A Weekend Away from the City - A camping story
Living in a city is full of noise. Beeps, honks, sirens, birds, people… you name it, a city has a sound for that. Well, almost. What a city doesn’t have is a sound for silence. To seek that, we packed our backpacks, sleeping bags, a few meals, and headed out to the woods for a weekend get away.
Life get’s busy, escape to the woods
Living in a city is full of noise. Beeps, honks, sirens, birds, people… you name it, a city has a sound for that. Well, almost. What a city doesn’t have is a sound for silence. To seek that, we packed our backpacks, sleeping bags, a few meals, and headed out to the woods for a weekend get away.
Tips for a successful camping trip:
Manage your weight
Know where you can find and filter water
Get your permits in advance
Plan your route before going
Go with friends
Have a destination with a view so the hiking is worth it
Enjoying the last light from atop a mountain on a camping trip just outside the city limits. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Slowing down to a walking pace, from the hustle of daily routine, the pitter patter of our feet fill our ears. Our bodies feel something different as we set our pace slow enough to look around at the trees and notice squirrels chasing each other. Life is different at a walking pace. Life is different outside of the city. Life is different when you go camping.
Tips for better than usual camping meals:
Bring two lighters and a cook stove
You don’t have to eat dehydrated meals and trail mix for every meal
Instant rice and Indian food packets are a great idea
Macaroni and Cheese is a light and quick option… try bringing some pre-cooked sausages
While escaping the city, a group of friends enjoy a meal as the sunsets. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
A practice in patience, waiting for our meals as our bellies growled. We wanted take-out from our favorite place, but that wasn’t an option. We only had what we carried in on our backs. Thankfully, the meal was salmon and instant rice. WOW! That was a great camping meal that brought a smile to my face. Now, it was time for the sleeping bag, the stars, and some shut eye.
This camping trip is what we needed to escape the busy life of the city.
It's in My Blood - A Life of Adventure Travel
As a kid, I had two dreams. First, to play a sport in college. Second, see the world. The outtake above is from a childhood conversation I distinctly recall as a kid. As an avid lover of the History and Discovery channel, I have always been blown away by this planet, the diversity of landscapes, and the endless adventures. With curiosity often at the root of my adventures, I have taken this mindset into adulthood.
Some of the best adventure travel trips are close to home, here is a surf trip to Maverick’s Beach in Halfmoon Bay, California. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
“Have you seen the world yet?” my adolescent self asked a newly engaged nurse at a doctors office.
“No I have haven’t, why?” the nurse responded.
“How do you know you want to be married?” I questioned
Documenting a red-point attempt while rock climbing in Pine Creek, California. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
As a kid, I had two dreams. First, to play a sport in college. Second, see the world. The outtake above is from a childhood conversation I distinctly recall as a kid. As an avid lover of the History and Discovery channel, I have always been blown away by this planet, the diversity of landscapes, and the endless adventures. With curiosity often at the root of my adventures, I have taken this mindset into adulthood.
As an adult, nothing has changed. I am constantly seeking adventure in my daily life. Adventures such as rock climbing, bike-packing, backpacking, mountaineering, ultra-runs, surfing, and so many more are just the tip of the iceberg for myself. At the end of the day, I am often asking myself how to budget my time for all of the adventures I would like to do in this lifetime. Even though I am not yet 30 years old, I am still unsure if there is enough time for all of the adventure’s I want to do.
What is Adventure Travel?
The Oxford definition of Adventure Travel states; Adventure travel is a type of tourism involving travel to remote or exotic locations in order to take part in physically challenging outdoor activities. In simpler terms, Adventure Travel entails going on a trip to do an outdoor activity like backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, mountaineering, etc. Adventure Travel does not require significant travel, as you could start a bike-packing trip leaving from your home. Meanwhile, many people chose their Adventure Travel trips grounded by unique locations different from their home they have dreamed of seeing.
Often the destination is well worth the effort on adventure travel trips. Here is a lake view from a backpacking trip and commercial photography assignment. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Dream Adventure Travel Ideas
Non-motorize Seven Summits (most likely sailing, riding a bicycle, and walking between summits)… would love to do this carbon neutral if possible :-)
Around the world motorcycle trip
Bike-pack the Trans Ecuadorian Bike-packing Route (AKA the TEMBR) and summit Cotopaxi and Chimborazo at the same time
Surf and/or Photograph every big wave spot, sailing between every break
Source to Sea trip of the Rocky Mountains to the Sea of Cortez
Cycle across the United States, from the Gunks to Yosemite Valley, with a climbing partner to climb at every classic/historical crag
Bike-pack the Baja Divide
*if you are interested in helping make any of these happen, please reach out to me.
Navigating a white out during an adventure travel trip to climb Mount Denali to make a mini-documentary on an endurance athlete. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Adventure Travel Has Become a Lifestyle
In addition to living on the road and searching for personal adventures to strive for, I have also built a lifestyle of documenting others on their adventures. Combining personal adventures with documenting other’s adventures, adventure travel has become a lifestyle.
Combing storytelling content creation with adventure travel has opened the door for a lifestyle of adventure travel. This photograph is from a multi-client sponsored surf adventure to Baja, Mexico. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
I am proud to say that I live in a van, with a P.O. Box as my permanent address. My life is focused on staying alive and awake, in hopes of overcoming the daily monotony of the typical American work life. With my camera and a pen, I tell stories. Photographs, video, and written words are my main outlet to tell those stories, but I do love the creative outlet of working side-by-side with illustrators and artists to make something unique.
My roots are in adventure, mainly adventures which focus on non-motorized and human powered tests of endurance. For myself, these are the most challenging, physically and mentally. They also seem to take the longest, as walking or riding a bike typically isn’t very fast compared to a car! However, this doesn’t mean I live a life without a motor. Some of my most memorable trips I have documented are used motors.
As an adventure and commercial photographer, I love the balance of storytelling and showcasing the wonders of a product. Especially when given creative freedom to step outside of my comfort zone and create something unique, challenging, and narrative drive.
For that reason, I have made a lifestyle out of adventure travel.
Some of my favorite trips:
Bike-packing the South Island New Zealand
Attempting to climb all of California’s 14,000 foot peaks in a single season
Ultra-running the Teton Crest Trail
Countless surf-trips to Baja, Mexico
Attempting to climb Mount Denali and film a mini-documentary
Thru-hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail
Not all adventure travel trips start the same. Here is a photograph from an Alaskan road trip that provided the opportunity to kayak to Portage Glacier for a commercial assignment. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Modern Day Adventurer’s Who Inspire Me
Stay Adventurous
Adventure is around every corner, you’ll just have to look. Be curious, heck be childlike, and let yourself break through the barrier of the monotony often bestowed upon the American workforce. Read stories of adventures. Look at photographs from adventure travel trips. Watch movies to inspire your next adventure. It’s my goal to help show you how to overcome that monotony and live a life without those barriers. That is why I share the stories of others, and myself, fueled by adventure. The way I see it, if you are willing to live adventurously, you can break the cycle that holds you down. So, stay adventurous!
We Came to Climb, but forced to Canyoneer in Arches National Park Instead
We came to Indian Creek on a week-long climbing trip, but mother nature had other plans. It was our third day of the trip and we awoke to a full-blown snow storm. We went to bed watching the sunset over the red landscape, only to open the van doors to a winter wonderland.
“So, what are we going to do now?” Sherman asks me as we leave behind a snowy Indian Creek.
“We cross our fingers that the storm passed Arches National Park and we go canyoneering for a couple of days?” I respond out of desperation.
Our snowy road out of Indian Creek, hoping to escape the cold and find a new adventure, like canyoneering in Arches National Park, Utah. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
We came to Indian Creek on a week-long climbing trip, but mother nature had other plans. It was our third day of the trip and we awoke to a full-blown snow storm. We went to bed watching the sunset over the red landscape, only to open the van doors to a winter wonderland.
Walking into Elephant Butte canyon to canyoneer in Arches National Park, Utah. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Packing up and driving back to Moab, as we surely are not going to climb on the wet sandstone, we are unsure what to expect. Bumping down the dirt road of Beef Basin, we tossed ideas back and forth. But, we were just guessing. Without service, we had no idea if this storm had dumped on Moab.
After a couple of scary turns that almost landed us in a ditch, some much-needed coffee, and reconnecting to the digital world, “So, it looks like this storm didn’t hit Moab. Do you want to go canyoneering in Arches National Park?”
The storm had lost its juices and faded out before hitting Moab, so the potential of a flooded canyon was minuscule, “Yeah! Let’s do it. Why not?!”
The hum of the van engine was going pedal to the metal. “Perfect!” I shouted as we motored away from the snow.
An hour and a half later, we were loading up our backpacks for Elephant Butte canyon.
“Which way do we go?” Sherman asked me as he waddled up to me like a kid in a candy shop, eager to play outside.
“Dish way, I tink!” I respond matching Sherman’s little kid's voice.
“Okay!”
Sherman making a few of the fourth class moves with a backpack full of gear to access our first rappel of Elephant Butte Canyon in Arches National Park. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
The two of us wandered around the boulders and a canyon towards a fourth-class scramble on some slick rock towards our first rappel. A full 70-meter length down a sloping face.
