Starting to ramp up my run volume now for the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile run, spending more time running in the desert. Here in Tucson, we have incredible expanses of open desert that's accessible to the public (with a permit), both State and BLM land. You can literally run or ride for miles and miles without seeing a man made structure, or another person.
I love the desert. It's raw and unforgiving in terms of the terrain, the vegetation (cactus are pokey.... ever had a jumping cholla grab you?) and the critters. At the same time, it's beautiful and unique in many ways to this part of the world. As a transplant from the East coast over 8 years ago, I have a great appreciation for it. I like the green rolling hills and green pastures of the east, but the mystery of the open desert speaks to me even more. Combine that aspect with the mountains and the open SW sky, it's just awesome.
Now, back to the critters. In the SW desert, the critters can be dangerous... in fact, they can kill you. It's not uncommon to run across any number of desert species that will put a hurtn' on you if you disrespect them, or run into them inadvertently. Probably the most famous of the dangerous desert critters is the Rattlesnake!
Yesterday evening, I was running and heard the bone chilling, heart stopping sound of the 'rattle'. Turn up your volume to hear it clearly in this video. This guy was only a few feet away from me under this cactus as I ran too close, and he let me know not to get any closer! This is why I NEVER wear headphones when running in the desert, and am very alert to my surroundings. Had I been wearing earphones, jamming' to my tunes, I may not of heard his warning to STAY AWAY!
The desert is a magical place in which to escape the comforts of everyday life, as well as the hustle and bustle. I really hope each of you can one day experience it, and find a deeper connection with nature. From the sunrise to sunset, to mid-night when you hear the Coyotes yapping in the distance, there's nothing more peaceful and serene. Enjoy the desert, but also respect it and it's inhabitants. After all...It's their home, and we're just visiting.
I love the desert. It's raw and unforgiving in terms of the terrain, the vegetation (cactus are pokey.... ever had a jumping cholla grab you?) and the critters. At the same time, it's beautiful and unique in many ways to this part of the world. As a transplant from the East coast over 8 years ago, I have a great appreciation for it. I like the green rolling hills and green pastures of the east, but the mystery of the open desert speaks to me even more. Combine that aspect with the mountains and the open SW sky, it's just awesome.
Now, back to the critters. In the SW desert, the critters can be dangerous... in fact, they can kill you. It's not uncommon to run across any number of desert species that will put a hurtn' on you if you disrespect them, or run into them inadvertently. Probably the most famous of the dangerous desert critters is the Rattlesnake!
The desert is a magical place in which to escape the comforts of everyday life, as well as the hustle and bustle. I really hope each of you can one day experience it, and find a deeper connection with nature. From the sunrise to sunset, to mid-night when you hear the Coyotes yapping in the distance, there's nothing more peaceful and serene. Enjoy the desert, but also respect it and it's inhabitants. After all...It's their home, and we're just visiting.
Great reminder about safely enjoying our great outdoor space. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteNice coach. Is this on Joy Ranch or another Tucson area ST? Rattle snakes are out here in the CENTEX as well, but luckily I saw none during a 14 mile MTB ride near Bastrop on Rocky Hill Ranch today.
ReplyDelete(Pete K--spinerval group)