Welcome to the digital home for all things from Dalton Johnson.
All tagged United States
Living near Lake Tahoe has given me the chance to explore its waters countless times, and I can confidently say it’s a kayaker’s paradise. The combination of pristine waters, dramatic alpine scenery, and hidden gems makes every paddle feel like a new adventure. If you’re planning to kayak Tahoe, here are some of my favorite spots to explore.
Some adventures come from spontaneous ideas, and this was one of them. Kristin and I, both having grown up near Lake Tahoe, realized that despite our roots, we had never spent a full day kayaking its iconic waters. So, we woke up at 3:30 a.m. with a bold plan: hit three stunning kayaking spots in a single day—Emerald Bay, Bonsai Rock, and Zephyr Cove.
When the opportunity to create a documentary about Mount Denali came my way, I had two choices: fly to Alaska or drive. I chose to drive. That decision transformed what could have been a straightforward work trip into an unforgettable adventure—one that tested my limits, deepened my bond with my dad, and left me with memories I’ll carry for the rest of my life.
I have driven to Alaska and back. Each way taught me new lessons about timing, route choices, and personal limits. These tips will help you plan your own road trip with a clear mind and a realistic approach. Whether you’re an experienced road-tripper or embarking on your first major journey, Alaska’s vast wilderness offers lessons you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.
Mount Massive, Colorado’s second-highest peak, is the often overlooked step-sibling to the highest peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert, just across the valley. However, climbing this iconic mountain comes with its challenges, and mistakes can quickly turn an enjoyable trek into a tough lesson. Based on personal experiences, here are the top mistakes to avoid when tackling Mount Massive, so you can have a safer and more rewarding adventure.
Climbing a 14er—a peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet—is a bucket-list adventure for many hikers. However, timing your ascent is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Starting too late can put you at risk of thunderstorms, heat, and other hazards that can turn an enjoyable hike into a dangerous situation. Here’s what you need to know about timing your 14er adventure.
Colorado is home to some of the most iconic 14ers in the United States, and Mount Massive and Mount of the Holy Cross are two standout peaks in the Sawatch Range. If you’re deciding which to climb first, this guide will help you compare the two peaks based on difficulty, scenery, logistics, and the best times to climb.
Reds and oranges filled the sky as the sunrise light reflected off the clouds, a welcome sign some warmth was on the way. This morning in Sedona, Arizona was cold as we hiked to find the Subway Cave, which is said to be the home of a vortex. While I am not totally sure what a vortex is, I wanted to find one. So, down the trail we went.
Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park is a photographer's paradise, offering breathtaking vistas that beckon camera enthusiasts from around the world. However, the eternal debate among photographers remains: sunrise or sunset at Glacier Point?
Both options have their unique charm, and the choice depends on your photography goals and style. In this blog, we'll explore the merits of both sunrise and sunset photography at Glacier Point to help you make an informed decision.
If you're planning a road trip along Highway 395, Convict Lake is a must-see destination. Nestled in the Eastern Sierra, this picturesque lake offers a serene escape with activities that make it worth visiting for at least an afternoon or even longer. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping, or simply taking in stunning mountain views, Convict Lake has something for everyone. Its unique combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and recreational opportunities makes it a destination that should not be overlooked.
Bridgeport, CA is a pass-through town along Highway 395 that’s filled with adventures, if you’re willing to stop. With one overpriced gas station, two coffee shops, a sandwich shop, and a general store that is rarely open, I didn’t think much of this town at first. But over time, a few of my favorite adventures led me to the outskirts of Bridgeport, CA, and I discovered it has much more to offer than meets the eye. This town is packed with activities like kayaking, rock climbing, hot spring soaking, backcountry skiing, camping, stargazing, and so much more. Below are just a handful of reasons to stop in Bridgeport, CA while road-tripping Highway 395.
Winter in Sedona is a magical time that combines stunning landscapes with fewer crowds and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you're drawn by the allure of Sedona's famous red rocks or the chance to explore the town's unique cultural vibe, winter is a fantastic season to visit.
Sedona is a city I have returned to several times. I am not sure what exactly draws me back to this town of red dirt, but I find myself here at least once a year. On a recent visit, I hiked the Seven Sacred Pools just after a rain and continued my hike onward to the Soldier Pass Cave. After clinging for dear life on the side of a muddy hill, I finally made it to this cave that everyone rants and raves about on social media and Reddit threads. While I am typically not one to seek out social media spots, Soldier Pass Cave caught my eye. Its stunning formation and the challenge it offers make it a bucket-list hike for anyone visiting Sedona.
Mammoth Lakes, California, is a destination I return to time and again. Tucked along Highway 395, it offers a perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery. With its natural hot springs scattered across the rugged landscape, Mammoth Lakes has become my favorite place to unwind after a day of exploring Yosemite, skiing at Mammoth Mountain, or adventuring through the Sierra wilderness.
Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the United States. At sunrise, this stunning vista offers photographers and nature lovers a magical experience as the first light of day illuminates the grandeur of Yosemite Valley. If you're planning a visit to catch the sunrise at Tunnel View, here are 15 things you should know to make the most of your experience.
Located in the Inyo National Forest, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is a natural wonder that attracts adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts year-round. If you're planning a trip to this hot spring, you're in for a treat! In this guide, we'll give you everything you need to know about visiting Wild Willy’s Hot Springs near Mammoth.
Camping at Kenai Lake gave us the perfect reset after two intense weeks of road-tripping in our van around Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Kristin and I were tired—physically and mentally—and in desperate need of a place to park, relax, and recharge. When we stumbled upon a camping spot on iOverlander right on the edge of Kenai Lake, we knew we’d found our answer.
When Kristin and I decided to road trip from California to Colorado to climb all the Sawatch 14ers, we had no idea the challenges that awaited us. Starting north to south, Mount of the Holy Cross was our first peak—a trial by fire for Kristin’s first 14er and a humbling reminder of the demands of high-altitude climbs for me.