“1… 2… 3…” Sherman let the rope loose.
Thwap! The rope snapped as the ends snapped and slapped the sandstone.
“Into the ABYSS we go!” That was all I heard from Sherman before he disappeared over the lip. Only moments later, “Off rappel! This one was fun, you’ll love it”
Sherman rappelling over the lip of Elaphant Butte Canyon in Arches National Park, Utah. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Looking down at my harness, double checking everything is correctly attached, I secure my prusik. To myself I triple check, Harness is double-backed. ATC is correctly on and the locker is locked. The third hand is engaged. Okay, I am ready to go. “Rappelling”
Touching both feet on the ground, we pull the rope and commit to the canyon. Our only way out is down!
“That was great! Let’s explore this Elephant’s Butte.” I try to make a pun.
“Into the Butte we go.”
Taking a fake leap of faith into an inch-deep pool of water while canyoneering in Arches National Park, Utah. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Squeezing through a keyhole, wandering up and over a saddle, we find the remnants of the storm that had snowed us in at Indian Creek. The pools of water were fresh and still. We both joked about taking dips and jumping into these inch-deep pools. But, only joked.
Working our way down the canyon towards our final rappel, we started to encounter deeper water. The canyon was getting tighter and avoiding the water was getting more difficult. Butt sliding down a trickling waterfall, I found the final rappel station.
Standing on a couple of rocks that others graciously placed for us, I set up the rap as Sherman waited in the only dry spot.
A quick check of my gear and off I went, over the lip singing the Indian Jones theme song.
“I’m off rappel Sherman. You are going to love this one, it’s completely overhanding”
“Ooo goodie! I have a special gift for you!” A couple of minutes later I hear, “Spider-man, spider-man, spider-man…” coming from Sherman as he rappelled inverted!
Sherman rappelling like Spiderman in Arches National Park, Utah. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Four Sunsets You Don’t Want to Miss
Is there anything better than holding a warm beverage and watching the sun dip behind the horizon as the clouds and sky change colors? If so, I want to know what! Sunsets are a daily light display that makes my jaw drop when all of the ingredients align; slightly cloudy, something interesting on the horizon, and a nice jacket to keep you warm after the sun disappears. Over the past seven years of vanlife, I have prioritized watching sunsets, often stopping everything I am doing to enjoy this daily gift. In doing so, I have had many evening where my mind is blown by the beauty while living on the road. So, here are a few of my favorite sunsets, with the locations, so you can go watch them for yourself!
Is there anything better than holding a warm beverage and watching the sun dip behind the horizon as the clouds and sky change colors? If so, I want to know what! Sunsets are a daily light display that makes my jaw drop when all of the ingredients align; slightly cloudy, something interesting on the horizon, and a nice jacket to keep you warm after the sun disappears. Over the past seven years of vanlife, I have prioritized watching sunsets, often stopping everything I am doing to enjoy this daily gift. In doing so, I have had many evening where my mind is blown by the beauty while living on the road. So, here are a few of my favorite sunsets, with the locations, so you can go watch them for yourself!
La Jolla Shores, California
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/gC2vz2zN58rc5nC48
Best Season to watch: Winter
Heading to La Jolla Shores for a sunset bonfire, I arrived early to do some yoga and walk along the beach before everyone showed up. Ironically, as my feet squished into the sand and the sound of waves filled my ears, I forget that I was going to do yoga. Leaving my mat and towel at a fire pit to save our spot, I walked alone down the beach with my camera in hand. Walking, breathing, and admiring the variety of colors already showing in the sky, I lost track of time.
As I played with camera settings, experimenting with a long shutter-speed to get a motion blur effect, I zoomed in and out, directly pointed at the sun. Smiling and laughing, I was having a ton of fun by myself on the beach. I am sure the other people walking by must have thought that I was crazy! But that doesn’t matter, I was having a ball. As the blue and yellow was popping through the clouds, I was enamored by the process. Playing, just playing. No judgement, only permission to snap “bad” images as I played.
At some point, a buddy came down the beach to find me, “Hey man, you look like a lunatic playing with that camera, come hang out. The fire is going and the sun has almost set.”
The still reflection of the Grand Teton at sunset from Schwabacher Landing, Wyoming. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/rwyrU3b7BwyGkkF37
Best Season to watch: Fall
From Schwabacher Landing, there is a reflection that shines bright at sunset in Grand Teton National Park. Seemingly rising out of no-where, the Teton Range stands tall, reaching towards the heavens. A mystical place that one should visit in this lifetime. Schwabacher Landing is an aging oxbow bend damned up by beavers, creating the still pools of water perfect for sunset reflections during the fall. Impressed by the natural beauty of this location, I set up a chair, made some food, and watched the sunset between the different peaks of the Tetons. “This is the life,” I thought to myself.
A surfer taking in the best sunset in Baja Mexico at Cerritos Beach, Baja Sur. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Cerritos Beach, Baja Sur Mexico
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/f2woF8HWvnnQuK3R9
Best Season to watch: Winter
One of the best parts about Baja Mexico is that it is a peninsula, which means you can watch both sunrise and sunset over the ocean depending on which beach you are camping on. While the beaches at the tip of the Baja Peninsula are best for catching both, I have grown to love and cherish the surf beach called Cerritos Beach. This sleepy, ex-pat community has been growing up in recent years, but the novelty of watching the sunset from the water while surfing remains one of my all time favorite sunsets to watch.
The swell was pumping and I was on a surfing trip with a few friends. We had stopped at Cerritos beach for the barrels and point breaks. The hoots and hollers were going off as we road wave after wave. The surfing line-up was friendly and there were plenty of waves for everyone. At some point, I was surfed out, so I put my camera into the water housing and was snapping images left and right. As the swell pumped, I was having a ball watching barrel after barrel getting filled with surfers. From wipe-outs to rides of a lifetime, everything was aligning.
Swimming in the waves passes the time like nothing else for me. Floating, dunking under waves, doing backflips, and blowing bubble rings underwater, being in the ocean brings me much joy. Without even noticing, the evening had past and the sunset was here. All but one surfer had taken a wave in, now it was just us and the sunset.
The sandstone of Castleton Tower glowing red during a spectacular sunset outside of Moab, Utah. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Castleton Tower, Utah
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/6xCrDLrgpyTETnmf6
Best Season to watch: Spring
The light was fading as we all danced in the dirt lot where the van was parked. From below the tower, I could see the best view was going to higher up. “Hey all, I am going to launch my drone and watch the sunset light fade on the tower. Does anyone want to watch over my shoulder?” I asked my group of dancing friends.
“Yup! Yup!” I heard in response as the drone squealed high into the sky.
Looking over my shoulder I could hear the oohs and ahhs from the my friends. We were on a road trip around the Moab area to rock climb, site see, and just have fun as friends. As the sunset light faded into a deep red, the sandstone on Castleton Tower glowed. Snapping images with the drone, we all were silent as we watch the beauty unfold infant of us.
Conclusion
These sunsets have taken my breath away. All are unique and incapable of being repeated, but you can make memories of your own by visiting these locations for yourself. Wether you are planning your next road trip, or vacation, I highly suggest you check out some of these must see sunset locations. Better yet, go find a new place to explore for yourself, bring a camera, maybe a blanket and friend to cuddle as you watch the sunset. Your next gorgeous sunset doesn’t have to be far away, more than likely, your backyard will offer a spectacle. So, make sure to prioritize the daily light show that sunsets offer us.
Flip the Switch with Surfboard Shaper Ryan Lynch
In this episode, we chat with Ryan Lynch, the founder and head shaper at Timber Surf Co. Throughout this interview we chat about a wide variety of topics, but there is a theme; pursue your dreams. I know, this is cliche, but Ryan has embodied this mantra as he quit his corporate job working at Tesla, road tripped through Central America as a honeymoon—for several months—, and started his own sustainable surf board shaping business. Over the past few years, his shaping bay has transformed, as his goal of moving the shaping industry towards a scalable and sustainable endeavor. Check out his boards, give this a listen, and enjoy the video at the bottom!
The third episode of season four has dropped!
In this episode, we chat with Ryan Lynch, the founder and head shaper at Timber Surf Co. Throughout this interview we chat about a wide variety of topics, but there is a theme; pursue your dreams. I know, this is cliche, but Ryan has embodied this mantra as he quit his corporate job working at Tesla, road tripped through Central America as a honeymoon—for several months—, and started his own sustainable surf board shaping business. Over the past few years, his shaping bay has transformed, as his goal of moving the shaping industry towards a scalable and sustainable endeavor. Check out his boards, give this a listen, and enjoy the video at the bottom!
Reasons to listen to the podcast:
Learn how to switch from a corporate job to a passion job
Curious about traveling in Central America? Ryan shares his honeymoon road trip through Central America
Are you a sustainability focused individual? Learn how surf board shapers are making our oceans cleaner.
Want to learn about the importance of following your heart? Ryan’s story will take you there!
Listen to the Podcast:
Video from the recent trip to Baja Mexico with Timber Surfboards:
For two months, I traveled through Baja, Mexico in search of adventure. Surfing was the main goal, but for all those surfers out there, you know that not all trips go according to plan. Over the eight weeks, six of them were flat. Leaving only two weeks of waves. Don’t get me wrong, that is enough time for some serious fun. While we weren’t searching for waves, we made the most of our trip by fishing, hiking, paragliding, and checking out new locations. Along the way, I had the opportunity to bring along all of my @tamronusa lenses to document the story through Baja.
