Getting Ready

 

While this image is from somewhere in Montana, it will be similar to the some of the views I anticipate while on this great adventure.  I have done many road trips and enjoyed "car camping" over lengthy stays in US National Parks throughout the country.  But nothing will compare to what I anticipate will come over the next month or so.  The American SW desert is unlike so much of the rest of the country and I can't wait to be there!

I'm just about a week from leaving Milwaukee for points south and west.  My roughed out itinerary covers some 25 (give or take) US National Park Service sites, plus several state parks as I anticipate traveling around 6,000 miles through 12+ states.  This is a part of the United States I haven't explored so there will be a lot of new first-time experiences.

Death Valley NP 2001

I start this blog today in anticipation . . . as I set the stage for a wonderful odyssey . . . time for self reflection and enjoying the great outdoors.  There will also be time for friends along the way and to make some shared memories.

As much as I have thought about the great American Southwest, I have envisioned those who have gone before me.  The native people of this land . . . and the settlers who expanded into their homeland.  As with past road trips, I embrace the opportunity to learn about the people,  culture and history of a largely bygone era.

I am also looking forward to the desert flora & fauna. Springtime should be in full bloom at lower elevations, with the mountains still covered in snow. I expect the outdoor temperature ranging from the low/mid 30's to perhaps as high 90°F!  It's truly a packing challenge when considering the layers necessary to stay warm (and dry) while also protecting exposed skin from the blistering sun.

Zion NP 2001

Since I will mostly be camping and living off the grid for much of my travels, there will be limited opportunities along the way to share my adventure here in this blog . . . but I do plan on sharing when I can.  

Until then, I thank my family and friends for their support and encourage you all to follow along with me on my personal Facebook page.  I'm sure I will be able to post some photos from my mobile phone.