Day hikes are an inexpensive and engaging form of exercise. Hiking can also be a way to get together with great people. The experience of letting go of time and immersing oneself in the path and its surrounding can very fascinating. Go prepared and just be in that moment. These are photos from some recent hikes.

Firecracker penstemon or beardtongue are found throughout the west at 3000-11,000 feet elevation sunny areas. They bloom in spring and summer. Hummingbirds love them.

Butter-and-eggs are mostly visited by bumblebees. This plant is considered a weed by some, found along ditches and in fields.

Northern cloudywings are skippers that perch with wings half open, not a common trait in skippers. They are found in the mid to high elevation mountains of the southwest, usually in sunshine areas in open woods, fields or brush.

Be inspired to hike: GO HIKING, BEING IN MY CHURCH