This recap video, created with @timbersurfco , shares what a life chasing waves on the road can be like while creating content as an adventure photographer. Give it a watch, make sure to turn your sound on, and please reach out with any questions you have about using a Tamron lens for video, traveling through Baja, or surf photography.
Seven Road Trip Worthy Landscapes to Visit
No matter where you are in the United States, the West has captured our attention as a symbol of freedom, exploration, and awe. While the symbolism remains, the reality is vastly different. With the modern highway system, road trips can take you to almost anywhere. If you are planning a road trip to the west and want to see jaw-dropping landscapes, below is a list of seven landscape worthy to visit.
No matter where you are in the United States, the West has captured our attention as a symbol of freedom, exploration, and awe. While the symbolism remains, the reality is vastly different. With the modern highway system, road trips can take you to almost anywhere. If you are planning a road trip to the west and want to see jaw-dropping landscapes, below is a list of seven landscape worthy to visit.
Castle Valley radiating at sunrise, photographed while on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
1) Castle Valley, Utah
Immediately, when planning a road trip, my mind goes to the American South West, think Utah and Arizona. With awe-capturing views like the Grand Canyon and Desert Towers, I am pulled to these majestic landscapes. Out of all the places, the pull has been strongest to Castle Valley, UT, the home of Castleton Tower. Not only is this a wonder rock climb, the perfectly erect tower commands a space that requires humility. Regardless if you are rock climbing, sleeping under the stars, or just passing by, this view of Castle Valley, especially at sunset, should be on your road trip stops.
Additionally, this view is only an hour away from the iconic Moab and Arches National Park, but without the people and always room to park overnight.
What to do: Rock climb, day hike, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Vu9bwTv1MYz2jBYB6
Mount Forker photographed while attempting to climb Mount Denali during a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
2) Denali National Park
In terms of mountains, Mount Denali is one of the grandest. I don’t say that lightly. For the most part, the mountain stands far away from most viewing areas, yet it towers towards the skies. Like bookends, Mount Hunter and Mount Forker create a trifecta of balance. Overall, getting close to these mountains is difficult, usually requiring a bush plane to access, or significant glacier travel skills, however you can enjoy the landscape regardless.
If you are road tripping to Denali National Park, I would guess you are spending a good amount of money, so opt-in for a bush plane flight. The money will be well spent and the views will be something you remember for a lifetime. Additionally, if you are on a road trip through Alaska, Denali National Park is a great place for adventures. Make sure to check out the backpacking, biking, rafting, and many more adventures!
What to do: Day hike, mountaineer, backpack, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/aFsg4iHk38buS8L68
Catavina photographer at sunrise while on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
3) Catavina, Baja Mexico
Halfway down he Baja Peninsula, while road tripping, you will come across an area without gas. Dividing the Baja California from Baja Sur (the two Mexican states that make up the Baja Peninsula) is a preserve with little amenities. Here, you will find the “town” of Catavina, which is more like a few abandoned buildings. The good news is, you are not coming to Catavina for a the town, you are there for the wilderness, for cactus reaching for the skies, the wildlife hiding out among the desert, and the solitude.
While being alone in Mexico might not be advised by American media, the solitude is incomparable and should be sought after. It is here that you can write a poem, watch the sun move across the sky, get a full-body sunburn, and reconnect with the natural world. I’m not saying this lightly, if you decided to dedicate time to this landscape on your road trip, you might feel like you walked through a portal to another dimension.
What to do: Off-roading, day hike, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VmAHYSMA4CqLdyKE6
Big Sur, CA photographed in early afternoon on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
4) Big Sur, California
The classic American road trip would not be complete without a jaunt down the Pacific Coast Highway, seeking out the rugged cliff-line that has iconically cemented Big Sur in road trip allure. From hot springs to day hikes to hidden waterfalls to secret surf spots, a road trip through Big Sur will leave you breathless. The diversity of landscapes, bridges, and access will make you want to come back time and time again.
I’ll be honest, on my first road trip to Big Sur, I did not do any research and I was lost. It was raining and dark, yet I still found a beautiful place to park my car and set up a tent. Sleeping overnight, I woke up above the clouds and thought to myself, “this is exactly why people talk of Big Sur.” Now, I was totally lucky, but regardless, making a road trip to Big Sur you will fill memory cards with photos and videos. Around every corner, you will want to stop. Take your time, sit with some tea, and enjoy the views.
What to do: Surf, day hike, backpack, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/dvdEf718MXEN96jh6
A photograph taken of Bonzi Rock, Nevada under the Milky Way while on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
5) Bonzi Rock, Nevada
I laugh at the name of this spot every time I write it, for I imagine there being a soul whom paddles out to this rock, walks up the backside, and trims the pine-needles that have gotten out of hand. In my wild imagination, I see picture a humble, old man who drinks tea and goes on long walks. Once done trimming the bonzi tree, his childlike character comes out and he leaps off the rock into the cold water. While I have never witnessed this, I hope to one day see it.
If you go visit this rock, via paddle board or kayak or swimming, enjoy it. Over the last few years, this spot has blown up because of Instagram, so be on the lookout for influencers in the wild. With that said, you can still have Bonzi Rock to yourself, especially at sunrise. The parking is limited, so that helps manage the crowds as well. For those of you road tripping, there are a few pullouts, park here. If you have to walk a little ways, don’t fret, it’ll be worth it. For all of you photographers out there, I suggest sunset and milky way shots, the light doesn’t hit here until midday.
What to do: Swim, paddleboard/kayak, day hike, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qXBFvSANSrZvk9Dh6
Blanca lake photographed while on an adventure road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
6) Blanca Lake, Washington
Park your van at the trailhead, maybe straighten up all that has fallen down from the bumpy road, and get your hiking boots on. Blanca Lake, just outside of Seattle, Washington is an awesome spot for a weekend warrior, or a traveller. This spot is tucked away, so many don’t come out here, but what really keeps the crowds away is the hike. Be ready to work your booty off. Many—actually everyone I met—day hikes Blanca Lake as an out and back. I do not suggest that! Take your time, especially as you are going to be hiking for a few hours, so make it an overnight trip. There is a bathroom at the saddle, where you will camp, if you decide to backpack.
I am not sure how long ago, but there are new rules for sleeping. You must sleep at the saddle, there is no camping at lake level. Please follow the rules!
What to do: Backpack, day hike, collect blueberries, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zEVGYAYB2q1ALtDa9
Grand Prism Hot Spring in Yellowstone photographed while on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
7) Yellowstone National Park
The first National Park in the United States, Yellowstone National Park, is a great one to visit for a road trip. The park is vast, so having a vehicle to navigate the landscapes in a reasonable amount of time is needed. If you are building a road trip in the Western United States, I suggest adding Yellowstone to the list. Why? Well, the landscapes are totally unique. When I was in middle school, my family visited Yellowstone to watch the geysers. As a little kid, the explosion of water fascinated me (make sure to check out the time-tables). When I returned as an adult, the geysers did not disappoint. Actually, they still amazed me!
In addition to the geysers, the wildlife is booming. It isn’t uncommon to see buffalo standing near the side of the road, where you can snap images from the drivers seat. I must admit, I did cause some traffic jams, but, hey, I’m a tourist… right?
What to do: View wildlife, day hike, photography
Directions to Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7jA8dDp52cLspLAX7
Final Thoughts
There is an endless list of places you can travel with fantastic views. My goal of sharing these seven is to give you an idea of some places to visit while on your road trip, or take you down memory lane with these images. Either way, I hope you have safe travels and please share your favorite places/photographs with me! If you visit a place, let me know on IG or email.
Living on the Road Q&A
I am super excited to announce that I will be co-hosting season three of the Occupation Wild Podcast with Courtney Condy. The season has already kicked off with a question and answer session around photography, van life, how to make money while living on the road, and so much more! Below is the link to the first episode.
I am super excited to announce that I will be co-hosting season three of the Occupation Wild Podcast with Courtney Condy. The season has already kicked off with a question and answer session around photography, van life, how to make money while living on the road, and so much more! Below is the link to the first episode.
Podcast Link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-81-season-3-q-a/id1470422711?i=1000566320935
more below…
Living on the road increases your opportunity and access to nature, like backpacking in the Eastern Sierra. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Questions Courtney and I attempted to answer:
What was your guys biggest inspirations for living life this way? Living non traditional lives?
How did you pick a new cohost? Was this a job that you were hiring for?
How do you pick which location to work? There are so many and it seems overwhelming on the site
How do you get hired as a photographer?
What are your favorite outdoor docs or books?
Do you think majoring in photography helps? Or does college not matter?
Getting started when you are over 40!
You should put yoga jobs on here!!
Why don’t you work with brands? Is there a reason?
How to go about retirement/ savings, etc money and insurance with this lifestyle
How hard is it to get a working visa for the US (i’m from Australia)
For Dalton: Do you pick locations? Do brands tell you where to go or do you decide?
Do you recommend traveling sola or traveling with a friend or significant other?
