Shaw Butte’s Christmas Tree and Cactus

I’ve made hiking Shaw Butte on or near Christmas a tradition since finding the tree the locals decorate with Christmas ornaments. There was a wide variety this year … more that were eco-friendly, non-breakable and habitat thoughtful.

The trail was busy today and while always friendly, almost everyone said good morning and Merry Christmas to each other today. The Santa Cactus was not as decked out this year as in past ones.

Here were some of my favorite ornaments on the tree:

By the first of the year, someone from the neighborhood below comes up and removes everything.

This Christmas’ morning hike was a nice way to start the holiday off. For my previous pictures of the Shaw Butte tree and Santa since 2008, I’ve set up an album here:  ShawButte Christmas hike

Do you hike this trail? Join us at the We Love the Shaw Butte Hike Facebook page and share your thoughts, pictures, etc.

Merry Christmas from sunny Phoenix, Arizona!