Joshua Tree leaves me in a space of wonder. Seeing the world through the eyes of wonder changes us. I feel as though every time I return to the desert, not only is the experience different, I’m different. It’s a great way to recharge and reconnect…particularly with yourself…and disconnect from technology as, oftentimes, it’s not readily available off the grid.It’s a workout without having to hit the gym. They make you want to exercise! Visiting a national park usually involves a lot of hiking.There’s something for everyone and every age.If you’re a water lover, consider heading to Florida to learn about our coral reefs. National parks aren’t only above ground but also underwater.Adrenaline junkies are welcome for the perfect rugged mountain bike course or rappelling down your favorite mountainside.I didn’t quite get that while crammed into a station wagon with my squabbling siblings. Who knew? It’s so fun to learn about the history of our national parks. I shared in a prior post that Joshua Tree was part of the Gold Rush. They’re educational and rich with history.Nature is healing! Spending time in nature has been found to boost our immune systems, lower our stress levels and makes us feel happier.You’ll discover natural wonders you can only find in a national park such as volcanoes and petrified forests.It’s one of the most affordable vacations out there! You can even purchase a national park pass for only $80 and that includes up to 4 people in your car! Now, that’s a bargain!.Why visit a national park? Well…there are so many reasons but here are some of my favorites: Joshua Tree is made up of both a high desert and low desert or two vastly different expanses covering an unbelievable 1200 square miles! Every time you visit any national park, it’s different from the time before. Arriving just as the desert begins to awaken is an experience in and of itself. Sunrise is the quietest time in the park. There’s something magical about “ Golden Hour” as the desert is illuminated by the most magnificent glow. My favorite time to arrive in the desert is either sunrise or sunset. Given that Joshua Tree is only a hop, skip and a jump away from LA, it’s an easy escape that also feels like you’ve entered an alternate universe. No matter where you live, you too can find refuge in the natural wonder of a park near you. Every single one has its own unique “flavor” as nothing found in Mother Nature can ever be duplicated. Who knew that almost 85 million acres of the United States are dedicated to our national parks? There are actually 58 national parks spanning across 27 states. Today, I dream of returning to the desert whenever I’m in need of an energy boost or some space for inspiration and relaxation. I suppose it takes a bit of time to understand the desert and allow the magnetic tug to take hold of your heart and soul. I remember the first time I visited the park, I didn’t quite understand the attraction.
Luckily, just 3 hours southeast of LA is one of my favorite getaways, Joshua Tree National Park. In January of this year, I found myself burnt out. Not only do I get it … I’ve become absolutely hooked! I suppose if there is a “National Park Addiction,” I’ll admit to having it … proudly. I was much too young to understand the allure of Mother Nature and the grandeur offered by our spectacular national parks. Think Brady Bunch meets Beverly Hillbillies.
When I was a young girl, we’d pack 5 children, 2 parents, and a large German Shepard into a broken down wood-paneled station wagon piled with suitcases on top and traipse across the country to visit national parks. Joshua Tree National Park, CA “I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” – John Muirįaux Fur 1, Faux Fur 2, Faux Fur 3, Gown 1, Gown 2, Chelsea Sandals, Sandals 2, Sandals 3, Hoop Earrings
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