I just realized you don’t live in the mountains? Why is that? I feel like that’s unusual for the outdoor industry
What is the shortest amount of time companies have? My other job doesn’t give me much time off
How do you start as a creative? How do you find confidence to put yourself out there
I’ve been following OW from the start! How have you been able to grow it so fast?
What camera do you use?
Fav part about traveling or adventuring?
Tips about starting your own business?
What would you do if you just graduated from college?
What do brands look for when hiring photographers?
Why don’t all the jobs come with housing?
Living this type of life with kids?
All of these questions came from you all, so thank you very much for submitting your questions. If you have any more questions, or want to learn more, please shoot me a direct message on Instagram.
Reach out, give us a follow, and go live your life!
Local Tips for Visiting Travertine Hot Spring
Sucking it up, I put my big boy pants on— mainly to avoid being left behind by Kristin—and head to the hot spring. It was my first time here, I didn’t know what to expect and I was blown away. The landscape was cloaked in a orange glow as the light danced down the mountains and across the fields in the distance. Staring out from the warmths of the hot spring, I was proud that we persevered.
First person Experience
Watching las light disappear behind the Sawtooth mountains, Kristin and I snuggled. Tired from a long day of shooting (we were shooting a catalog release for Coghlan’s), we didn’t want to drive back to Tahoe. So, we found a camping spot along a quaint creek, ate some dinner, and made an ambitious plan to dip in Travertine Hot Spring for a sunrise soak, while enjoying the warmth of a fire.
Beep Beep Beep Beep
The morning alarm went off, it was time to get up. “Okay, it’s time! Let’s go!” I said.
“UUHHH! Do we have to? It is cold!” Kristin responds.
“You said this was a dream of yours, let’s get it!”
“Okay… will you make coffee?”
“Sadly, we don’t have time.”
“UHHHH”
Kristin enjoys the sunrise view while soaking in Travertine hot spring near Bridgeport, CA. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Even though we both didn’t want to, we crawled out from under the covers and got ready. The van felt very cold! We tried to start the heater, but the propane was out. Starting the van and running the heater, I took down the window coverings.
EVERYTHING WAS FROZEN. The windshield and windows were coated, on the inside, with frost! Sometimes, living vanlife can be difficult. Times like these, you are just camping in a metal tent with a bed. However, the lifestyle has done well for me since 2016, so I am not complaining.
As the windshield melted, we got dressed and mentally prepared for the dip.
Driving a short ways, we were warmed up, but once we parked a little bit of internal regret overtook me. It was going to be cold. The van’s thermostat read 18f outside. While I might be a warm blooded California kid, I think 18f is cold for anyone! Especially knowing you are going to be in a swim suit.
Sucking it up, I put my big boy pants on— mainly to avoid being left behind by Kristin—and head to the hot spring. It was my first time here, I didn’t know what to expect and I was blown away. The landscape was cloaked in a orange glow as the light danced down the mountains and across the fields in the distance. Staring out from the warmths of the hot spring, I was proud that we persevered.
Driving directions to Travertine Hot Springs: Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, CA 93517
Free camping near Travertine Hot Spring in Bridgeport, CA. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Pro Tips when Visiting Travertine:
Free Camping Near Travertine Hot Spring
The land surrounding the thermal springs is Forest Service Land, so you can legally camp for free in any of the pullouts along the back roads. It is primitive camping, with no facilities of any kind, so be prepared to be self-contained. Arrive late afternoon, set up camp, and walk a half-mile for a sunset soak.
Rise Early and Have Travertine to yourself
Rise before daybreak to enjoy the empty pool of your choice before anyone has even turned over in bed. It’ll be all yours for those precious few hours.
Cold Soak and rinse off in clean rivers close by
Make time for a cold soak in any of the nearby rivers (you’ll have to drive) to avoid any issues with bacteria infections. While these are very rare, they are easily avoided with a rinse!
FAQ about travertine hot springs
CAN YOU SWIM IN TRAVERTINE HOT SPRINGS?
Travertine hot springs are a wonderful grouping a naturally occurring hot springs in the Eastern Sierra perfect for soaking and swimming. Some of the pools have been dug out to be made larger, but overall the pools are waist deep and 5-10 feet in diameter. Since there are several pools you can typically find a pool to yourself to swim, or soak, in.
CAN YOU SOAK NAKED IN TRAVERTINE HOT SPRINGS?
When you visit the Travertine Hot Springs in Bridgeport you can soak naked. There will be a mix of clothed and nude soakers, so please be respectful of the company you are in. There is an unspoken ethic, if you are arriving to a pool with clothed people, and you want to soak naked, to ask before stripping naked. This is out of respect. However, if you arrive to a hot spring and have it to yourself, you make the rules!
HOW MANY HOT SPRINGS ARE THERE AT TRAVERTINE HOT SPRINGS?
Travertine Hot Springs has several, 11 pools, that you can soak in. The main pool is immediately in the parking lot, but there are paths which will take you to a grouping of four pools a short walk away. Additionally, there are more pools if you take the path starting behind the bathroom, I like these pools best. In total, I know of 11 pools that are enjoyable to soak in at Travertine Hot Springs.
In the distance while soaking at Travertine you will see the Sawtooth sub-range of the Eastern Sierra mountains. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
If you are up for an adventure, I have heard that there are more pools hidden in the landscape, so if you are up for a challenge, go find one!
ARE TRAVERTINE HOT SPRINGS OPEN DURING THE WINTER?
The Travertine Hot Springs in Bridgeport do not close and remain open for every season. These year round pools are an excelent way to relieve soar muscles after a long day in the mountains. Visiting Travertine Hot Springs during the winter is a great time because you will rarely find other soakers, meaning you will have pool of your choice.
Note: If there is bacteria outbreak, the pools will be closed. This does not happen often.
IS THERE A BATHROOM AT TRAVERTINE HOT SPRINGS?
There is a bathroom at the main parking lot of Travertine Hot Spring. This bathroom is a pit toilet and often has toilet paper. However, I suggest bringing your own toilet paper just in case. There is no way to wash your hands, so bring some hand sanitizer.
Discover More of the Eastern Sierra
How To Pack For Backpacking
The time has come to pack your backpack, hit the trail, and sleep in the dirt. Backpacking is an adventure combining hiking with backcountry camping, so be ready for a deep thigh burn and dirt under your fingernails. Living out of a backpack combined with the lack of conveniences makes backpacking an enjoyable type two activity. In the moment, as you labor up a steep grade, you might question your decision to go on this trip, but as you roast a marshmallow for s’mores and stare out at the Milky Way you’ll cherish those steep grades like a badge of honor. If this is your first backpacking trip, or your 10,000th trip, I promise there will be a nugget of goodness in this article.
Kristin and Abi testing out their sock-hop skills after arriving early to their campsite. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
The time has come to pack your backpack, hit the trail, and sleep in the dirt. Backpacking is an adventure combining hiking with backcountry camping, so be ready for a deep thigh burn and dirt under your fingernails. Living out of a backpack combined with the lack of conveniences makes backpacking an enjoyable type two activity. In the moment, as you labor up a steep grade, you might question your decision to go on this trip, but as you roast a marshmallow for s’mores and stare out at the Milky Way you’ll cherish those steep grades like a badge of honor. If this is your first backpacking trip, or your 10,000th trip, I promise there will be a nugget of goodness in this article.
Dalton warms his hands after a solo night cowboy camping in the Utah desert, coffee soon awaits. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Pick your style: Overnight vs Multiday
Once you know where and when you are going on your backpacking trip, the next step is to decide the style of travel, and comfort, you want while camping in the backcountry. In general, backpacking has two tiers; ultra-light or light. While a few ounces may not seem like much, on a backpacking trip, every ounce counts. The easiest way to decide your style is to select a backpack.
Ultra Light Backpacking and Overnighters (aka light-and-fast)
If I am looking to go ultralight, I’ll bring to a 40-50L backpack, my favorite is the Prospector 50L. Why 40-50L? If I am going ultralight, there is no item in my pack that doesn’t have at least three functions thus my gear can fit in a smaller pack. What I love about the Prospector 50L is the roll top, mesh pockets, and back panel access. As most of my ultralight outing are focused on a peak, or a climb, I appreciate the back panel access to quickly grab climbing gear without creating a yard sale to grab that locking carabiner sitting in the bottom of my pack.
Pros: Lighter, so you can go farther faster, your knees will like you more, you can accomplish a smash and grab mission with a short weather window
Cons: Less frills, you’ll probably eat mostly dehydrated meals, you’ll jump in fewer alpine lakes
Extended Trips and Multidays (aka slow-and-steady)
If I am looking to go the distance, I’ll bring a pack in the 60-65L realm, like the Parkview 63. With the added weight and bulk of the additional gear, I will be moving slower, but I’ll be able to stay on the trail for longer, especially with the added volume of the spindrift layer. The real reason I opt to move slower is to enjoy the place I am visiting with those I love. If I know I want to be more comfortable, eat well, and bring a camp stool. I chose to move slow and steady, so I can be with the people and places I love longer.
