When I built my content calendar for 2020 back in December of 2019, I fully expected to name the Pacific Crest Trail as my favorite hike of the year. Thanks to COVID-19 and its ability to destroy the best-laid plans, my expectations were thrown out the window. Instead, I was left with this trail and a moment in time when I thought everything would be different. As I reread this piece, I see a man sure of himself and excited for the future. Despite all the disappointment of 2020, I would love to get back this feeling!

Last Practice Hike

The California Riding and Hiking Trail inside Joshua Tree National Park was my final overnight practice hike before the Pacific Crest Trail. I specifically chose this trail for a few reasons: Joshua Tree is where I fell in love with desert hiking, this is one of the few places where you can camp overnight in February in southern California, and knowing how much Joshua Tree means to me, I always knew this would be my final adventure before the PCT.

Friends and a Campfire

I so dearly appreciate the simplicity of gathering with dear friends around a campfire. Tents are erected. Food is warming. Drinks are being passed in an irregular circle. The conversation begins on a topic and by bedtime, it has arrived somewhere completely different. Usually, you are out of cellphone range, so distractions are few. Life is slower and, for a moment, you are free to be yourself without conditions and circumstances. You are gathered with friends on a journey you will never forget.

Betrayed by the Map

We hiked the final third of the California Riding and Hiking Trail. We originally intended to hike ten miles on the trail, camp, and then hike back to the car. Sitting around the campfire, we decided to hike to the end of the trail and hitch back to the car. The next morning, after a windswept night, we started hiking. Following the posted trail map and our own downloaded versions, we arrived at what we thought was the end. Reading the trail notes, we knew things would get confusing, but we had no way of knowing how off track we would get. Hours later, we found ourselves on a road walk back to the main gate of the park. As we waited for a hitch, I could only shake my head and laugh. On many occasions, I have found myself betrayed by a trail map. At the moment, it is frustrating, but it never ruins the journey.

Backcountry

Most people who visit Joshua Tree National Park never wander far from the main roadside attractions. This is a shame because they have no idea what they are missing. Hidden in the backcountry is wonderful variety, sweeping vistas, and challenging terrain. On a couple of trips, I have found myself lucky enough to explore these trails off the beaten path. Without a doubt, they have become some of my favorite places to visit in Joshua Tree.

This Special Place  

I have written thousands of words about Joshua Tree and will more than likely dedicate countless more. I have been lucky enough to visit 13 national parks and I know this much is true. Joshua Tree is a special place. It contains all the mystery reserved in the majesty of the desert. It seems designed but gains mystery when you realize time and forces of nature shaped the landscape. It humbles. It enthralls. It encapsulates everything I love about nature. It continues to reveal itself to me long after I have driven away. It a special place and worth saving.

Be good to each other,

 Nathan 

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