Surprise Tank

 I've hiked to Surprise Tank a number of times over the years, but I've never been here at night. Being out here for the night sky and the Milky Way was something I really wanted to experience, but first, let's do a little exploring. I'll show you night skies next time I post.

With the recent rain, I was looking forward to getting out to the desert (and hoping to find water at Surprise Tank). As I entered Joshua Tree National Park, the Chinch weed was everywhere! It was like a yellow carpet that went on forever. It contrasted beautifully with the blue sky!

 

The rock formations around Surprise Tank are fascinating!

 

 

Perhaps the skull of a pack rat or kangaroo rat. How it came to be impaled on the spines of this Joshua tree is a mystery.

 

Nolina flower in the light, while everything around it is in shadows.

 

 

Nice view of Surprise Tank from the rocks above.

 

Surprise Tank in 2021 after a good rain or two.

 

Well, I got my wish... kind of! Surprise Tank with water, 9.20.25. Just not a lot of water, but better than nothing. Somewhere between a mud puddle and a pond. For 98% of the year, it's bone dry behind the dam, so anyone who has every hiked out here and seen water should count themselves as fortunate!

 

Above, 9.20.25. Below, 12.28.21, with a lot more water.

 

Ravens are very curious birds. This one sat on this rock, cawing at me for about 30 minutes while I explored Surprise Tank. I got the impression I was invading his territory!

 

Even a little water in the desert is magical!

 

 

I've talked to people who have said they looked all over these rocks for Surprise Tank and could never find it. Even when it's right in front of you, it blends in quite well! This is another of those wonderful "unofficial" locations in JTNP. No trail goes to it, Park Rangers don't talk about it (I'm sure many don't know it exits), and it's not on any maps. My favorite kind of place!

 

Linking with Skywatch Friday.

Thanks for stopping by!!