After a couple of extreme drought years, Southern
California deserts are dry, dry, dry! This, along with a mid-April visit that was
well-past any winter rains, impacted our wildflower viewing. We saw flowers,
but not the massive displays and variety of two years ago. Still, the creeks
through Palm Canyon and Andreas Canyon near Palm Springs flowed with water, and
the palms looked healthy and green.
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| Panoramic view of Palm Canyon oasis surrounded by dry hills |
My folks and I drove up to Palm Canyon, identifying Honey Mesquite,
Creosote Bush, Desert Lavender (no blossoms), Brittlebush, and California Fan
Palm along the way. We enjoyed the view from above – the large oasis of palm
trees below, and the long line of palms that follow the creek up the canyon. From
the shady benches provided by the Trading Post, we savored cold water, and
observed the hummingbirds, squirrels, and lizards that flitted about in the hot
sun.
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Later, we hiked up Andreas Canyon in the welcome shade and
breezes of the palms and cottonwoods lining the creek. For a time, we heard only
running water and birds, and no motors or
people. Here we identified Yerba Santa, Lax-flower, Cat’s Claw Acacia (also
called wait-a-minute bush, since its recursive spines pull you back), Arizona Ash,
and mistletoe on several dead looking trees. We observed many lizards,
including a fabulous Spiny Granite lizard basking in the sun.
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| Hike in Andreas Canyon |
After our hike, we dusted ourselves off, freshened up, and
headed for the Maracas Restaurant in Palm Springs for delicious Mexican food
and conversation. The restaurant is located very close to the new “Forever Marilyn”
statue!
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