Pros: You can jump in all the alpine lakes (no watersheds!), time is on your side to cook better meals, more time with the loved ones in places you love
Cons: A bit heavier, more time between showers
Waking up atop Hourglass arch. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Pick your gear to fit your style
Once you know how you plan to move, your kit is the next key component. So, what are your options? For myself, I typically group my sleeping style as such:
Cowboy Camping
The closest you can get to sleeping in the dirt. Either you know it isn’t going to rain, or you don’t care, so you ditch the tent and sleep in the dirt, maximizing your Milky Way views. Pro Tip, bring a tent footprint to protect your inflatable pad from abrasion.
Solo tent
While cowboy camping is a great way to connect with the dirt, having shelter is essential in the mountains. The Copper Spur HV UL is a great option for solo trips. Pro Tip, you’ll need a bigger pack than you think when traveling solo, I would suggest springing for the Parkview 63L pack so you can make good coffee in the morning!
Sharing a tent:
It might be a little bit stinky as the nylon holds in the warm air generated from our bodies, but on a cold night, sharing a tent can keep you 10+ degrees warmer. One of my favorite parts of sharing a tent among others is that I can pack other luxury items, like my skyline ultralight chair. Pro Tip, if you have extra gear or winter gear, size your tent up to accommodate. I like the Tiger Wall UL3 when looking for extra comfort.
Packing light for the overnight climbing trip ahead. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
10 Questions to Answer Being Heading to The Trail
Do I need a permit to camp or hike throughout my trip? What about a fire permit or backcountry closures?
Where will I get drinking water?
Does my backpack fit correctly? Click HERE for sizing info
Do I have enough breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner, and dessert for this trip?
Have I double-checked that my stove works, I have a lighter, and I have enough fuel to cook my meals?
Have I checked the forecast? What is the weather going to be like while I am out?
Do I have warm layers and rain gear? Click HERE for puffy layers
Do I have the correct sleeping pad and sleeping bag packed? Click HERE for more info
Is there cell service? If not, how will I communicate in case of an emergency and route find?
Have I double checked for first aid, have everything packed, and let someone know my trip plan?
Desiring a casual overnight adventure, Kristin and Dalton packed their backpacks, climbing gear, and dinner for two to climb the South Six Shooter. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
With over 800 nights slept in a tent, I’ve come to find these little tips and tricks help to get started backpacking. When going into the backcountry, having fun and returning safely are always my goal. To do this, having the correct group, gear, and skillset is essential. Even-though I opened this article up by saying backpacking is a type 2 fun, there are several moments of type 1 fun along the trail. Heck, I wouldn’t spend roughly half my year under the stars if it was all type two! So, call your friends, pack your trail mix, and get out into the backcountry. And make sure to brush up on the seven Leave No Trace™ principles before you lose cell service.
Did I Pull an April Fools Joke on Myself?
Two days later, I pedaled away from the hostel the man at the airport had suggested. Winding through the city streets of Christchurch, I was eager to make it to the main road that circles New Zealand’s South Island. Upon arriving at the T, I asked myself, “clockwise or counterclockwise?” For the first time, I had a hunch that I knew what I was doing. Feeling confident, I recall thinking, it’s the second half of summer, I should go south now, so I am in the north for the fall. So, I went right and pedaled along the coast, embracing a freedom that I had never known before.
Only a few days into the trip, I was already blown away by the beauty of New Zealand.
I landed on April 1st with a dream, backpacking equipment, and no idea what I was doing. When I say no idea, I mean a man in the airport lobby walked up to me and said, “Son, you’ve been standing there a while, do you know where you are going tonight? It’s going to be dark soon.”
Surprised by his voice and greener than green, I looked at the man and responded, “I’m going to bike around the country.”
His eyes look around me and in the nicest way possible, he musters up the courage to ask, “Did your bike get lost in route?”
I giggled to myself, I truly had no idea what I had just signed up for, “Nope, I was going to buy one here.”
“You know, all of the stores are closed already, right? You’ll have to get a hostel tonight and then tomorrow get your bike.”
“Okay, that sounds great! Do you know any hostels?”
One of my first nights on the road was spent here, in a storm, on the side of a grassy hill.
Two days later, I pedaled away from the hostel the man at the airport had suggested. Winding through the city streets of Christchurch, I was eager to make it to the main road that circles New Zealand’s South Island. Upon arriving at the T, I asked myself, “clockwise or counterclockwise?” For the first time, I had a hunch that I knew what I was doing. Feeling confident, I recall thinking, it’s the second half of summer, I should go south now, so I am in the north for the fall. So, I went right and pedaled along the coast, embracing a freedom that I had never known before.
Flashback a few weeks, I had graduated early from college, with a BS in Mathematics, but I had no direction. As a kid, I dreamed of seeing the world and being a writer, but, somehow, I studied math. Luckily, I had a professor who took me under his wing and shared travel tale after travel tale. His experiences made him a professor of life, more than a math professor. As I packed my bag, my worried parents barraged me with questions that I did not have answers for. These questions were simple, like; “where do you plan to sleep?” “How much money do you have and is it going to be enough?” “You have never ridden a bike longer than 5 miles, how far do you plan to ride?” All I knew is that I watched a Rocket Power movie about riding bikes in NZ and Professor Klosinski had told me of the natural beauty New Zealand offered.
Standing in front of my trusted steed, Roam’n, I used to cycle around New Zealand's south island.
Armed with a journal, an iPhone (without a data plan), and an overconfident mantra of “I’ll figure it out along the way” I disregarded crazy looks from my family and friends. How hard could riding a bike be? Naïvely, that last question should have been one I asked myself! But, I am glad I didn’t, otherwise, I would not be sharing this story.
Call it beginners luck, but the first two weeks had passed and I had not crashed, nor had I gotten a flat tire. I started to get in the groove and my days, while unplanned, developed a routine. Wake up, eat anything, pack up, ride, eat lunch, talk to myself… A LOT… ride, pitch my tent, read, journal, sleep. Oh yeah, occasionally reference the map that I carried, since I didn’t have GPS. My body was in good shape and to my butt’s surprise, it didn’t get sore! There came a day that I thought to myself, Maybe I have the perfect cycling butt, I never get sore!
As the summer faded into the fall, my dad and brother visited. We packed my bike, that had earned the name Roam’n, into the van they had rented. We drove around the island over 10 days. My wet and stinky self, pissed my dad off from the start. We couldn’t find each other and my sense of time had become non-existent. While a watch was strapped to my wrist, my attachment to social norms had gone out the window. Turns out, I was three hours late. Today, I understand why he was upset, but I was dumbfounded in the moment. As we drove around the island, we created memories. We made many side trips, hiked trails, and, as if I couldn’t get my biking fill, went downhill mountain-biking. Ten days go by quick, but Roam’n and I picked up where we left off.
My dad, brother, and I standing at a road side vista. These are a dime a dozen in New Zealand.
By this time, I had been away from home for over a month. The white line of the road had replaced the black line of the swimming pool, that I had stared at since I was three years old. I did not listen to music nor podcasts, so, I did the unbearable, I learned to sit with myself. When I started the journey, I did not know… well… anything. I was flying by the seat of my pants, without an agenda, only an idea that I honestly didn’t care if I finished because I had tried.
While trying is great, so is finishing, but sometimes you have to ask yourself, Is worth it? Not long after my brother and dad left, things started to break. My back tire had to be completely rebuilt as eleven spokes snapped. I popped two inner-tubes. My panniers were ripping from the constant moisture. Rain became a daily tradition and there was one weekend where I read I sign saying, “Flooding possible, 5 meters of rain expected.” My boots, yes I cycled in mountaineering boots, were sopping wet. I found out the difference between $100 and $600 rain gear is the duration of rain it can repel. I should have sprung for the $600 gear! I got the flu. And to top it all off, I received word from home, that a friend had been diagnosed with cancer and most likely wouldn’t be alive by the time I got home.
Each day and night was different, sleeping next to farms, on beaches, hell, I slept in a sheep shear shed one night! The further I went into the suffer-fest, the greater joy life brought me! People would stop and invite me, sopping wet, into their vans for midday tea and biscuits. I was offered countless hot tubs (but strangely not many couches or showers). Eventually, I made a Dutch friend to cycle with for two days, that was a delight! Ironically, a French couple had hair buzzers and we shaved my shagged head, putting a J and F into the sides to honor my friend and teammate, Julian Fraser. Other amazing acts of kindness included; my rear tire being rebuilt for free, a tip to use rubber gloves to ward off frost-bite, about seven meals, and honey, lots of free honey!
With only a couple of days left, I watched the sunset every night as I made my dinner. This is just one example of what it was like cycling around New Zealand alone.
As struggle was met with kindness, I continued to pedal. The rain never stopped at the end of the trip, but each night I was greeted with a miraculous thunderstorm. Headwinds turned into tailwinds as I rounded the top of the island for my last week of riding. That final stretch I took slow. So slow, I actually ran out of food the night before making it to Greymouth. With a hungry belly, I pedaled my way to a hostel for my third warm shower in two months. My legs burned in pain and I couldn’t sleep, only stretch. While I waited two days for a bus to take me back to Christchurch, I learned how to make bread from a German couple.
