Yesterday was a hiking boot sort of day. We visited two very different slot canyons here in Anza Borrego Desert State Park. John and Pam had been to them both before but wanted to show them to us. Aren't we lucky?
We were able to drive right down to the first one, Palm Slot, off S22. We left the jeep at the entrance and hiked in. It began as a wide sandy wash with interesting patterns and details on and in its walls.
I'm afraid I slowed everyone down because I was fascinated by the rocks....over my head, under my feet and embedded in the sheer walls around me.
The trail gradually narrowed and the walls became higher. We had to crawl up over some rocky areas, under some fallen boulders, and through a few narrow passages. Friendly hands helped me over spots that could have hurt my knee.
|
Oh guys...... |
|
look up Pam! |
|
You take the high road and I'll take the low road |
|
peek a boo Dave |
|
two through, two to go |
|
a tight spot |
We came to the end of the canyon, closed off by a boulder fall, and turned around to retrace our steps to the jeep.
Our next destination, slot # 2 was a bit of a drive in the opposite direction but it felt good to sit down. To get to this one we had to park at the top and hike down into it.
|
Yep....going down in there! |
This slot was much narrower and more twisting. The walls were smoother without as many features. I took few pictures because I had to pay closer attention to my footing and to not "notice" how tight the walls were.
|
is that leaning rock stable? |
|
suck it in guys! |
|
John's red shirt seemed to cast a glow on the rock walls |
|
back out into the sun |
It was a really good day.
What fun! Those are the best kind of hikes when you have obstacles and interesting formations!
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome day....I love the slots!
ReplyDeleteNow that looks like it was great fun! The only slot canyon I've ever done was at Tent Rocks in NM and it was absolutely fascinating!
ReplyDeleteThat looks like fun! We really enjoy hiking in slot canyons -- but it does take focus to not twist an ankle or knee in those narrow passages. I'm so glad that you're enjoying your hikes -- great company makes a good hike even better!
ReplyDeleteWonderful patterns and sculptures in those walls! Lucky for you to have such strong men to hold up rocks and mountains for you :-) Love the pic of Pam way back in the "hole" after looking up. Looks like a really fun day of "nimble" exploration.
ReplyDelete