Natural History Wanderings

DesertUSA reports

* We found *hundreds* of mariposa lilies in bloom on natural garden hillsides this morning at Catalina State Park, just north of Tucson. Park at the semi-circular area on your left shortly after entering the park, for ROMERO RUINS, where there is a nice picnic ramada. Walk toward the ruins trail, across a small, dry, river wash, up a short, sandy path. Do not go left at the Romero Ruins sign. Instead, keep to the right and follow the main, sandy trail.

Continue on this trail as it goes up several broad steps made from railroad ties. At the top of the rise, look around to get your bearings. The continue on this unmarked and unpopular trail. It is a splendid experience, and is roughly one mile long. Very easy walking. No hiking shoes or sticks are necessary, but have plenty of sunscreen, hat, water, snacks, plus battery and card capacity in your camera or phone. The best time to arrive is early, beginning around 7:00.

The trail ends at a box canyon that still has some running water. Along the way you will experience over fifty varieties of desert wildflowers in bloom. My wife is working on a comprehensive list that we will submit later this week to help you with identifications. Some highlights are (excuse any inaccuracies that follow) mariposa lily, owl’s clover, larkspur, ocotillo, brittle bush, desert marigold, globe mallow, monkey flower, thistle, fairy duster, hedgehog cacti, plus dozens more.

* Hedgehog Cactus are blooming in Catalina State Park near Tucson, AZ.

See photos at : http://www.desertusa.com/wildflo/tucson.html#ixzz3WZRGBgLR

Barnhardt Mesa off of Hwy 87 on April 4th. Sego Lilies, Globe Mallow, and Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus blooming all over the place along the first 2 miles of the road.

See photos at Desert Wildflower reports for Phoenix and Northern Arizona Area – DesertUSA.