Our Beloved Organ Mountains

 The Organ Mountains are a cherished part of the Las Cruces landscape. They lie east of the city, and the vast majority of new single-family homes is occuring at their feet. A main feature of the mountains are their soaring vertical "needles," long stands of granite that remind us of the pipes of an organ -- thus their name.

 The needles aren't visible in this photo taken on the way to Baylor Canyon, a favorite place for hikers. They are more to the north (left). 

Most days the Organs are bathed in sunshine, yet they look different each time you glance at them, as shadows are cast by crevices and outcroppings. Sometimes deep patches of shade play along their sides when clouds are out. During monsoon season, they can stand starkly against an almost black sky. In winter, snow dusts their heights. 

My husband and I returned to Las Cruces after 25 years away. Between the two of us, we've lived in every corner of the country and a few foreign countries, yet Las Cruces called us back. My husband, especially, loves the Organ Mountains. We have a peek-a-boo view of the "needles" from our back patio, and he enjoys sitting outside each morning, mug of coffee in hand, and eyes on the mountains.

See you tomorrow...with more of "Enchanted Las Cruces, the Hidden Gem of the Southwest."

Doña Holly