From the base of the Arch Canyon trail in Organ Pipe National Monument it was noticeably chilly, but spirits were high. As we commenced the trail, my blood was rushing from the excitement of what was ahead and from all the squats I was doing as I stopped to get a closer look at new plants and lichen that dotted my path. Scanning the walls, we saw stunted trees and shrubs hanging on to the rocky cliffs by their tangled roots. Although these conditions were fine luxury compared to the drier places we had visited earlier in the week, I'd say this was still a tough life. These organisms have to be tougher than the toughest weather conditions come their way, and I was impressed to see so much life as we made it 700 ft up from where we started at the trailhead. How strong the western winds blow is known to the one who scales the Arches. Strong enough to blow seeds to the lops of the cliffs. Strong enough to move rocks off their equilibrium. Strong enough to make me nervous on the narrow pass. Not strong enough to deter small rodents and birds from calling this place home. Not strong enough to stop us from scaling and observing.

I wonder what it is like on a calm day...

The Arches are not permanent, but a temporary geological phenomena. One day, the winds may blow them over.

Posted on March 10, 2022 05:47 PM by olesyamalakhova