April Trip to Bosque del Apache

Last weekend for part of Layton's spring break we drove south to do a little climbing (about 5 minutes worth) and visit NM's famed Bosque del Apache which is about 20 miles south of Socorro to watch some wildlife. The weather was not super cooperative but we went anyway and a great time.

Rain, sleet and snow in the backyard before driving south.

We arrived at Socorro's box canyon in time for gusts up to 50 mph and hailstorm. It was still fun to hike around and  attempt a few problems on the streambed traverse.

Pokey bouldering in the streambed

We arrived with sunny skies...

Birds of a feather

Whooping Cranes are the star attraction

"What's that!"

Clearing skies after the spring hailstorm

Going crazy after being cooped up in the car most of the day we started jogging the loop road

Absolutely beautiful. We saw about 25 species of birds including about 10 that were new for me.

After fun day of birding we stayed the night in ABQ and went to the aquarium/botanic garden the next day before heading back home.

The Japanese garden at the ABQ botanic garden.