It's an easy mile to a large boulder tagged with historical Native American art.
After interpreting the mysterious symbols, we then looked across Smuggler Canyon at our ascent gully.
We spent quite a bit of time wandering through the abundance of cacti and boulders.
Cecelia created her own chalk Pictographs.
After the gully we reached our ridge, which proved to be easier than the gully and provided our first view of the ultimate destination.
(Whale Peak seen in background)
We had fun on some of the cool rock formations atop the ridge. This one reminded us of a whale's head.
We also admired some beautiful plant life.
After passing a false bump or two, we reached the final push.
At last we summited Whale Peak. It was cold but clear, the previous night's storm having fled the area entirely. The whole State Park seemed within reach.
(View toward Borrego Springs)
(View toward Carrizo Valley)
Having lollygagged too long during the ascent, we now raced back down on the return, this time by way of the established trail through Smuggler Canyon. We got to the car with little daylight remaining.
(Smuggler Canyon at dusk)
