Joshua Tree Escape
One of my favorite quick little getaway spots is Joshua Tree. As much as I love LA, it's always nice to have a little break from the stress of city life, lights, and action. It's only a 2.5 half hour drive (w/o traffic) and it definitely feels as though you are in a different world. I've been a total of 4 times now and I have loved it every single time. Each time has been a different experience. New trails are discovered. Weather changes create different breathtaking views. Sunrises and sunsets are never the same. This time, I had the opportunity to bring 3 of my friends on a lovely girls' weekend trip. Out of our group, I was the only one who had ever been so I was a little nervous that I set high expectations for them.
We rented an Airbnb outside the national park, which I have done for all my visits here. Although a lot of people like to camp in the park. All of the houses I have rented in Joshua Tree have been really cute with very distinct decor and great outdoor space. On our first night, we had dinner at the saloon down the street from the house. That next morning, we cooked breakfast and enjoyed it outside on the patio underneath the sun, breathing in the fresh morning air. We took some amazing pictures in the park, went on several scenic hikes, enjoyed bubbles and a charcuterie board while watching the sunset, and stargazed at night. We had pizza and wine for dinner and watched movies before bed. On our last day, we woke up at 4:30am to watch the sunrise in the park. Can you remember when you last scheduled time to watch the sunrise or sunset?
I had the best time on this girls' trip this weekend! Joshua Tree is one of my favorite places and I was so happy to have been able to share the experience with my closest friends. There is a very unusual type of beauty and feeling of isolation that is formed from the desert landscape, giant rock formations, and the shape of the iconic Joshua Trees. The peacefulness here provides space for rejuvenation, relaxation, and self-reflection. If you haven't visited Joshua Tree yet, I highly recommend it for your next micro-adventure. Not too far, inexpensive, and probably very different from your usual weekend trip ideas. If you need any help planning your visit, let me know!