Q Mountain

 This morning, Yuma and I were up with the sun, and soon, the coffee was brewing.  Going to be another beautiful day, but maybe the last one for a few days.  I was planning to head up to Parker to the Walmart, however, decided to enjoy the day outdoors exploring, rather than shopping.  Tomorrow, I'll shop.

Got a text from Dolly.  Had a picture of some of my kids up on the slopes in northern Illinois.  Not exactly on the slopes, but preparing themselves for the slopes.

Nick, Steve, Evan, Erin, Kristi and Lane

Here in Quartzsite, Yuma and I are getting ready for a different kind of slope.  We've decided to drive up to Quartzsite and climb "Q" Mountain.  Not exactly a mountain; more like a big hill compared to the mountains nearby.

No skis or snowboard, but I do have the pole.  At 10:45, we were off.  Instead of taking the highway, I decided to head up to Quartzsite, by the Pipeline Road.  It is a rough road going through washes and rugged terrain.  Took an hour, whereas by highway, it would have been a 10 minute drive.

Beautiful scenery

Finally, spotted our destination inside the city limits.  It has been climbed by many visitors and I've visited Quartzsite at least a dozen times, but never made the climb.  Well, today ends that drought.

This whole area has been mined over the centuries and this hill has a mine too.  I decided to walk up to what was remaining of the mine structure.

As usual, Yuma is saying, "Hurry, Dad!"

Dilapidated

We walked around the south side and there was a rocky path towards the flags at the top, so Yuma and I headed up.

Dome Mountains to the west

Another mine across the way to the south

Each year, it gets harder to climb

The Kofa Mountains, across the La Paz Valley to the east

See the Jeep down there?  The red thing on the ground is a geological survey marker.

Not very flat on top and not a very big area.  I was really uncomfortable standing as I had a fear of stumbling over the edge.

Rested at the top while looking around.  Yuma was ready to head back down.  This time, I went down the north side.  Much easier walk.

Before Long, we were safely down and heading for home.  We took the 10 minute route this time.  Glad I did it, but I'm sure it is a one time effort.

Around 3 o'clock, our group was enjoying the slight breeze on this 76 degree day.  As we all get to know each other better, the conversation flows more freely.  We all still end the day as friends and that is the important thing.  

At 6 o'clock, we all called it a great day and headed home to fix our dinners.

Thanks for stopping by.