Slide Rock (Part 2)

 A couple people commented on my Part 1 post that this area looks like a geologist's dream, and I agree! Much of Joshua Tree National Park is geologically interesting, but this area particularly so.

After discovering what we are calling "Slide Rock", we are starting our hike back to the trailhead. The light is getting really good, and the sky is clouding up. My favorite time of day!

It looks like there's a little valley down there, but it's getting late and will need to save this for another trip. We can also see a little alcove. Let's see if I can crop it so you can see it better.

 

Do you see the alcove? Mitch and I agree this is on our "top 3" hikes to do in the near future. Not sure we can navigate through the boulders and trees, but very much worth a try!

 

Fantastic rock formations, and one of my favorite photos from the hike.

Travis, finding a high point for a panoramic view.

About half way back to the trailhead, we're getting light rain and lightning strikes off on the horizon.
 

An excellent example of soil erosion in this wash. The manzanita roots are up on the side wall. At one point, perhaps many years ago, the roots would have been underground. Flash floods can push large amounts of water down these washes and cause significant erosion.

 

Mitch, Roger and Travis heading down a wash on the hike back. I always seem to be lagging behind because I can't help taking pictures!

 

Mitch, following a wash.

Our cars are down there somewhere, about a mile or two from this spot. A little light drizzle and lightning on the horizon. Beautiful!
 

A hint of a rainbow!

The weary hikers... Mitch, Roger and I. Photo by Travis.

 

That wraps up our Slide Rock hike. I can guarantee that we will be returning to check out that valley and alcove on a future hike.

Linking with Skywatch Friday.

Thanks for stopping by!