2024 Travel Recap: Exploring Texas

Texas: Adventures in the Guadalupe Mountains and Beyond

Texas isn’t just about big cities and vast plains—it’s home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. My time in the Guadalupe Mountains was a reminder of just how wild and rugged the state can be. From colorful canyons to breathtaking sunsets, the highlights of my trip were filled with jaw-dropping beauty.

McKittrick Canyon and Devil’s Hall – Fall Colors at Their Peak

I kicked off my exploration in the Guadalupe Mountains with a hike through McKittrick Canyon, where the fall colors were at their peak. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the canyon’s trees stood in stark contrast to the rocky desert landscape, creating a surreal scene. I spent hours wandering through this stunning stretch of wilderness, soaking in the colors and the serenity.

Afterward, I hiked to Devil’s Hall, another must-see spot in the park. The trail through the canyon opened up to an otherworldly landscape with narrow rock corridors and towering cliffs. It felt like stepping into a natural cathedral, with every turn revealing another breathtaking view.

Guadalupe Peak – Sunset from the Top

The next day, I set my sights on summiting Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. The hike to the top was challenging but worth every step. Reaching the summit for sunset was an experience I won’t forget. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded in colors, and the vast landscape stretched out before me. It was a perfect moment to pause and reflect on the journey.

El Cap – The Insane Sunset

One of the most memorable moments of my trip was watching the sunset over El Cap, a dramatic rock formation that looms over the park. The sunset light hitting the cliffs turned everything into a fiery orange, and I was left speechless by the beauty of it all. It was one of those rare moments where everything aligns perfectly—location, timing, and light.

Salt Basin Dunes – A Wild Evening

My last stop in the Guadalupe Mountains took me to the Salt Basin Dunes, an otherworldly spot that felt like it could be straight out of a dream. The dunes were stark and striking against the desert landscape, and I spent the evening there, completely immersed in the quiet and the beauty. As the sun set and the sky darkened, the dunes took on a magical quality that made the experience even more surreal.

Texas proved to be far more than I expected—a place of rugged beauty and incredible landscapes. From the peak fall colors in McKittrick Canyon to the wildness of the Salt Basin Dunes, every corner of the Guadalupe Mountains had something new to offer. I’m already looking forward to my next adventure in this stunning state.

2024 Travel Recap: Exploring Utah

Utah: Exploring the Desert and Its Hidden Gems

Utah’s rugged landscapes and desert beauty offer a world unlike any other. From the towering cliffs of Zion to the remote corners of Lake Powell, my time in Utah was filled with awe-inspiring moments, and a few challenges along the way.

Zion National Park – A First Taste of Spring

My first visit to Zion came in early spring, and it was nothing short of magical. The iconic red rock formations were bathed in soft light as the park began to come alive. Springtime in Zion offered a quieter experience compared to the summer crowds, and the cooler temperatures made for perfect hiking weather. The juxtaposition of the deep canyons against the vibrant desert flora left me in awe of nature’s ability to thrive in such a harsh environment.

Wildflowers in Hanksville – Desert Beauty Unfolding

On a drive through the Utah desert, I stumbled upon an unexpected sight: wildflowers emerging from the cracks in the earth near Hanksville. It’s incredible how life can persist in such a seemingly inhospitable place. The burst of color against the vast, barren landscape was a reminder of the resilience of nature, and I spent a good while soaking it all in.

Canyonlands – The Ultimate Desert Landscape

My time in Canyonlands was spent exploring its vast, remote terrain. This park, with its deep canyons and towering mesas, felt like a true escape into the wild. The silence here is deafening, and it’s easy to feel small in the face of the park’s vastness. From the Island in the Sky to the Needles District, each part of Canyonlands offers something unique, and I was grateful to have the chance to take it all in.

Lake Powell – Reflection Canyon and a Wild Drive

Lake Powell was another adventure that stands out in my mind. I explored Alstrom Point on a wild drive, which took me through some seriously rugged terrain. But the real gem was Reflection Canyon. The backpack to this secluded spot was one of the most memorable of my adventures—not just because of the stunning scenery, but also due to the high winds that made the night challenging. Despite the wind gusts, I woke up to the incredible serenity of Reflection Canyon, which made the experience all the more rewarding.

Alstrom Point – One of the Best Sunrises

Alstrom Point, however, yielded one of the best sunrises I saw all year. As the sun slowly rose over the horizon, it painted the landscape in a golden light, reflecting off the still waters of the lake. The combination of the wild drive and the stunning views at sunrise made this an unforgettable moment.

Utah’s desert landscapes are truly unmatched, and each of these experiences brought a new level of appreciation for the raw beauty of the region. From the wildflowers of Hanksville to the unforgettable sunrise at Alstrom Point, this state offered adventure, beauty, and memories that I’ll carry with me for years to come.

2024 Travel Recap: Exploring Arizona

As I reflect on my 2024 travels, Arizona stands out as a state that never fails to deliver awe-inspiring moments. From its sprawling deserts to dramatic canyons, Arizona offered a diverse range of landscapes and experiences that made it a highlight of my year. Here's a look back at some of the unforgettable adventures I had in the Grand Canyon State.

Superstition Mountains: Twice the Magic

The Superstition Mountains became a personal favorite this year, with visits in both February and November. During my first trip, I explored the Three Sisters in the low desert, falling in love with the way the afternoon light bathed the landscape and witnessing an absolutely insane sunset that left me speechless. When I returned in November, I visited Lost Dutchman State Park for another incredible sunset—just as magical as the first.

Sedona’s Red Rock Magic

Sedona captured my heart twice this year, including a visit in February that was made even more special by three consecutive days of snow. Seeing the iconic red rock formations dusted in white was surreal, and I made the most of my time by exploring every trail and vista imaginable. Sedona’s charm and beauty continued to inspire during my second visit later in the year, offering a mix of adventure and tranquility that I’ll never forget.

Canyon de Chelly: A Window into the Past

Canyon de Chelly was another highlight of my Arizona travels. Walking among its towering sandstone walls and ancient ruins felt like stepping back in time. The canyon’s rich history and stunning views offered a unique perspective on Arizona’s cultural and natural heritage.

Desert Tranquility in Saguaro National Park

In November, I explored Saguaro National Park, home to the towering cacti that are synonymous with the Southwest. The golden hour here was something special—the desert seemed to glow under the warm light. I loved hiking through the trails and getting up close to these giant plants, some of which are over 150 years old. It was a perfect reminder of the unique beauty found in Arizona’s desert landscapes.

Highlights That Stood Out

1. Sunset at the Superstition Mountains: Two visits, two unforgettable sunsets.

2. Snow in Sedona: A rare and magical experience in the red rock country.

3. Exploring Canyon de Chelly: A humbling blend of history and natural beauty.

4. Desert Skies in Saguaro National Park: Arizona’s sunsets and night skies are unparalleled.

Final Thoughts

Arizona is a state that not cease to amaze me. Whether you’re chasing adventure, looking for creative inspiration, or simply craving moments of solitude in nature, this state has it all. My 2024 visit only deepened my appreciation for Arizona’s raw beauty and diverse landscapes.

Stay tuned for my next recap—who knows which state’s highlights will inspire your next adventure!