America's Best Idea

Joshua Tree National Park

In the heart of the California desert, Joshua Tree National Park held a world of wonder waiting to be discovered. For years, my family had spent sweltering summers in Palm Desert, yet we had never ventured into the local national park. It wasn't until my 30th birthday in 2008 that I embarked on exploring this park.

Eager and equipped with our climbing gear, Tim and I embarked on our adventure to uncover the hidden treasures of Joshua Tree. The challenging quartz monzonite rocks we scaled proved relentless, their rugged surfaces taking a toll on our hands. Yet, the reward awaiting us at the summit made every scrape worthwhile. The landscape behind us resembled flowing wet sand, slipping through one's fingers and forming mesmerizing mounds. As we hung from the peak of our route, a gentle breeze caressed us, and the silence was so profound that you could hear the faintest sound, like a pin drop. It was a moment of utter peace and serenity.

As I study the Joshua Trees, I'm instantly reminded of Dr. Seuss's The Lorax. It's quite clear to me that these solitary-trunked Joshua Trees, with their distinctive branching forms that stretch skyward, bear a charming resemblance to the whimsical Truffula Trees. The desert's vegetation has always held a special allure for me, from the long and tall ocotillo plants to the diverse cacti, and the occasional tumbleweed that graces the landscape. This connection between the desert's wonders and Dr. Seuss's imagination adds a touch of enchantment to the stark beauty of this park.

As the years rolled by and after a few more trips to Joshua Tree, it was the year 2020 that truly made a lasting impression. That year, my mom joined me for a visit to the park. Just outside the park, we treated ourselves to a classic cheeseburger and fries from Pappy and Harriet's and dined in our car because of the pandemic. With our appetites fully satisfied, we set off on a scenic drive to Keys View, ready to watch the sunset. Keys View stands as the highest point in the park accessible by car, situated at an elevation of 5,185 feet.

The wind made it frigid at the higher elevation, and we were grateful for our face masks, as they kept our faces warm. As the sun gracefully dipped behind Mount San Jacinto, it cast a golden glow upon the mountain range. I couldn't help but admire the majesty of that peak, knowing that someday, I'd stand at its summit.

As we made our way down from Keys View, the desert moon made its grand entrance. It was the last full moon of 2020, known as the Cold Moon, and it rose with a stunning vibrancy. I skillfully captured the moon's ascent, set against the backdrop of a bent-over Joshua tree's silhouette. This moment was a reminder of the full moon's symbol of fullness and completion. And as the year came to a close, the Cold Moon stopped me in my tracks, hand over my heart, filled with so much gratitude; it was the perfect ending to the year.

This place, where serenity and adventure coexist, is truly special. Whether you're drawn to the distant mountain peaks, captivated by the park's unique rock formations, or the distinctive charm of the Joshua Trees, there's an adventure for everyone, from peaceful drives to thrilling hikes and even live music at Pappy and Harriet's. It's a place that always amazes, and I'm grateful it's so close to our home.