Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Usually when I take pictures, I’m snapping mountains or rivers and I always slip in a couple of flowers and trees, because, well I love flowers and trees – and let’s face it, even the prettiest mountains and rivers can get boring without some wispy plants or a pop of color provided by some flowers somewhere in the frame.

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Well this post is going to be almost entirely pretty flowers and trees. And cactus and bridges. And a couple mountains, to add some variety. So if you don’t like flowers, cactus and trees, you might as well close out of your browser now, because you’re not gonna like this post!

I spent today at the Desert Botanical Garden at Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona. The day was (supposed to be) in the low 90s, which actually turned out to be 106 when I got back in my car. I know I’m from Wisconsin and not used to the heat. But man, I knew it was hotter than the low 90s and I was right. Well, I survived since there were plenty of shady areas to sit and catch your breath.

A group gathered for a tour – free with admission. Eleanor was our volunteer tour guide and you could tell that she loved her job. She has been a volunteer for over ten years and had lots of great facts about the Garden, but she kept it light and informal.

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Here was the star of the show, standing so proud on the side of the hill. The sun was directly behind this handsome saguaro, which kind of made him glow. We used to say that the saguaros where flipping you off if you didn’t love their prickly exterior. Every time I think about that, it makes me smile!

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

In one of the little inlets with a bench, I saw this cute little hummingbird just sitting there taking a break. When he flew off, there was bright purple under his chin, which totally didn’t show up on this picture (trust me!). I was just pleased to get this close to him as he rested for a while. The Garden was having a “Mariposa Monarca”, a Monarch Butterfly exhibit, which was just beautiful. I won’t tell you how many shots it took to get this little guy to keeps his wings open for me!

If you ever find yourself in Phoenix, make sure and stop at the Desert Botanical Garden. It makes for a wonderful day and a beautiful desert experience.

Happy trails,
Barb