If you’ve ever tried camping at Joshua Tree National Park, you know how competitive it can be to snag a campsite. With limited spaces at popular spots like Hidden Valley Campground and Jumbo Rocks, visitors often face the disappointment of finding every site full, even with early arrival and perfect timing. After years of visiting Joshua Tree for climbing and photography, I’ve learned that camping near the park doesn’t have to be this frustrating. There’s a hidden gem that few people seem to be talking about: the free Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land just outside the park.
In the heart of one of America's most iconic national parks, a natural phenomenon known as the Yosemite Firefall awaits those seeking to capture its breathtaking beauty. This awe-inspiring event is a testament to the wonders of nature as a sliver of sunset light casts a lava-red glow upon a thin stream of water plummeting off El Capitan. While it may not involve actual flames, it's a mesmerizing illusion of fire that graces Yosemite's Horsetail Falls every year in February.
Capturing moments in a frame is an art, and every photographer deserves tools that enhance their creative journey. Whether you're shopping for a novice shutterbug or a seasoned pro, this gift guide covers a spectrum of essentials, from cutting-edge camera gear to educational resources.
Living on the road isn't for the faint of heart and, despite what social media shows, vanlifing can be hard on the body and mind. Yet, there are a few gifts that make road trips and vanlife that much more, as we should say, easy-going. Below is a complete list of gifts that any vanlifer or road tripper would be excited to receive.
If you are searching for a gift for a vanlifer, or an avid road tripper, look no further. We have complied over 50 items to select from broken down into a variety of categories and price ranges. If that is a little overwhelming, start with the Table of Contents and navigate around.
Emerald Bay, a stunning destination in Lake Tahoe, sits among the Sierra Nevada Mountains with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes, and captivating history. This enchanting bay draws visitors from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what you can look forward to.
There is no better place to visit for an adventure than Yosemite National Park. A bold statement no doubt, but here’s why? From jaw dropping views to rock climbing to hiking to backpacking to skiing to photography, Yosemite is the perfect place to immerse yourself in raw nature. These seemingly unlimited options lead to one main issue, paralysis by analysis. Meaning, there is so much to do in Yosemite knowing where to begin is a challenge.
Few road trips start as grand as this one, but our road trip, in search of fall colors, was going to be different.
Starting at Lake Tahoe’s iconic Emerald Bay on a crisp morning, the Rivian R1S had the seats down and was loaded to the brim with camera gear, dog toys, suitcases, snacks, and hiking gear. Kristin, Chestnut (our dog), and myself were in for an adventure of a lifetime. Seeking fall colors throughout Northern California, we had planned a week long road trip looping from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park back to our home in Lake Tahoe via as many backroads as possible.
Capturing the mesmerizing Yosemite Firefall in 2024 is a photography dream come true as the lava-like waterfall glows in the sunset light. However, to make the most of this incredible experience, it's crucial to be prepared. If you have never been to Yosemite Valley in the winter, planning is going to be key as weather changes quickly, sometimes permits are required, and knowing where to point your camera can always be overwhelming in this awe-inspiring landscape.
My phone binged with an alert from Aurora, an app I had downloaded when I started chasing the Northern Lights in 2023. The message read, “Do to high aurora activity, it might possible to see the aurora in your location right now.” However, since it was 2 pm in the afternoon and the skies were cloudy I knew it wasn’t going to happen, but the alert made me ask the questions; If I could see the aurora tonight in Lake Tahoe, CA where would I want to see it? Could I photograph it?
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southeastern California just outside of San Diego, is a real life Doctor Seuss landscape calling hikers, rock climbers, photographer, stargazers, movie stars, yogis, and, well, just about everyone. With its otherworldly landscapes, granite rock formations, legends of giants sloths, and a forest of iconic Joshua Trees, this desert oasis offers a breathtaking experience year-round. However, the best time to visit Joshua Tree depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. So, we will explore the different seasons and what they offer to help you plan your perfect trip to this remarkable desert oasis.
However, the best time to visit Joshua Tree depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. In this seasonal guide, we will explore the different seasons and what they offer to help you plan your perfect trip to this remarkable desert gem.
In a bold and emotionally charged endeavor, renowned American ski mountaineer Jim Morrison, along with acclaimed filmmaker Jimmy Chin, is set to tackle one of the most challenging ski descents on Mount Everest: the Hornbein Couloir. This ambitious project, part of a multi-million dollar initiative funded by the National Geographic Society and The North Face, aims to pay tribute to Morrison’s late partner, Hilaree Nelson, who tragically died attempting a similar feat on Mount Manaslu in 2022.
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have captured the imagination of skywatchers for centuries. Recently, many have noticed these vibrant lights seem brighter and more frequent than usual. To understand why, we need to dive into the science behind the Northern Lights and the natural cycles that influence their visibility.
Welcome to another episode of The Gear Room where we introduce you to a wide variety of outdoor gear that you probably didn't know about. In this episode we go over three pieces of gear; a running vest, a book, and a camera lens. Watch the video and check out the written reviews below:
Stargazing is a captivating way to connect with the cosmos and explore the wonders of the night sky. Whether you're a newcomer to the night sky or looking to enhance your celestial observations, these 12 pro tips will help you make the most of your stargazing experience. From understanding basic astronomical concepts to selecting the best viewing locations, these tips will guide you as you embark on your journey through the stars.
Not too long ago, the incessant drone noise in the wilderness left me with a ringing in my ears and a distaste for the intrusive devices. However, I took an unexpected turn in my attitude towards drones when I decided to get one myself. I morphed from a critic into that person launching a drone into the air during my travels. Why? Because curiosity is a potent force when it comes to exploring new landscapes.
Are you tired of the 9-to-5 grind, yearning for adventure and the freedom to explore the world on your own terms? If the idea of becoming a full-time traveler is calling to you, you're not alone. More and more people are embracing the nomadic lifestyle, trading cubicles for sunsets, and routines for new horizons. While it may seem like a dream, it's entirely possible with the right approach. Here are four tips to help you on your journey to becoming a full-time traveler.
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel is back and better than ever, making a triumphant return after a one-year hiatus to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this iconic travel brand. This annual bestseller is a must-have for wanderlust enthusiasts, providing a roadmap to the most exciting and captivating destinations around the globe. With 2024 just around the corner, this edition promises to be a source of inspiration and discovery for every type of traveler.
Travel is often regarded as a leisure activity, called vacation, that serves as a chance to escape the routines of daily life and experience new destinations. But, what if it didn't? Instead, what if you took it as an opportunity to be your classroom? A dynamic classroom that offers valuable lessons, enriching experiences, and personal growth. With eight years of endless travel under my belt, I wanted to take this opportunity to explore how travel can be a classroom where one gains real life insights into history, culture, geography, and oneself.
