Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

I was pleasantly surprised how lush and green Organ Pipe was. The park is simply gorgeous. It is unique and has been designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve. 12,000 years ago Paleo-Indians hunted mammoths in cooler, wetter woodlands. Today, plants and animals have adapted to high heat and scarce water.

Cholla up front, Saguaro standing tall

Looking across a rift valley

Bending toward the horizon at the end of the day.

Thorny Ocotillo, a spiny scarlet flowered desert shrub on the left

and Oran Pipe Cactus to the right

The Prickly Pear has a beautiful red fruit.

 It is often sought after as a delicacy.