Welcome to the digital home for all things from Dalton Johnson.
In the ever-changing landscape of adventure travel, where the open road calls and exploration becomes a way of life, you have two options while living on the road: van life or RV life. Growing up as a kid, I spent every holiday in an RV somewhere around the United States or Mexico, but when I graduated college, reality slapped me in the face that living solo in an RV was, well, extra. I didn’t need all that space, so, I built out my own van and lived full-time on the road for seven years. Now, however, I have a committed girlfriend and dog, so van life isn’t ideal anymore.
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?
I got thinking…
Stretching from the Mexican to Canadian border, the Pacific Coast Highway spans the entire length of the United States west coast and is one of the great American road trips. With just over 1,650 miles filled with breathtaking coastal views, often glorified in surf media, and some of the cutest towns in America, it’s no wonder this the Pacific Coast Highway is calling the names of all those whom live van life. Yet, who will answer the call? Maybe, not enough. However, for those who road trip along the kinda terrifying, winding, two-lane road of the PCH, memories from a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will leave you reminiscing on the grandeur of this van life road trip. So, click that seat belt and continue reading about why you should drive your van the entire length of Pacific Coast Highway.
iKamper, known for its innovative rooftop tents and adventure gear, has just redefined overlanding with the launch of its Raconteur Rack Series. Designed to provide a rock-solid foundation for outdoor exploration, the Raconteur racks are overbuilt and optimized for durability, strength, and functionality. If you’re serious about overland adventures, this rack system might be the missing piece for your rig.
Travel is meant to be exciting, a way to explore new cultures, sights, and experiences that expand your worldview and create lasting memories. However, the trend of overplanning vacations is leading many travelers down the path of travel fatigue. If you’ve ever come home from a trip feeling more exhausted than when you left, you might be familiar with this. While it’s natural to want to make the most of your time away, packing your schedule too tightly can lead to burnout, overstimulation, and even a sense of dissatisfaction with your experience.
The rugged cliffs of California’s Central Coast and the vast Pacific Ocean define the Big Sur area as a destination calling hikers, road trippers, and photographers with its dramatic landscapes, unspoiled wilderness, and stunning views. With towering redwoods, rocky beaches, and scenic highway, Big Sur feels like a place where nature rules. If it’s your first visit to this wild stretch of coastline, you’ll be in awe of the sheer beauty and diverse outdoor activities available. Whether you’re hiking along coastal cliffs, standing in awe of McWay Falls, or simply soaking in the sunset at Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur is a place you won’t forget. Here's what you should do to experience the magic of Big Sur like a seasoned adventurer.
As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep through California, Big Sur transforms into a breathtaking destination to experience the beauty of fall. With vibrant coastal colors, cooler temperatures, and seasonal festivities, it’s the perfect time to explore this stunning stretch of the Pacific coast. Whether you're here for a quiet retreat or thrilling adventures, Big Sur offers the ultimate fall experience. Here’s why Post Ranch Inn should be your home base, along with must-visit spots and activities to make your trip unforgettable.
Reno Tahoe is transforming into a spooky wonderland this Halloween, offering a wide range of thrilling events, from costume-filled bar crawls to terrifying haunted attractions. Known for its unique mix of eerie fun and family-friendly activities, the region has something to offer for visitors of all ages.
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.
Joshua Tree National Park is a unique desert wonderland that enchants visitors with its striking landscapes, rugged rock formations, and iconic Joshua Trees. Located at the junction of the Mojave and Colorado deserts in Southern California, this vast and arid park offers a wealth of adventure for those seeking to experience nature in its purest form. Whether you're into hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, or simply soaking up the raw beauty of the desert, Joshua Tree provides a multitude of outdoor activities. This guide will help you make the most of your first visit, with the best adventures and tips to navigate the park.
Leatherman, renowned for its multi-tools and innovative designs, has announced its latest limited-edition tool under the brand's skunkworks-style Garage initiative. The new release, dubbed GARAGE BATCH #007: MALLOY SPECIAL ($300), is inspired by the adventurous lifestyle of the iconic Malloy brothers—Chris, Keith, and Dan—known for their contributions to surf, film, and creative culture.
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.
Chris Sharma, one of the most iconic figures in rock climbing, stunned the climbing community by securing second place at the North American Cup Series. This marks a surprising return to competitive climbing for the 43-year-old legend, who shared the podium with athletes nearly two decades younger, raising the question: Is Chris Sharma making a comeback in the competitive scene?
If you're a fan of camping with a touch of style, DoD Outdoors has just released a range of gear that’s set to change your entire outdoor experience. From innovative tent designs to comfortable seating and a kitchen setup that'll make cooking in the wild a breeze, DoD's latest offerings promise to bring more comfort and flair to your campsite. Here's a closer look at three standout pieces of gear that will take your outdoor adventures to the next level.
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.
When it comes to everyday carry (EDC), having a reliable, high-quality knife in your pocket can make all the difference. Whether you’re tackling a quick fix around the house, heading into the great outdoors, or just getting through your daily tasks, Case Knives have you covered. Known for their craftsmanship and durability, Case Knives offer a perfect balance of form and function. Here’s a look at three standout options that will elevate your EDC game.
When you're ready to hit a new surf spot, you need gear that's as versatile and tough as you are. Enter the Explorer Backpack and Bossa Boardshort from Orca – two essentials that make chasing those epic moments feel effortless. Here's why they're the newest additions you’ll want in your surf lineup.