I knew my time in New Zealand had come to an end and it was time for me to return to California. While I had been insistently journaling about what I wanted to do in my life for 62 days, I was coming home with no answer. There was this side of me that wanted to return to the pool and attempt to make Olympic Trials for swimming. There was a side of me that wanted to return to school and get a master’s degree to become a teacher. There was another side of me, the one that weighed the heaviest, that told me I needed to go home and make money. Regardless of my choice, there was a pull that I could not resist, no matter how hard I tried, for me to continue to explore. But, what would that look like?
It’s a Micro-Adventure Kind of Season
A micro-adventure is a mindset and physical outing directed to exploring. Since these are small, most micro-adventures will happen in your backyard, wherever that be. Now, some people will be luckier than others because of where they live, but even a city-dweller can have micro-adventures. The goal is to change your perspective on your current life situation and push yourself to go. Most of the time a micro-adventure will leave you asking yourself, “why would I ever do that?” The answer is “because it sounds like fun… kind of.”
Several years ago, as I was diving into the world of adventure, I was introduced to the concept of micro-adventures. Alastair Humphreys is a human of the grandest and smallest adventures out there. I highly recommend checking him out and his book, Micro-Adventures, where coined the term and revamped backyard adventures in the UK. Some of the after-work adventures are silly, meanwhile, some of them are quite the challenge. In the United States, we would call a micro-adventurer a weekend warrior, but there is a difference.
Kristin Riegel enjoying a night under the stars in Joshua Tree National Park, CA. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Micro-Adventurer vs Weekend Warrior
Okay, yes, some of you might say that I am splitting hairs here, but I truly believe there is a difference in the mindset of a micro-adventurer and a weekend warrior. So, what is the difference? A weekend warrior lives for the 57 hours they have from the end of work on Friday until they begin work again on Monday. Meanwhile, a micro-adventurer isn’t afraid to make the most of any opportunity, no matter how small. Heck, you could have a micro-adventure during your lunchtime break if you wanted!
Are you a micro-adventurer or a weekend warrior?
Are you more inclined towards quick escapes or epic expeditions? Here's how to discern if you're a micro-adventurer or a weekend warrior:
Time Frame: Do you prefer short, spontaneous adventures (micro-adventurer) or longer, planned excursions (weekend warrior)?
Distance: Are you drawn to nearby experiences (micro-adventurer) or do you seek remote destinations (weekend warrior)?
Intensity: Do you enjoy moderate challenges (micro-adventurer) or crave extreme adventures (weekend warrior)?
Frequency: Do you seek frequent but brief escapes (micro-adventurer) or plan fewer but more significant trips (weekend warrior)?
Preparation: Are you comfortable with minimal gear and planning (micro-adventurer) or do you thrive on detailed preparations (weekend warrior)?
What is a Micro-Adventure?
A micro-adventure is a mindset and physical outing directed to exploring. Since these are small, most micro-adventures will happen in your backyard, wherever that be. Now, some people will be luckier than others because of where they live, but even a city-dweller can have micro-adventures. The goal is to change your perspective on your current life situation and push yourself to go. Most of the time a micro-adventure will leave you asking yourself, “why would I ever do that?” The answer is “because it sounds like fun… kind of.”
How to Become a Micro-Adventurer?
While having a badge, sticker, or challenge to say “I am a micro-adventurer” would be a great community builder, the fact is, it hasn't happened, yet. Or, maybe the muddy shoes and frizzled hair at work is the badge of honor. Regardless there isn’t glory, nor is there any financial gain, but you will do some pretty fun things! In the beginning, most of your friends will think you are crazy, just embrace the confusion. So, to begin keep your micro-adventures simple. Come up with a micro-adventure, I suggest doing it with a friend and trying it out. Keep it local, keep it simple, keep it fun! Below is a list of micro-adventures for you to try, all of them are accessible in some kind of capacity, but they do require you to get creative… but that is the point of a micro-adventure.
After-work Micro-Adventures
Rappel down a canyon
Ride your bike to the woods
Weekend Micro-Adventures
Paddle down a river with friends
Load up a pack, walk out your front door, and don’t come back until after work on Monday
Head to a lake, or pond, and catch your own food and sleep in a tent
Climb a mountain, sleep on top, come back to work a little bit stinky
Sleeping in tents under the milky-way in the High Sierra Mountains, CA. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Yup, you might seem crazy to your friends when you ask them to join you, but you just might be! Tell your friends about the trip and share the stories you accumulate. Micro-adventures are a reset to the daily grind, an opportunity for you to hit that reset button and lower your stress levels. Sleeping outdoors, under the stars, you’ll have a perspective change. You’ll appreciate your hot shower a little bit more. You’ll realize how easy it is to cook on a stove, with pots, in comparison to roasting a fish over a fire. So, stop waiting and start planning for your after-work adventure tomorrow. Get outside, explore your backyard, and have a blast!
Discover More Micro-Adventures
How to Stay Fit While Living on the Road
While six pack abs and bikini season are always around the corner, van life might prevent you from getting to those goals. Yes, you are closer to access the outdoors if you plan your van trips correctly, however you aren’t going to have much space for working out, especially if the weather does not agree with your routine. If you plan on being a weekend warrior in a van, fitness won’t be a point of topic you’ll stress much about. However, if you decide to commit full time and have aspirations of maintaining your gym-centric body, guess again! With that said, below are five tips to maintain your fitness level while crammed in your tiny home on wheels.
While six pack abs and bikini season are always around the corner, living on the road might prevent you from reaching to those goals. So, how do you maintain your fitness while living on the road? While traveling in a van you are closer to access the outdoors if you plan your van trips correctly, however you aren’t going to have much space for working out, especially if the weather does not agree with your routine. If you plan on being a weekend warrior in a van, fitness won’t be a point of topic you’ll stress much about. However, if you decide to commit full time and have aspirations of maintaining your gym-centric body, guess again! With that said, below are five tips to maintain your fitness while living on the road.
Dalton Johnson does yoga outside of his van at a trailhead near Bishop, CA
Staying fit while living on the road has been a main focus of mine as a travel photographer. After seven years of living on the road, I have tried I have found the best to stay fit is to be active everyday. Setting aside an intentional 30-60 minutes to be active has kept me healthy while living on the road. Being active can vary, but I have found yoga, running, or going to a gym to be the best.
1) Create a stretch/yoga routine
While stretching in your van can be difficult if you don’t have space, there is almost always a park or beach or parking lot to stretch in. For myself, stretching has been the key ingredient to maintaining a healthy body on the road, because I am driving just so dang much! All that driving means LOTS of sitting. So, to counter this, I have dedicated time daily, to loosen up my body.
Some of the stretching areas are the hips and the shoulders. For the most part, these are my high areas of use and abuse, but that comes with the territory of driving, surfing, hiking, and climbing. Also, tossing in a few core exercises have added significant benefit to my life, so maybe thing about that as well.
The best part about yoga is that you really don’t need much:
-Yoga mat (this one is rad! It is made of recycled wetsuits)
-A strap or belt to be lazy while stretching
I also heavily suggest using a foam roller! These are small, easy to use, and you fell AMAZING afterwards!
Click here to check out my yoga YouTube channel called Yoga for Dad’s
Sherman eats a well balanced diet while on a rock climbing trip through Yosemite National Park.
2) Eat mostly plants, avoid processed sugar
Maybe the influence of Micheal Pollen’s book, Omnivore’s Dilemma, had a greater influence than I thought, but pack your fridge, or cooler, with veggies and leave behind the sugar. At first, the added time of eating vegetables was tedious, then I learned about meal prep and life became just that much easier. Just because you live in a van doesn’t mean you can’t live like you live in a home, the van is just a small home.
The biggest difference was in the snack world. Transitioning from potato chips to no-bake protein balls was a game changer. Yes, I do take a day each week to prep some food, but it is worth the time. Letting go of processed foods has helped settle my stomach as well! Here are couple of ideas for you to whip up:
-Tacos… the easy way out, yet still delicious
Check out these cookbooks designed for healthy ideas while living on the road:
Note: I still love sweets and eat them on the daily. I am a total sucker for Oreos! They make me happy and as long as I don’t eat a whole box, I am going to be okay and happier in life.
Elliot bouldering on a V2 high ball in South Lake Tahoe, CA
3) Do something outdoorsy, like; running, hiking, swimming, surfing, climbing, skiing…
Everyone enters van life for their own reasons, however I have come to realize the majority of those I meet are interested in deepening their relationship with the natural world. Typically moving from one national park to the next, those who travel and seek beautiful places are keen to getting outside. One of the best parts of van life, is the access that is provided. You no longer need to go to a national park to see the beauty, you can explore other places, like BLM, Wilderness areas, and so much more. While you do this, you will find an activity that suits your interests the most. That could be surfing, hiking, photography, climbing… the list goes on and on.
Regardless of your interest, if you are getting outside the chances are you are burning calories. As you move your body more often, you will start to find those uphill hikes to be easier. If you are a surfer, or climber, you’ll find that all of these opportunities to practice, you’ll get better. In many ways, this tip is long winded, but the key here is to find something that lights you up and go do it!
Check out some trip reports from my recent travels:
-Lake Tahoe Sisters Link Up (Mount Freel, Jobs Peak, and Jobs Sister) in a day
-Climbing Mount Langley, a California 14,000 foot peak
-Photographing big wave surf spot, Mavericks, from the water
4) Walk to your errands, save gas along the way
The most expensive part of van life is your gas. Moving your rig takes time and fuel, so why not skip it?! Have a bike, a skateboard, or, heck, just walk to where you are going! Not only will you get your steps in the for the day, you will save money, see the neighborhood a little bit different, and help the environment out.
