Day 16

Today our family split up and went their separate ways. Some went shopping, some went hiking at the Indian Canyons, and busylizzy and I took the two oldest grandsons hiking in the desert. After studying hiking trail guides, we decided on one that was a moderate hike and about 3 miles in length, with a 700 ft. gain in elevation.

The Randall Henderson Trail is off of Highway 74 and 6 miles due south of where we are staying. The morning was cool so we dressed in layers and it was not long before we started stripping off some of the layers. The sun was hot and the air cool, very nice for hiking.   

We went through this little canyon and it was like walking into a refrigerator where there was continual shade. The hike was interesting, so different from what we have on the west coast. We were told to watch for rattle snakes sunning themselves on the rocks and to watch for Jumping Cholla Cactus which can almost jump out at you if you only brush by them. They recommend taking a comb with you so you can remove the balls of thorns in case you have an encounter with one of these prickers.

Our destination was the ridge that would allow us to peer down onto the Coachella Valley and see from Palm Springs to Indio in one big panoramic view. We were about 100 yards from the ridge when we came to this sign. Apparently the Mountain Sheep are having their young at this time of year and they are susceptible to great harm if disturbed, so the trail was closed. Chad was happy because he was ready to head back down. He was ready for a swim. Nathan was disappointed as were the rest of us. If we had stepped even a few feet beyond the sign, and got caught, there would have been jail time to pay. At least that is what the sign said.

It was a great time, among the cactus and lizards, but I would not want to be there on a hot summer day.

Tonight we were treated to a wonderful dinner at the Cheesecake Factory at 'The River'. My Chicken Madeira was about the best thing I have ever eaten. If that was not enough, I shared a piece of Caramel Pecan Turtle Cheesecake with Chocolate. This place is known for its vast menu, delicious food, and the most awesome cheesecake. Keith and Rachel picked up the tab which helped make it a most enjoyable evening. 

We have some Blue Ray DVD's here at our disposal so we will stay up late tonight and watch one of them. Decisions, decisions.