July Recap: 3,589 miles, 5 States, 4 National Parks,
The Journey Begins: Fishing on the Yuba River
July kicked off with a sense of adventure and camaraderie as I embarked on a fishing trip to the Yuba River, one of California's hidden gems. Drift boating with my best friend Luke, we immersed ourselves in the serenity of nature, casting lines and sharing stories. The river's gentle currents and the thrill of the catch set a perfect tone for the journey ahead. Did you know that the Yuba River is known for its gold rush history and is a prime spot for salmon and trout fishing? We managed to reel in a couple of beauties, making the start of our trip even more rewarding.
Meeting Martin in Wendover, Utah
The next leg of the trip took me to Wendover, Utah, a city straddling the Utah-Nevada border, where I reunited with Martin. Our destination? The iconic Bonneville Salt Flats, a location famous for land speed records. The expansive white plains offered a surreal canvas for photography, capturing the essence of van life in its most raw and unfiltered form. Fun fact: The Bonneville Salt Flats are so flat and vast that they appear to merge with the sky, creating an incredible optical illusion. Driving across the flats, we felt like we were on another planet, the van’s tires crunching against the salt.
Gypsum, Colorado: BLM Camping and Buffalo Reserves
Our adventure continued as we drove to a Buffalo reserve in Utah to pick up Martin's van. From there, we headed to Gypsum, Colorado, for some BLM camping. The open lands of Gypsum provided a perfect escape, allowing us to connect with nature and enjoy the freedom of dispersed camping. A night with my sister added a touch of family warmth to the journey. Colorado's BLM lands are a camper's paradise, offering stunning views and endless outdoor activities. Gypsum, nestled in the heart of the Rockies, is named after the mineral deposits found in the area and is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Evergreen, Colorado: Adventure Van Expo
Next up was Evergreen, Colorado, for the much-anticipated Adventure Van Expo. The event, bustling with fellow van enthusiasts, offered a glimpse into the latest trends and innovations in the van life community. It was a weekend of networking, learning, and celebrating our shared passion for adventure on wheels. Evergreen, known for its lush forests and picturesque lakes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Expo itself was a treasure trove of ideas, from solar setups to custom builds, sparking inspiration for future modifications to my own van.
Family Time in Colorado Springs
As the expo wrapped up, I made my way to Colorado Springs to stay with my parents. My wife joined us for three nights, turning the visit into a mini family reunion. It was a time to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the comforts of home before hitting the road again. Colorado Springs, home to the stunning Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, offered a mix of natural beauty and family bonding. Driving the scenic Pikes Peak Highway, known as one of the highest roads in the US, was a thrilling experience that added to the adventure.
Family Camping in Durango and Flagstaff
From Colorado Springs, we sprinted to Durango for the first night of family camping. The lush landscapes and serene campsites provided a perfect backdrop for quality family time. Our next stop was Flagstaff, where we paid a heartfelt visit to the grave of my grandparents. This moment of reflection and remembrance was a poignant highlight of the trip. Durango, with its rich history as a mining town, and Flagstaff, gateway to the Grand Canyon, are both steeped in natural and cultural history. The night skies in Flagstaff, designated as an International Dark Sky City, were particularly mesmerizing, perfect for stargazing.
Exploring Horseshoe Bend
Leaving Flagstaff, I drove north towards Utah, making a memorable stop at Horseshoe Bend. The breathtaking view of the Colorado River's meander left me in awe of nature's grandeur. It's moments like these that make the miles worth it, reminding me of the beauty and wonder that lie along the journey. Horseshoe Bend, often dubbed the "east rim of the Grand Canyon," is a geological marvel shaped over millions of years, providing a stunning panoramic view that is a photographer's dream.
Utah: BLM Camping and Fishing with Van Life Friends
In Utah, I reunited with some fellow van life friends for more BLM camping and fishing. The shared experiences and camaraderie of our van life community made this segment of the trip particularly special. We exchanged stories, tips, and laughs around the campfire, strengthening the bonds that unite us as nomads. Utah's BLM lands are renowned for their dramatic landscapes and recreational opportunities. We camped near some lesser-known but equally beautiful spots, adding to the sense of discovery and adventure.
The Journey Home
As the trip drew to a close, I started making my way back, reflecting on the countless memories made over 3,589 miles. The journey through five states and four national parks was more than just a road trip; it was a testament to the joys of exploration, the value of relationships, and the beauty of living life on the road. Each mile told a story, from the coastal cliffs of California to the arid deserts of Utah, weaving a tapestry of unforgettable experiences.
Final Thoughts
This July recap is a snapshot of a month filled with adventure, discovery, and connection. From the tranquil waters of the Yuba River to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Horseshoe Bend, every moment was a reminder of why I embrace the van life. As I look forward to the next journey, I carry with me the memories and lessons of July, ready for whatever the road has in store.
