A Desert Gem in the Sun

Black-tailed Gnatcatcher

Last weekend, we set off on a short and scenic adventure along the Agua Caliente Hot Spring Trail in Agua Caliente County Park. This easy 1.5-mile trail may be short in distance, but it was packed with desert charm, incredible views, and some surprisingly great birdwatching. The warm and sunny weather made it a perfect day for exploring the desert foothills.

Trail View

A Warm Welcome

Engelmann's hedgehog cactus

As we stepped onto the trail, we were immediately greeted by the sights and sounds of the desert. The rocky hills, dotted with creosote and ocotillo, felt peaceful and still. But the birds were active from the start, adding color and movement to the landscape.

Trail View

Humming Along

Costa’s Hummingbird

We spotted a few Costa’s Hummingbirds darting from flower to flower, their brilliant purple crowns catching the sun at just the right angle. Watching them hover and zip around always adds a bit of energy to the slower rhythm of a desert hike.

Trail View

Verdins in the Spotlight

Verdin

Many Verdins made themselves known throughout the walk, calling from the low branches and hopping busily among the bushes.

Apricot globe-mallow

These tiny songbirds are such a joy to watch, with their bright yellow heads and nonstop curiosity.

Trail View

A Flash of Yellow

Yellow-breasted Chat

One of the highlights of the morning was a sighting of a Yellow-breasted Chat. Its bold colors and strong voice made it hard to miss, even as it moved through the thick brush. We paused for a while to admire it as it sang from a hidden perch.

Overlook

Desert Dwellers

Black-tailed Gnatcatcher

We also came across a pair of Black-tailed Gnatcatchers, flicking their tails as they hunted for insects. Their soft calls were just barely audible over the rustle of the breeze.

Teddy-bear Cholla

A few Orange-crowned Warblers moved quickly through the canopy, adding soft greens to the mix.

Orange-crowned Warbler

Bright and Beautiful

Scott’s Oriole

The real show-stopper was a Scott’s Oriole perched high on a yucca stalk, singing its flute-like tune into the desert air. Not far away, a pair of Lazuli Buntings brought an extra splash of color with their vivid blue plumage—truly a treat to see.

Lazuli Bunting

Last Sightings

White-crowned Sparrow

Toward the end of the hike, we spotted a White-crowned Sparrow hopping through the underbrush, and a lone Phainopepla, looking sharp with its glossy black feathers and signature crest. These final bird sightings made a perfect end to our desert stroll.

Phainopepla

A Short Trail, A Full Morning

Trail View

Though the Agua Caliente Hot Spring Trail is short, it delivered a wonderful mix of desert beauty, wildlife, and calm. We left feeling relaxed and content, already talking about coming back again.

Orange-crowned Warbler

It was a warm and rewarding way to spend a weekend morning together.

Creosote