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Big Morongo (11/30/2023)

When researching different hikes to do near Palm Springs, we learned that there were hikes in desert oasis areas. That was of interest to us, as it seemed like it would provide views of different types of vegetation. So today, we headed about 30 minutes north of Palm Springs to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. Our pre-trip research showed that parts of some trails were closed due to Tropical Storm Hillary that went through in August, but enough were open to allow for a couple of hours of easy hiking in varied scenery.

Passing the many wind turbines on our way north
A sign at the front noting the damage from August’s hurricane
The map of hiking trails.
We did everything except the portion highlighted in red, which is closed.
Starting off on the Marsh Trail, which is a boardwalk
Lots of trees (mostly Mesquites) close to and/or overhanging the trail
Looking across the preserve to the small community of Morongo
Seating amongst the Mesquite (note all the pods on the ground)
Looking across to the mountains in the distance and the low hanging clouds
Some color along the trail
Look at the variety of plants!
Another view of the varied vegetation and a 2nd parking lot for the preserve and Morongo in the distance
Pretty tame elevation changes in the park
A wild looking Mesquite tree
How low can you go, frond?
More color in the western half of the park
Another shot of the plant variety

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