Now, excuses make it easy to hop in the driver seat and motor you way to the grocery, because you can’t carry those groceries back, but you have options. Here are some easy solutions:
-If you don’t have enough hands, bring a backpack
-If it won’t all fit in a backpack, buy less
-If buying less isn’t an option, make two trips
-If you just don’t want to do it, make it a challenge
I’m not saying do this every time. Just do it a couple of times a week, a month, a year. In the end, these are just ideas to get you out and moving your body instead of locking up those hips while sitting in the drivers seat.
Often the best views take a little extra effort to enjoy, so stay fit and go seek wonderful views while living in a van.
5) Have resistance bands for working out, this can easy be done inside of the van
Resistance band workouts were popular during my time in college for rehab, which made me discount them as a viable workout, but that was my mind trapping me. With the right thickness of band, all exercises with enough reps can become a workout. If you are trying to become Arnold Swartzinigger, the bands are not going to be enough, but if you are trying to avoid muscle fatigue and live a healthy life, they are great.
Bands that I use:
-The Roll… great just in case you break a band
-Circular Bands… you don’t need these but they are nice (just tie yours together)
Upper Body Routine:
Three rounds of:
-Internal Rotation (20 Reps per arm)
-External Rotation (20 Reps per arm)
-Rows (20 Reps)
-Biceps curls (20 Reps per arm)
-Strict Press (20 Reps per arm)
-Wrist wriggles (20 Reps per hand)
-Tricep extensions (20 Reps per arm)
I promise, you’ll feel the burn if you have the correct “weight” to your band.
6) Don’t be afraid to stretch in your bed! This might be your largest area.
Getting out of bed is a key to starting the day, yet, in a van your bed might be the largest area that you have to move your body—queue the middle-school giggles—so make use of the space to stretch. In my van, I don’t have enough space to do the pin-wheel stretch nor supine twists on the floor, but I do on the bed. Often, you’ll find me stretching while journaling before bed. I’ve found once I get out of bed, make the bed, getting back into bed to stretch or work, I don’t have the urge to sleep.
Conclusion:
In the end, enjoy your time in a van and try not to stress about your physicality. As you are closer to nature than you have ever been before, take full advantage of the opportunity. Go for walks, go for hikes, enjoy your time with the access to the outdoors, and find what makes you happy. If you are eating mostly plants and being active, you are probably going to be healthy. On the flip side, if you are training for a goal, get after it and understand you can remain fit and train in a van depending on the type of training you need to do. Either way, go have a blast and enjoy van life!
One Week of Van Life in the Eastern Sierra
Upon finishing the week long VLOG challenge, I am very excited to say that I completed the challenge and have been continuing with videos. They are fun to make and share with you all. Providing a glimpse into vanlife, a career of photography, and the long term value of living an engaging life.
Day 1: A crazy rainbow after a mountain storm breaks
It’s not every day you get to watch a storm break over the mountains, a full rainbow, and an epic sunset. I mean, starting the day in Bishop, CA I awoke to rain. At first, I thought the day was going to be a bust, because I didn’t get to climb, but instead it was quite the opposite. I mean, yeah, I didn’t climb, but whatever.
I ran around chasing rainbows with my camera and favorite @tamronusa lenses. I captured a few epic timelapses of the storm breaking, and eventually snapped a few sunset shots in the Alabama hills of Mount Whitney and Lone Pine. What a blessing today turned out to be! Well, I hope you enjoy day three of this vlog. If you like what you see, give me a like or comment. Heck, if you wanna be totally awesome, give this a share on your story and tag me.
Thank you so much for watching! If there is anything specific you want me to share let me know. You can DM me or drop it in the comments below 🤙
In this episode: Storm breaking Trail run Bishop, CA Whitney Portal Drone footage Sunset photos Driving Breakfast @daltonjohnsonmedia
Day 2: How to make the BEST pancakes in a van!
Pancakes!!!
Quite honestly, today was a day of bopping around and making the most of it. This morning was a slow one focused on journaling, business strategy, and photo ideas. From there I finished a blog, drank coffee, stretched, and MADE PANCAKES! I actually went into a deep dive of how to make pancakes my favorite way.
I met up with @andrew__muse and his adorable pup @kickerdogmuse Andrew drove to the Whitney portal from San Diego with a few packages for me from @tamronusa @kleankanteen and @timbersurfco so now we are set to head to Baja!
As the day progressed, I chased those two around in search of photos and epic landscapes. Pretty sure we nailed it. More for you all to watch and see here in the coming days!
Anyways, I hope you have a wonderful evening!
Sleep well and keep being awesome 🤙🤙
day 3: The start to the funniest video I have made to date
Why do we take ourselves so dang serious?! Well, today, I decided to stop! After a sunrise shoot with capitalizing on the alpine glow, @andrew__muse allowed me to suit up and put some creative ideas into practice.
While I still need to edit the video and put out for you all. As well as finish up the shooting, there are still a couple of ideas in the trunk that need to be pulled out. I am already excited for how outlandish this thing is. My guess, I find this funnier than you, but, hey, who is comparing?!
Anyways, we wrapped the rest of the day up with a few fun shoots, took the dirt bike for a ride and did some donuts, and then had a very peaceful and PG photoshoot in a tent.
All in all, today was fun. Lots of content was made, and we just had a great time doing it! I hope you had a fun day 🤙
Shout out to @timbersurfco for getting a board to me quickly before heading to Baja!
day 4: The MOST creative photo portrait session I have had!
Creativity for creativities sake! That was the mantra for todays.
At 5:20 am I awoke and started the day off with a photoshoot in a classic Alabama Hills locations with @andrew__muse
Once back at camp @mindbodywithleah and I put together a photo idea. Brainstorming an idea to try to balance the masculine and feminine.
Around 2:00pm we headed off on a hike to a really sweet location in the mountains that has a bit of cool climbing history to shoot the idea.
All in all, this was a blast to shoot!
Note, while I was shooting stills, Andrew was shooting video. I think he might be making a little cut from this outing as well!
Today is day 6 of my 7 day challenge. If you all have been liking these videos, let me know! Also, if you would like these to continue on, you should let me know as well!
day 5: I did it! One week of daily VLOGS
Well, it is day seven and it looks like I succeeded here! Very stoked to have given this a try and shared with you all along the way.
A fun week and honestly, these little pieces have been very fun to create! On top of that,the daily reflection has made this quite introspective. Life can definitely be fun if you look at the little details.
Heck, getting groceries today was fun and rewarding, especially because I knew I had nothing left to eat but a can of olives 😂
Anyways, I am totally rambling. However, I am thankful for you all! Hope you have had a great week 🤙
day 6: If money was not a thing, what would you be doing everyday?
If money was not a thing, what would you be doing everyday?
As life on the road has become my norm, I fill my days with fun, work, and curiosity. Through these three lenses I make my way through the day, typically finding something amazing I wouldn’t otherwise expect.
Todays gift was @mindbodywithleah taking the time to help me work out some chronic back pain I have had for the past few years. Turns out, my breathing, belly breathing, will be the driving habit to correct the pain.
Learning is cool!
Discover More of the Eastern Sierra
Rock Climbing with Comedian Influencer Beau Martino
After a little mix up, @cbeaumartino and I met up in the buttermilks just outside of Bishop, CA for some climbing. While waiting, the morning was quite productive as I worked on a blog about cool camping spots in the Eastern Sierra.
After a little mix up, @cbeaumartino and I met up in the buttermilks just outside of Bishop, CA for some climbing. While waiting, the morning was quite productive as I worked on a blog about cool camping spots in the Eastern Sierra.
Once Beau arrived, him and I went on a little circuit of V0-V2s and then scrambled the buttermilk scramble. It’s been a little while since I had climbed with Beau, but it’s fun every time! I’m this episode:
Bouldering
Rock climbing in Bishop, CA
Coffee
Van Life
Daily chores
Morning routine
Follow Beau Martino on Instagram!
Discover More of the Eastern Sierra
Considering Van Life? 6 Tips for Van Life Success
Vanlife, trucklife, bikelife, tentlife... all of them have their pros and cons, but the most important aspect is understanding why you do it in the first place. From the outside, a simple life can look like the dream, but there is also a reality that living on the road can be mundane, lonely, and scary. On the flip side, the highs are very high.
Vanlife, trucklife, bikelife, tentlife... all of them have their pros and cons, but the most important aspect is understanding why you do it in the first place. From the outside, a simple life can look like the dream, but there is also a reality that living on the road can be mundane, lonely, and scary. On the flip side, the highs are very high.
If you are considering living on the road for a night, a week, months, forever... Here are a few tips:
1) know why you are doing it
If you can understand why you want to live on the road, then the hours spent alone, wandering, wont hurt as badly. To use an example here, if you have the opportunity to understand your why then you can never get lost. How is that so? Well, if you are feeling lost—which all who live on the road do from time to time—you can circle around to your why and continue on the path. If, at some point, you realize your why is incorrect, that will hurt, but better now than later!
