Panorama Loop Hike: Joshua Tree National Park. Third time's a charm.

This is the third time in the past five years we have taken this hike.  It is one of our favorites, even though the first two times the wind was blowing so hard that we thought we would be blown off the top.

Today, though, was perfect.  Perfect temperature and no wind.

Here is a photo from our first hike, early in 2012.  Look how bundled up Vicky is.

Then, early in 2013.  Still cold....and still very windy.

She's hard to see, but that is Vicky at the top of the hill:

Today was practically perfect.  Nice warm temperatures.  There was still snow on the trail which made it fun.

At the top:

Drinking my morning coffee while looking over hundreds of miles of beautiful scenery.  What could be better?

Hiking data:  Starting from the back country board near the entrance to Black Rock campground in Joshua Tree National Park, the hike was 1250 feet of elevation gain and 6.7 miles.  On a good trail.