Travel, CaliforniaKimberly ThorsellFebruary 08, 2017California, Joshua Tree, Desert, Travel, Day Trip, Gypsy Wagon, Cactus, Sunset, Parks

CA - Joshua Tree

Travel, CaliforniaKimberly ThorsellFebruary 08, 2017California, Joshua Tree, Desert, Travel, Day Trip, Gypsy Wagon, Cactus, Sunset, Parks

The arid and barren landscapes of California Deserts easily captivate the soul.

The Gypsy Wagon - Joshua Tree National Park, CA

2017 is already one for the books dear friends. At the end of January I decided to pack up my life into the back of my trusty Acura, hit the road, and move my chilly butt from frozen Portland, Oregon down to warm Southern California to "America's Finest City" a.k.a San Diego, California. Shout out to my boyfriend for driving the entire 18 hours of the road trip while I curled up in the passenger seat.

I've only been here one week and have already fallen in love with the palms, succulents, beaches, and deserts here.

Side note: I'm now obsessed and fascinated by succulents.

Not to waste any time, we spent my first weekend in SoCal at Joshua Tree National Park. Even though it was night by the time we arrived, the drive was incredible. We watched as the sun set and painted beautiful rainbow pink tangerine skies across the horizon. And once darkness set in, stars lit up the sky brighter than I'd ever seen.

We stayed at The Gypsy Wagon found via AirBnb. It's the perfect off-the-grid getaway for a wandering soul.

The Gypsy Wagon Interior - Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Just check out that loft bed guys! The place was so thoughtfully furnished - I really appreciate the attention to every little bohemian detail that Venture Yours put into crafting this space.

"Quiet the mind and the soul will speak"

We spent the weekend trekking through the rocky terrain and climbing to the highest points we could leap to. The only way to experience this place is on foot, up close, and in-person. Viewing the park from a car speeding by would be a crime. I only wish we'd had the chance to see more of the park - its just so damn big. We'll definitely be returning soon.

Yeah, don't be fooled by that smile. About .2 seconds after this was taken I realized I was standing in a death trap.

Don't be fooled by this cactus' cute and fuzzy appearance - or danger fluffs as I call them. I swear coming within an inch of them causes them to burrow deep into your skin. Ouch. Guess I'm not quite used to the local flora yet #PNWproblems