The Cosos

ebird list

We did three small trips in the Coso Mountains this spring, drawn of course by the flowers.  And they were lovely.  We also created a fun loop trail with scenery that doesn't require flowers to inspire.  So, with our loop, and plenty of areas we haven't explored yet, we will be back to do further exploring in the Cosos.

Our first trip was wandering around the flats out of Coso Junction.  It was a bit colder and windier than we would have liked, but lovely nonetheless.  

Locoweed

Tidytips

Did I mention, there are cool rocks in the Cosos.

Yes, it is stormy over the Sierra.

Coreopsis

Lupine and coreopsis

Thistle Sage and Desert Dandylion

Our second trip was inspired by a photo Bob McGown shared with us.  Thank you Bob.  We headed up and explored his slot canyon.  Lovely flowers and interesting hiking.  On our way driving out, I noticed more interesting scenery.  We decided to try that canyon, and see if we could connect it with the original slot canyon.  Turns out it makes a fun loop, not your ordinary trail loop, as it took us most of a day to complete the five miles. 

Phacilia 

Dark-eyed Evening Primrose

A few tricky spots to add interest.

Coreopsis and Pincushion

Apricot Mallow

Collared Lizard

This is our interesting scenery canyon.  We headed right to the rocks under White Cap.  Now that we know the loop goes, we will do it in reverse order as I want better light on White Cap as I eat my lunch.  Yes, hiking is all about having a pretty view for the all important lunch.

White Cap

Did I mention, part of it was steep?

Olancha Peak

Scattered Bones and Jurassic Peaks

Tidy tips

Once upon a time a great deal of water scoured this canyon.

More tricky bits.