I didn’t grow up going to National Parks–and to be honest, I didn’t take my sons to National Parks either. But somehow, weirdly enough, I became a hiker after my kids left home.

I think it’s photography that turned me on to hiking. When I decided to take a photo every day, I needed to actively seek out interesting things to photograph. That led me to spend lots of time at our local beaches…and to somehow become interested in exploring other natural spaces…including National Parks.

At this point I have been to a number of National Parks–in my state and far beyond. I’ve been to some once and to others multiple times. So when I had the opportunity to visit Joshua Tree on Saturday, I was all in!

It’s a good 3+ hour drive from home, so making the trip from Palm Springs shortened the commute by more than 2 hours–making a day trip reasonable.

I was somewhat optimistically hoping for a super bloom (I did visit during a super bloom a few years back), but it’s a bit early and a bit chilly for the blooms yet. Instead we found some short hikes and headed off to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

Joshua Tree is a place where rock climbers gather, testing their skills on nature’s beautiful rock formations. I was mesmerized as I watched climbers with ropes navigate up the sides of giant boulders. They worked in teams, searching for toe holds and crevices as they pulled their bodies up inch by inch. And of course, I had to take photos along the way.

Thank goodness for the little girl who noticed the snake I almost stepped on! Look at the snake she called, and a I turned around to see a snake just a short distance from me. Luckily it was a desert rosy boa on a slow (it was still chilly out) meander across the trail. We all enjoyed the sight and the photo op before continuing on our way.

But when in Joshua Tree, the highlight is always the Joshua trees. The rain this year and last has been good for them. They are looking green and happy–especially compared to the visit during the extreme drought when they were not looking so good. These trees are interesting, somehow a cross between cactus and tree. The park looked almost like a forest, with Joshua’s spotting the high desert environment.

Do you have a favorite National Park? Maybe some other beautiful natural space I really shouldn’t miss? I appreciate any recommendations.

If you get a chance, take a trip to Joshua Tree. It’s totally worth it!