Wow—what a fun hike! We had to clamber over boulders in the wash, climb up a “natural staircase” wall, and walk through a limestone canyon that had a twelve-foot opening, making it a narrow “hallway”. It was only a five-mile round trip from the Pine Springs Visitor Center, but it had some challenges and beautiful scenery. We would recommend this hike if you happen to be here on a dry day. Clearly the wash we hiked through would be terrifying in a flash flood, though I would love to witness that from safety. Flash floods are what formed the canyon.

We got back into Whites City just in time to visit the Cactus Cafe. The restaurant is decorated with stain glass windows depicting scenes from the Carlsbad Caverns and from Guadalupe Mountains as well as having portraits done in leather, and giant photos from the Caverns. We had fun just walking around while our food was being fixed as we were the only customers near the end of their lunchtime. It was delicious, and we have leftovers enough for another meal.