Sandia Foothills

Albuquerque has an extensive open space program with many acres set aside and many trails all through the Sandia foothills. The open space areas extend right up next to the Cibola National Forest and the network of connection trails goes clear to the top of the mountain.

I took about an hour and a half walk along the lower reaches of the foothills, quite close to the residential areas that extend up into the heights above the city. My purpose was to get some exercise, since I missed my Sunday walk, and to look at the native plants that grow at that elevation (6,200 ft.).  I'm looking at changing the landscaping around my house and want to use native plants.

It was a cloudy January day but not too cold. There were a few birds including a roadrunner,   I was looking for the elusive Jackalope but I only heard a few sounds of scampering feet.

The elusive Jackalope

One thing I did see was absolutely amazing. This is the first time that the actual birth of a granite boulder has ever been captured on film.

I hope to lead a film crew from National Geographic or NOVA back to the site...Maybe  even the History Channel or FOX news.

Anyway...I saw a lot and enjoyed my hike. There are so many trails that you can get lost in the maze but if you just walk downhill you will eventually find Trail 401 that runs along the lower boundary of the open space area.

Overlooking Albuquerque

I was surprised to see so many large holly bushes. These were about seven feet tall.

Lichen on Granite

Your faithful correspondent