Here we are in Borrego Springs and it's time to do some exploring of some of the many backroads in the area. We started off pretty easy with a trip up Coyote Canyon as we joined with friends, Rick and Chris, and Les and Judy.
It is particularly easy now as a large portion has been closed due to Hurricane Hilary in August 2023. Back in 1774, this was the route Juan Batista de Anza passed through on his mission to new Spanish settlements in California. As we drive it today, one can wonder the difficulties on the trip back then.
Normally, there are three water crossings but as with any large storms, water routes get changed, and debris is moved around.
Later on in the week we headed out to make a trip up Grapevine Canyon. This time we joined with Rick and Chris and with Lars and Lori.
Before the construction of local highways, this canyon was the main thoroughfare to the Borrego Valley for the horses and wagons as the settlers and miners came through the area. There are several springs along the route. We were not able to see any water at Angelina Spring but there is still evidence of there being water as the vegetation is relatively lush, particularly in comparison to the rest of the vegetation in the area. We also passed Stewart Spring which is still active. There has been a little cement retaining wall with a spout from the spring. This is obviously a great spot for the animals .
Further up the trail we turn and go through Hoover Canyon. Here the terrain seems to become somewhat rockier with huge boulders.
As we climb on the trail, the views are terrific, although it is impossible to take a photo and have it replicate what we actually see.
The kids went out playing on the boulders as they tried to see who could get to the top!
We saw quite a variety of plants and birds. This is a manzanita tree which is native to the area. Notice the dark mahogany coloured tree trunk.
This fellow was just perched up on the rocks. Fortunately he did not fly away when we stopped to snap his picture.
Here again is an agave plant. The first photo shows it in bud - notice how the stock reminds one of an asparagus plant
Here, it is just about to be in full bloom.
When we went into town yesterday, we sat and watched this hummingbird flit from bush to bush. The lipstick plant was in full bloom so this little bird was filling his tummy.