Best of 2009 Travel: Part 8 of 10 - Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Situated along the border between Mexico and the United States is a little piece of desert beauty. In addition to the parks namesake cacti, numerous species of desert flora and fauna flourish. The easiest access to the park is by a loop road that offers a good overview of the terrain. An additional loop road and a few other tracks through the park have been closed due to dangers related to illegal immigration. (The park visitor’s center is named after a murdered park ranger.) Despite the limitations set by these woes, the desert scenery is sublime, particularly in the golden hours of the late afternoon.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all. Thought I've spent the past six Thanksgiving holidays away from my family I have had the good fortune to find myself in a variety of wonderful places. From the beaches of Orange County, California to the austere landscape of west Texas to the deserts of southern Arizona - each year I've had so much to be thankful for. This year is no different as I find myself among friends in New York City. Here's to a wonderful holiday, and to many more in far flung places!