Joshua Tree: Spiny, Yet Lush

The world is all about dichotomy, isn’t it? Case in point: the landscape of Joshua Tree National Park.

I’ve written before about the attractive but aggressive cholla cactus, and at Joshua Tree there’s a whole garden of them. (I captured these images on the Cholla Cactus Garden Trail.)

So pretty! But don’t get too close, because those fuzzy-looking little nuggets are actually ninja-style spine bombs.

This genuinely fuzzy friend knows to keep some distance.

It was hot during the day (mid- to upper-80s) so I got out every morning for a hike. I’m not much of a morning person – at least, as in joining the world in the morning – but, surprise, it’s actually worth it to get up and out this early. Sometimes.

This was another example of dichotomy – an actual oasis in the desert, on the Fortynine Palms Oasis trail.

The spooky yet beautiful scene at the top of Ryan Mountain.

Barrel cactus putting on a colorful show.

And of course, the park’s namesake. Desolation and spiny elegance in the Joshua tree.

There are a few dirt roads in the park where you can walk dogs, and I found this lone Joshua tree on one of those with Sam. I made it with my iPhone and, as usual, wished I’d had the foresight to bring the Sony or Pentax. But, alas.

What’s your favorite example of dichotomy? (And when was the last time someone asked you this?) Let us know in the comments. 

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