Life Round Two: Part 1 - 2023 Spring Western US adventure

Click here Part 2 - 2023 Spring Western US adventure - Nevada, Arizona, Utah

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Part 1 - 2023 Spring Western US adventure

Hi, in case you don’t know me I’ll give a little background. My name is Deb and my husband is Craig. We both love to travel out into the desert and have done so for many years. We often travel out to Utah and consider it one of our favorite places. Back in 2021, when I finally retired allowing us to have more time to explore beyond Utah and for longer durations.

I started this blog as a way to document our travels. Life Round Two just speaks to the second half (post working) of our lives. I hope that I can look back on this travel log when I’m old and more settled and appreciate the fun times that we had visiting and exploring the beautiful Mid-West and beyond.

During this trip we decided to allow two months to explore Utah, Montana, Wyoming, Washington, and Oregon. I know, not enough time really but it’s a good chunk of time and there are still obligations at home.

The first few legs of our trip below takes us to Los Padres National Forest, Tehachapi Mountain Park, and finally Hole in the Wall within the Mojave Natural Preserve. The map below shows our current path.

Los Padres National Forest

We spent several days at Los Padres National Forest. We met up with friends Kristin and Mark and had a wonderful time hiking, climbing, and enjoying this beautiful area. We hiked out among the old oak trees and enjoyed watching Kristin and Mark cool off in the river. As usual this area didn't disappoint with its meadows full of wildflowers. Although there weren't any Lupin this year (strange) there were tons of other brightly colored flowers.

Blue Dicks flower

Fields of beautiful yellow flowers

Mark, Kristin, me (Deb), and Craig

Where The Locals Go

After visiting family in Santa Maria, we headed East to Tehachapi Mountain pass. Tehachapi is at 3,970' feet and runs between Bakersfield and Barstow CA. I never thought much about the place other than a road that will get me over the mountains and to the desert. It's a welcome escape from the heat in the valley. Tehachapi Mountain Park, a beautiful wooded area with ample dry camping and beautiful mountain views. We were there on the weekend so it was a little busy with families and (what appeared to be) school groups but otherwise a good stopping point.

Hole in the Wall (Mojave National Preserve

What a great find! The 20 mile drive (from the main road) is worth it. This area is remote and beautifully rugged. Hole-in-the-Wall was created millions of years ago when a nearby volcano erupted, covering the area with a mixture of gas and ash. The ash cooled and the gas dissipated, leaving behind the porous holes in the walls. There aren't a ton of trails but enough to keep you busy for a few days. Off trail travel is also OK but beware that this area has quite a bit of wildlife including the Mojave Green Snake that has a nasty venom.

That's all for now. We'll stay here for a few more days then onto the next adventure somewhere in Utah. In the mean time please enjoy the photos.

Getting Artsy