Ever wanted to venture into the crater of a volcano? In Northeast New Mexico, you can do just that in Capulin Volcano National Monument. Capulin is in the heart of the 8,000-square-mile Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. Capulin Volcano rises more than 1,300 feet above the shortgrass prairie. The first time I saw it was at sunset … Continue reading
Joshua trees are known for their spiky leafed, branches reaching for the heavens are ubiquitous in most of Joshua Tree National Park, but not on this trail. The elevation is too low for the yuccas (Joshua trees don’t have rings so they are not really trees). Instead, you’ll find palm trees in this secluded oasis … Continue reading
It’s Joshua Tree National Park’s most dangerous hike. Not because of the extreme heat, rattlesnakes, or rugged terrain, but because of the “teddy bear” cactus. It sounds cuddly, but it’s not. You are literally surrounded by cacti in the Cholla Cactus Garden. It’s one of the shortest hikes in Joshua Tree, but could easily be … Continue reading
“I wanna run, I wanna hide. I wanna tear down the walls that hold me inside.” Those are the first words of “Where the Streets Have No Name.” Those are the opening words of the legendary rock band U2’s album The Joshua Tree. For years I had wanted to go to the mythical and magical … Continue reading
While enjoying an easy hike in Rocky Mountain National Park recently I stumbled upon a symphony of frogs. It always fascinates me how wildlife create symphonic melodies. Look closely to see the tiny frogs. Continue reading
