Changes in landscape are so distinct from state to state in the USA – I’ve noticed this especially in my recent travels across the southern (from east to west) parts of the country.
From the rusty reds and yellow hues of Washington DC’s fall foliage, to the grand arched branches of Charleston’s live oaks, to the dramatic sunsets of Texas that form a fiery backdrop to its shrub covered flats; the effect of nature on one’s impression of a place is so pronounced.
One of my favourite landscape vistas on this trip was while driving through Arizona. Heading from Sedona towards Phoenix, gently undulating mountains frame the highway as far as the eye can see, their slopes punctuated with dozens and dozens of columnar catci. It was tough to get a sharp photo from a moving car so I leave this scene to your imagination. “Wild” is an initial thought that popped into my mind.
Below are a few images taken at a rest stop in Black Canyon City, AZ. Enlarge and look into the background of the first image – you might see multiples of what in reality are giant polyp-like succulents.
Prickly Pear Cactus
Are you there yet? I noticed that state distinct landscape thing when I travelled in the US and the sheer size of the place but you would have been used to that from growing up in Australia. These cacti are amazing. Nice post Marina.
Yes, in LA and loving it. Hot weather and space – so much space! The size is just like Australia, but the landscape changes here are so distinct. It’s unbelievable and reason enough to drive across the country
Thank you!
I love that blue sky !!!!
Nature at its best! Thanks so much!
So beautiful…I wish I could look out my window and see skies that blue…
The skies are beautiful – I agree. Especially over flat lands, when the sky seems endless. Thank you!
I like the cacti very much.
I’ve seen the cacti make wonderful-looking gardens. I like them too. Thank you Shimon!
I’ve been to Arizona, and it looks just like this!
Beautiful. A change from New York City!
Such a huge change from NYC – weather wise and landscape. Not to sound cliche, but it really is night and day difference! Thanks so much Karen
You hit Arizona at such a good time when the skies are clear and blue and it’s not so hot outside. Love the shot of the saguaros.
Hi!! The skies were beautiful and the days were warm in the sun. As soon as I hit shade, I cooled down quickly. Such a memorable place! Ahhh, is that what those cacti are called – thank you!
Lovely desert shots, Marina!
thanks fergiemoto!
These cacti look so cheerful happily sitting in the sunshine! The sky is unbelievable; we never get that here in London
Maybe somewhere in South West England like Cornwall 
The neverending blue skies – I love that about ope highways. And the cacti are so funny to see – popping up all around you. Come to West Coast USA – you’ll see these glorious skies K!
I wish