Joshua Tree National Park: Ryan Mountain

Ryan Mt and a forest of Joshua Trees

At over 5,400 feet, Ryan Mountain is one of the parks highest points.  It's readily accessible with a 1.5 mile walk but with 1,000 feet elevation gained.  Today Ryan Mountain used and abused the VPo Man.

All smiles in the beginning

The VPo Man on the summit after some suffering

The trail was relatively steep and relentless, but it was not rugged.  The trail was well packed dirt and made for a perfect trail run.  Surprisingly the trail appeared to be quite popular despite the elevation gained.

Ryan made for a nice hike and afforded views of the surrounding valleys and the snow covered mountains of the San Jacintos.  Of course we enjoyed many Joshua Trees along the way.  I'll let the fotos do the talking:

Hall of Horrors

A feature of Joshua Tree are these rock croppings rising from the plateau

San Jacinto Peak

Baby Joshua Trees