Last year we missed visiting Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona, during our snowbird season. It lies in southern Arizona right against the border with Mexico. We weren’t too sure about it since we had been warned that there are lots of “illegals” crossing the border there and it can be dangerous.
After doing some research of our own, we decided to pay it a visit, and we’re so glad we did!!
First of all, we didn’t encounter a single person trying to cross into the USA. We stayed at a beautiful boondocking site on BLM land, and the camp host who has been going there for 8 years said he has only encountered one Mexican who was crossing over and they were just looking for water.
There were lots of border guards though. We were stopped every time we left our campsite. Lots of helicopters too. But that’s okay, it wasn’t a problem at all.
Another thing there were lots of … cacti!! A LOT!!! It is the lushest desert I have ever seen. It was more like a jungle than a desert.
Please click the image to view a larger version.
Where else can you get Saguaro, Organ Pipe, Teddy Bear Cholla, Chain Fruit Cholla, Barrel and Ocotillo cactci as well as other plants like the Brittle Bush and Creosote Bush all in one frame? Not to mention the gorgeous colours in the mountain side.
I have many more images of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument to share with you coming up on the blog.
Awesome. Love it
Thanks Jim!
Beautiful-Peaceful-Magestic
Thanks Doug, I appreciate that.
Very much enjoying your blog and photos. Would love to trade places with you!
Be careful what you wish for 🙂 No, really, I highly recommend it. Thanks for your visit and comments.
The photo processing is very subtle and nicely done. does not distract or create a superficial look. That is what I struggle to achieve.
Thank you very much for your nice words Michael, it’s great to know that my goal in processing is being achieved. I like the natural look with subtle processing. Thanks again!
This is so beautiful. I really do love the desert landscape. Thanks for sharing.
Many thanks Mary!
Good to know the border guards weren’t too much of a hassle. Really looks like a beautiful spot to chill.
It was one of my favourite discoveries this year! Thanks for your comments Devlin.
Anne,
That photo of the cacti/desert is incredible. The cacti, mountains, sky, landscape, and those beautiful green colors–Wow! Magnificent. Thanks.
Brings back memories. I spent many wonderful days driving and walking around southern Arizona, 1969-1970.