“The first principle of value that we need to rediscover is this: that all reality hinges on moral foundations. In other words, that this is a moral universe, and that there are moral laws of the universe just as abiding as the physical laws. (from “Rediscovering Lost Values”)”
― Martin Luther King Jr., Letter from the Birmingham Jail
Today we returned to Joshua Tree NP to expand our exploration to the NW portions we had not yet seen. The Barbs offered to drive their car, an economical Subaru. We accepted! It was so enjoyable to observe as a passenger instead of as a driver. I took a lot of photos last time (almost 100). This time I tried to view the park without the distraction of the camera though I did shoot a few new attractions.
It became evident to me that mountains have a life cycle. My image of hard and durable granite was challenged by my observation of this amazing scenery. Massive granite mountains stratify into many segments. As the granite decomposes ground water washes the sediment down to the basin below. Eventually, only piles of granite boulders remain as the basin floor ascends. Amazing!
The highlight of the day was Keys View up on the San Bernadino Mountains at 5185′. The view point is about half way between the NW and SW corners of the park looking down into the Coachella Valley, where Palm Springs and Palm Desert are located at 150′. In that valley, the infamous San Andreas Fault line is clearly visible!
We exited the West Gate which is directly west of the East Gate, explaining the nomenclature.