I was so proud of my mom for continuing to walk and really challenge herself.  It was so empowering for her to know that she climbed a mountain!  We didn't encounter many other hikers, making it an awesome hike.  Just us, the cacti, and the sky.

Pencil Cholla
Canterybury Bells

Desert Landscape

Mariposa Lily
Desert Senna






Me on a Mountain!

Coreopsis

Paperbag Bush


Mom climbed a mountain!
Silver Cholla



Starfish?

George Washington?