Man, I love national monuments. In this case, the appeal is interesting rock formations. The area is a melange of volcanic tuff, ash, pumice, and pyroclastic flow deposits. Some of these layers are tougher than others, forming resistant caps that protect softer material underneath, leading to the formation of funny hoodoos. To top it all off, there is a short, easy slot canyon that one can walk through too.
Tuffer than others. haha. (in case you missed the unintentional pun)
The combination of early morning light and canyon shadows led to some photographic challenges, but you can still tell the location was quite jolly as we started our hike.
The birds were out in force at this time of day. It probably helped that we were some of the first people there for the morning.
One of the reasons this park is popular is that there is a very easily-accessible scenic little slot canyon section on the trail. Kiddo liked this a lot.
I couldn't resist turning the last photo into a cartoon, as I had a magic app on my ipad back at the airbnb. Not only that, but I had set up the magic wireless transfer from my robust adventure camera to said ipad, so I didn't need any cables or computer to make this all work. Adventure Chad!
Back to the funny rock formations...
As the ravens croaked their morning songs at us
the rocks stared suspiciously at the puny approaching humans.
Continuing the trend from yesterday, Chad harassed the kiddo.
(clearly enjoyed)
Chollas bloom brightly in the sun.
(also good for photo-manipulation)
There were quite a few people staring at the ground on the edge of the precipice, discussing whether or not the cute little snakey was a rattlesnake or not. It was; I suggested they not mess with his morning nap. He looks like a contented snakey in the sun.
More fine rocks.
The way back down was as fun as the way up. We noted that it was a good thing we had gotten an early start, as there were definitely more people out as the day waxed later. (In fact, the small parking lot was full with a long line of cars waiting to get in by the time we left). The only part of the trail that was really annoyingly crowded, though, was the steeper section up near the top, where people in inadequate footwear were trying to work their way up with varying degrees of success. I had to laugh when one person referred to us as "real hikers" because we had hats and water. And boots.
Chad, admiring the view from the bonus loop of trail on the way out.
June seems to be a good time of year for flowering plants in these parts.
I like how some of the nooks and crannies have accreted rocks inside.
Hoodoos are just funny!
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