Mike and I hiked 11.8 miles on Friday starting from the Four Peaks Trailhead. It was a cloudy morning – we walked through some light rain showers midway through the hike.
Looking toward the Superstitions (on the left) from the parking area:
A view of the McDowells from T-Bone Ridge (which is part of the Technical Loop):
Mike spotted this prickly pear which appeared to be growing out of a chain fruit cholla. This growth was several feet off of the ground and there did not appear to be a separate cholla plant growing up from below. Discussion on hikearizona.com suggests that this may be an example of a crested chain fruit cholla.
Jon Leverenz says:
Can’t wait to join you in January!
October 13, 2018 — 8:18 am
Sue says:
Thank you! We need to be reminded a little cloudy day brings out even more color!
October 13, 2018 — 9:31 am
Linda says:
Welcome back Mike! Sorry I missed this hike. What a great find with the crested chain-fruit cholla! This phenomenon not only happens to saguaros as I just learned from an article I just read in ASU Thrive, Volume 21, Number 4, given to me by Denise. Great article on how researchers are looking into these crested cactuses to look for a way to possibly control cancer. “Crested cactuses have a condition called fasciation, a mutation of their growth pattern that results in some wild looking desert flora.” I think you guys found one!
October 13, 2018 — 10:05 am
Susan Davis says:
So very interesting! Thank you for the info!
October 13, 2018 — 3:44 pm
Tawana says:
Thank you for sharing your hike blogs! I always learn more about hiking and our surrounding area. Looking forward to joining you all again next year.
October 13, 2018 — 12:25 pm