While on a rock climbing road trip to Joshua Tree National Park in California, Kristin enjoys her morning cup of coffee in her Four Wheel Camper adventure mobile. Photograph by Dalton Johnson.
2) find a community
Community is the saving grace. Luckily, almost every gypsy-like outing has a following of some kind. From climbing to kiting to under-water basket weaving, there is a group for you. Heck, just type that into Facebook, I’m sure you can find a group. Even better, I’m sure if you typed in, “Your Favorite Activity around Nearest Largest City” you will find something.
3) make sure to laugh everyday
Have fun! We can definitely get serious, focus a little to much, and get lost in the drive to be on the road. Especially when money gets tight. If you are feeling the pressure of finances, take a step back, take a deep breath, and acknowledge yourself for where you are at. If you don’t like it, start making changes today.
4) allow yourself to be a bit dirty
You are living on the road and most likely are not showering everyday, heck maybe not even once a week! Learn to enjoy this! Please, don’t be stinky while working next to me at a coffee shop, but really, enjoy your time as a digital nomad. Be free of the office, allow yourself to get a little dirty, wear a shirt a few times. Heck, learn how to do the smell check. If a shirt is in question, maybe toss it in the hamper—or get your partner to give it a sniff ;-)
With the backdoors open to ocean, Kristin enjoys the luxury of vanlife living while on a road trip through Baja, Mexico. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
5) always keep an eye on your water
Running out of drinking water is not a good feeling and I do not wish that upon anyone. Water is necessary for us to survive and let’s be honest, most Americans are not resourceful enough to seek out, purify, and store our own water. There are some of us. If you live on the road, you might want to figure out how to do this! But, for most of us, there isn’t a need, so don’t worry about it… until the zombie apocalypse occurs.
For myself, the rule of thumb I have for water is, once I have hit my last five gallons, I look to fill up. Five gallons lasts me roughly two, maybe three days. Usually, I can find a spring or public hose to fill up by that time. If not, there is always the water stations at a grocery store you can use to fill up a jug with water.
6) learn to poop in the woods
Call me crazy if you would like, but this is a skill all those living in a van, in a car, on the road, should be able to do. Now, I am not going to dive into the variety of tactics, nor the poop rating system that outdoor educators use while on course (this is an inside joke for any of you who work for NOLS or Outward Bound), but I will provide some good etiquette:
bring a shovel
dig a hole at least 6 inches deep
burry your poop
put a rock on top of it… if you would like, this is optional
Conclusion
Regardless of your road life vehicle, the freedom associated with living on the road is unparalleled. While times can be difficult, eventually you will find your stride. If you are considering moving into a vehicle, start slow. Consider doing a few weekend car camping trips with friends at first. Eventually, go for a longer road trip solo, or with a loved one. Once you have those under your belt, consider how you will make money to sustain the lifestyle, and then hit the road!
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out via DM on Instagram or through my contact sheet.
Discover more Van life Tips and Tricks
Backpacking Kearsarge Pass
Our thighs were burning as we tromped up Keasarge Pass to gain our first view into Kings Canyon. All three of us have explored different sections of the Eastern Sierra and JMT, but none of us had been to this area. To avoid the burn, we diverted our attention to the "What do you think is over there” game, trying to see who could paint a better picture of what was on the other side of the pass. Turns out, we were all wrong.
Our thighs were burning as we tromped up Keasarge Pass to gain our first view into Kings Canyon. All three of us have explored different sections of the Eastern Sierra and JMT, but none of us had been to this area. To avoid the burn, we diverted our attention to the "What do you think is over there” game, trying to see who could paint a better picture of what was on the other side of the pass. Turns out, we were all wrong.
The route, for those of you curious to do it yourself:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/kearsarge-pass-trail-to-kearsarge-lakes
Trip Report: Mt. Langley
Details:
Peak: Mt. Langley
Rank: 9 in CA
Date: 10/19/18
Start: 07:00
Return: 18:15
Elevation Change: about 7442 ft
Distance: about 18 miles
Route: North East Chute
Class: 2-3
Description:
Start at the trailhead of Tuttle Creek (my van wouldn’t make the entire dirt road, so walked an extra mile to the TH) and follow the trail until it crosses a creek, heading north to Ashram.
Turn south and begin route finding to the chute. You can see a “waterfall” in the distance, which is the base of the chute. The route finding is so so, for people have cairned the way but often intersecting with other paths.
As you begin ascending the chute, which you are not totally aware of doing, you quickly realize you have met the mental crux, a long sandy ascent. Keeping a rock cliff on your left, the east, and the “waterfall” on the right, the west, keep ascending. Once the foliage stops you, cross the spring and continue up and over the rib. Now you are in the chute. Work your way west until you find the dry river bed.
Take the dry river bed up. This is really not a river bed, but water runoff for snowmelt during the spring.
You will come upon a bench, head for the saddle and brave the sand! Continue pushing your way up the chute to the top of the chute.
Congratulations! You are ready to push. You have a nice long walk and can see the summit of Langley. Walk to Diaz Pass trending northwest gradually.
You have two options, Diaz pass or the rocky slope. Both get you to the south slopes. I would suggest Diaz pass unless you are comfortable with class 3+/4 scrambling because the rocky slope sets you up perfectly to send a not-so-obvious route to the summit. From Diaz pass continue walking west until you find a scramble you want to tackle, class 2-4 depending on your choice.
From here work your way to the summit, sign your name in the registry, eat lunch, and head home! Remember, you are only halfway!
The Story (the humanized version of the journey)
Waking up to my alarm at 02:00, I realized that 5 hours of darkness and my insecurity in route finding was not a combination I wished to endure. Resetting my alarm for 04:00 I would begin walking around 05:00 and have 2 hours of headlamp journey.
Turns out I forgot to turn ON my old alarm clock. But the time was correctly set. I awoke to first light around 06:30. Quickly, gargling down my thermos of tea and consuming my overnight oats, I had one last decision, bring the thermos of tea or no? The debate was rooted in the desire for more liquid versus the weight of the 40 oz Hydroflask. I decided to leave the extra liquid and do with my 48 oz of water in my bladder.
Excited to hit the trail, yet burning up in my wardrobe after walking a mile I stripped naked at the TH and work only pants and a sun hoodie in the shaded 40ish degree morning. Now it was send time!
Seeing the Ashram from the trail below I wanted to detour to see a piece of climbing history, but knew I was behind schedule, so I passed.
Now, for all of the trip reports and guide books that say follow the obvious chute, I’ve gotta give you all the middle finger! Yes, the chute is obvious, but that is when there isn’t towering foliage clocking your view of seeing the obvious chute. Route finding is frustrating. Sliding down the hill with each step in the sand, I realize my work is cut out for me. Tired of the sand, I scramble some class 3 slopes to the high point so I can see where I am at. To my surprise, I am headed in the right direction and have made decent progress, despite the copious, conflicting cairns sending all over hill-and-dale! Down-climbing and finding the line I am happy to say I’m ascending the river bed.
The ground was finally solid and I began moving quickly. So quickly I began losing my breath and could feel my heart pulsing through my ears. Taking a seat I caught my breath, allowing my heart rate to decrease. Continually making forward progress, the river bed gave way to sandy slopes. These slopes were the mental crux of the route.
As the sun peaked over the western ridge I headed for the trees to avoid the ever-increasing wind. That was a navigational error! On the bright side, I got a magnificent view of the Comb Ridge. Taking my breath away, I hung out for a bit. So, I guess it was worth it.
Making my way back to the chute, I ascended the second bench. Langley’s summit comes into view. Hunkering behind a boulder and out of the wind I check the time, 10:05.
“Not bad. I’m making progress!” my little pep-talk.
The soil was delightfully packed down, making the mile or so walk along the gat ridge quick. Not to mention a herd of 14 Big Horn sheep prancing ahead of me, their white butts all lined up as they ascended the ridge with Langley’s summit in sight. An image one should endure at some point in their life. Once again I headed a bit far north, this time on purpose to get another view of Comb Ridge. Striking is the size of these four peaks shooting out of the ground.
From here I had to decide. Ascend the ridge to Diaz pass or take the rock scramble in front of me. Greatly disliking the of descending a wee bit to the summit through Dias pass, I headed up. Stopping regularly to catch my breath, this climb might have been the most physically demanding on the route. My hands were clawing up and my jaw was clenching as the cold set in. Reaching the top, I sheltered myself from the wind in order to put on underwear, a fleece top, gloves, and a windbreaker. Noticing to summit form my location I would have to find a line along the south slopes to the summit. Cold and mentally exhausted, I decided to walk west until I could find an obvious line that would go at class 2. It worked! Soon I was on the summit eating lunch and signing the registry.
The descent went quickly, especially down the sandy slopes! The cry creek bed was rough on the knees, but the spring water refill was much needed! I actually finished that second 1.5 L by the timeI reached the ashram. Thankfully I had enough daylight to spare and relished in this modest, rock-building that supposedly housed Warren Harding’s “Low Sierra Eating, Drinking, and Farcing Society”!
Food, tea, and falling asleep by 19:15.
Time log:
07:00 Left van
07:25 Trail Head
07:55 Ashram
10:05 Second Bench (summit in sight)
13:40 Summit
14:10 Left Summit
18:55 Trail Head
18:15 Return to van