The last week of May Pedro and I flew to El Paso, which was the closest airport to the wedding of friends of ours in southern New Mexico. Looking at the map before the trip, I realized we would be close to three national parks that I have never visited, and was determined to visit them all.
We landed without too much trouble, rented a car, and drove east to Carlsbad, New Mexico. We passed Guadalupe Mountains National Park on the way. It was after hours and the visitor center was closed, but we parked and walked a trail.
Pedro and I were not eager to spend much time in Texas, so the closed visitor center was just fine with us. But the park is left open for people to come after hours, and hike the trails and use the restrooms. There were other people there, relaxing, walking and enjoying the peaceful spot.
The research I did revealed that the main activity here is hiking. The options consist of different lengths of trails. We were trying to eventually reach our reserved room and rest, so we chose a short trail. Pedro was supporting me, and I wanted to stay long enough to say I had actually been there. The Pinery trail did the trick.
The marker above states, “Ruins of “The Pinery” or “Pine Spring” stage stand. Built in 1858 as a station on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route St. Louis to San Francisco. Abandoned in 1859, when the line was shifted to the Davis Mountains Route.”
A Black-throated Sparrow and I think that is a Southwestern Fence Lizard above.
I find desert flowers to be extraordinary. They aren’t necessarily more pretty than other flowers, but their existence alone, in a tough environment, makes me appreciate them more. And don’t you just love those blooming cactus?
The exercise out in the air was refreshing, even while it was hot out. It had been a long day, beginning with a very early start, and ending with a 2.5 hour drive. I am glad we decided to break it up here. After Guadalupe Mountains NP, we had only one hour of driving left before we arrived at our room for the night.
Conscious Engagement 
Once again, you pack in the adventures, wherever you are! That NP is still on my to-visit list – hopefully early next year. I love all of the beautiful photos. Nice job!
Thank you! Yes, I do pack in the adventures. It’s almost a behavioral disorder with me, ha ha. But I remain ever conscious of my short life span. How cruel to live in this enormous world with only the life span to enjoy a teensy bit. I am maximizing whenever I can. But you, too, pack so much into your life. You will never have to suffer at the end of your life sorry for wasting time.