Joshua Tree National Park, was one of my top favorite parks of all-time. The Mohave Desert and the Colorado Desert, which each have very distinct desert ecosystems, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. We ended up going there twice. The park, characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes, consists of just over 1 million acres! The first time we visited is when I took the boys (while J.Jay was visiting) and Saylor for a quick scout-out trip while Greg was working. The following weekend we all went to do some more exploring. The beauty was so overwhelming that it was nearly impossible to take a bad picture. See for yourself…
This is J.Jay’s shadow. He was standing ON TOP of our truck to get the “perfect” picture. He is very into his photography.
I took this out my window of him up standing on top of the truck. LOL
There is a reason we don’t want to get close to these cacti. They are called “cholla” (pronounced ‘choya’ by the locals) and are jumping cactus! We found these hiking shoes abandoned on the side of the path.
Our oldest son, Robby, was attacked by a jumping cactus when he was about 14 years old, so we know better than to get too close! Here is a cholla garden.
Interesting view out Moses’ back window.
Check out this guy’s campsite. This campground in the park was absolutely gorgeous. Our rig is too big to stay anywhere in the park, but this guy has a great little setup.
Another shot in the campground.
A VW van just passed us! Reminded me of my daddy. We had many VW vans and other vehicles when I was growing up. He was a VW aficionado. He even taught me to drive in a VW Karmann Ghea!
This park is also famous for it’s continually changing and ever beautiful skies.
Look at this sky!
I love the perspective of this picture. This is Moses’ view.
Big Horn Sheep crossing!
Saylor was happy
Read and learn…
If you ever find yourself even remotely close to the L.A. area, make sure you take some time to take a trip to Joshua Tree National Park. As I said above, each of the two deserts that converge here have very distinct ecosystems, which are primarily determined by their elevation. There are very few places that more vividly illustrate the contrast between “high” and “low” desert. It definitely deserves a spot on the bucket list.
More travel blogs to come, so keep a watchful eye out! Until we meet again…