I love going around the country, checking out the various sights and sounds. It's purifying to experience nature at its fullest, getting away from life along the way. After all, regular life and dealing with people can be stressful. That's especially true when it comes to going to California, namely Joshua Tree National Park.
When moving to Las Vegas, I had a bucket list that I kept with me. On that list included traveling to both Joshua Tree and the Grand Canyon. Both places are awe-inspiring and feature the best aspects of the western part of the United States. Fortunately, I got to experience the best of both worlds, seeing the beautiful geological aspects. Therefore, I can die a happy man knowing I have one item crossed off (don't worry, I still have plenty to live for).
The beautiful thing about living in Sin City is you can enjoy nature in under four hours. Whether you're looking to experience southern Utah's gorgeous mountains or see the beautiful desert in Arizona, there are plenty of options. That's especially true when traveling to this Riverside County delicacy, where you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Joshua Tree National Park is located in both Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Sitting under three hours from Las Vegas, it was once a national monument (declared in 1936) before being designated as a national park in 1994. Encompassing a total of 790,636 acres, it's slightly larger than the whole state of Rhode Island. That includes more than half being designated for the wilderness, including mountains and a desert.
Often a favorite among millennial travelers (myself included), there are plenty of reasons why you should check out this San Bernardino delicacy. I was left in awe by the geological layout of the area, including Skull Rock. I also love the diverse ecological systems within the region, where you can experience both the mountains and the desert. On top of that, you can camp out here and enjoy the beautiful night sky. No wonder my generation loves this national treat!
If you're looking to check out Joshua Tree, it's best to go during the fall. You can enjoy the cooler weather and avoid California's raging wildfire season. On top of that, you can see the wildlife in its purest form, especially if you're an avid birdwatcher. Whether it's a roadrunner (beep beep!), the northern mockingbird, or the cactus wren, you have plenty of options while you're here. Don't vandalize the park, though; this Riverside delicacy has had many issues dealing with this in the past.
There's nothing more scenic than driving through California and seeing the desert. If you like checking out the mountains and seeing barren land on your drive, this is the perfect place for you! You won't regret enjoying the best that the Golden State offers, mainly if you love hiking and camping. Come see what the rage is all about and enjoy the best of Joshua Tree!