Coyote Mountain Hike--Part 2

After steady climbing, some off route puzzlement, I reached a saddle and wow, what a scene.

Above, the mountain diminishes as it heads to the desert floor.

The trail continues going west so the views change incrementally.

Yeah, I was fascinated with it.  The slabs of rock would be fun to climb and a dirt road could be seen approaching its base so the area may be a desirable destination on a mountain bike or jeep.

The trail went through this passage.  I wondered if the rancher who created the route had picked at it to widen enough for a horse to get through.

At mile 3 I reached this ridge with Coyote Peak in the distance.  I wanted to climb it too because from there you have a unique view of Kitt Peak and the observatory.  Rain was forecast for the afternoon and clouds were sliding in so I....

...turned around and headed back while seeing.....

...the above cactus.  Small, beautiful but not something to touch.

As I neared my car, more clouds had rolled in and it began to sprinkle.  Not sure what rain would do to that sand and dirt road so I began to run, somewhat confident that the cool temperature was keeping the rattlers in the ground. Then...

...after getting in the car and beginning the drive, there were three cows in the way.  I was perplexed as to how to move them, figuring I'd have to get out and herd them but then they all got up and walked away.  The youngest seemed defiant but he too gave up the spot.  Finished with 6 miles and 3000' of climbing.