Rubi Hammer

Coming soon: The Scenic Journey Traveling Between California's Nine National Parks

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1 year ago | [YT] | 1

Rubi Hammer

The Fan Canyon Overlook via the CA Riding/Hiking Trail and Stubbe Springs Loop in Joshua Tree National Park's backcountry is a remarkable adventure, especially during spring. This 13.2-mile (21 km) loop trail starts at Juniper Flats and meanders through diverse desert landscapes. In spring, the trail bursts into life with vibrant wildflowers, including mariposa lilies, desert dandelions, and the iconic Joshua trees adorned with their creamy white blooms.

As you ascend to the Fan Canyon Overlook, the panoramic views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains, San Gorgonio Mountain, and the sprawling desert floor are breathtaking. The overlook provides a perfect spot to rest and absorb the sweeping vistas, accentuated by the crisp, clear air of springtime. The clear skies of the season often enhance visibility, allowing hikers to fully appreciate the vastness of the desert and the rugged beauty of the mountain ranges.

Continuing on the Stubbe Springs Loop, hikers traverse sandy washes, rocky outcrops, and scenic ridges. The varied terrain keeps the hike engaging and showcases the park's geological diversity. Wildlife sightings are common in spring, with lizards darting across the path and birds like the cactus wren and phainopepla flitting among the foliage. The vibrant ecosystem comes alive, with the sounds of nature providing a serene soundtrack to your journey.

The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, making it suitable for seasoned hikers seeking solitude and natural beauty. The combination of elevation changes and varied surfaces ensures that hikers get a comprehensive workout while being constantly rewarded with stunning views. The sense of isolation and tranquility found on this trail is a stark contrast to the more visited areas of the park, offering a true escape into nature.

Remember to carry plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense even in spring. Proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. The clear spring weather, combined with the blooming flora and active fauna, makes this trail an ideal choice for those looking to experience the full splendor of Joshua Tree National Park.

This hike encapsulates the serene yet rugged charm of Joshua Tree, offering an unforgettable experience in one of California's most iconic national parks. The combination of breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and the vibrant spring ecosystem makes the Fan Canyon Overlook via CA Riding/Hiking Trail and Stubbe Springs Loop a must-do for any avid hiker or nature lover.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

Concluding my spring 2023 Southwest USA hiking trip, I embarked on a road trip from Santa Monica to Palo Alto via US-101 and California Route 1. Starting in Santa Monica, known for its iconic pier and beaches, I headed north on US-101. The journey took me through the urban sprawl of Los Angeles and into Ventura County, where agricultural fields and coastal views dominated the landscape.
Switching to California Route 1, the drive showcased the Pacific Ocean's expansive views, with rugged coastlines, serene beaches, and small, charming towns. The route passed through Malibu's scenic shores and the picturesque town of Santa Barbara. As I continued north, the landscape became more rugged, with cliffs and dense coastal vegetation.
Just before reaching Big Sur, a landslide forced a road closure on Route 1. I had to double back south, retracing my path through the winding coastal roads. Despite the detour, the scenery remained captivating.
On the way back from Big Sur, I made a stop near San Simeon and was fortunate to spot a colony of California sea lions basking on the beach. The sight of these playful marine mammals added a unique highlight to the trip.
I took California Route 46 eastward, passing through rolling hills and vineyards, a hallmark of California's wine country. Reconnecting with US-101, I continued my journey northward. The road led through the fertile Salinas Valley, known for its vast agricultural fields, and then into the bustling urban areas of the Bay Area.
The trip concluded in Palo Alto, a city recognized for Stanford University and its tech industry, where I lived for almost three years a decade and a half ago. The day after, after spending the day in San Francisco, I took a flight from SFO back home, concluding the three weeks long hiking trip.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

A scenic drive from Joshua Tree National Park to Santa Monica along the Pacific Coast offers an unforgettable journey through some of Southern California’s most iconic landscapes. Starting from the desert beauty of Joshua Tree, this route will take you through dramatic changes in scenery, from arid deserts to lush coastal vistas.
Begin your journey in Joshua Tree National Park, where you can explore unique rock formations, desert flora, and the famous Joshua trees. As you exit the park, take CA-62 W (Twentynine Palms Highway) towards Interstate 10 W. Along the way, you'll pass through the charming desert towns of Yucca Valley and Morongo Valley. Continue on I-10 W, heading towards the bustling city of Palm Springs, known for its mid-century modern architecture and vibrant arts scene.
From Palm Springs, continue west on I-10, transitioning from desert to urban landscapes as you approach the Greater Los Angeles area. To enhance the scenic aspect of your drive, take CA-60 W, which offers beautiful mountainous views as it skirts the San Gabriel Mountains.
Continue on CA-60 W until it merges back into I-10 W, heading towards the coast. Eventually, you'll reach the famed Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1). Drive north along the Pacific Coast Highway through Santa Monica, where you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views, sandy beaches, and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. This route offers numerous opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking vistas, from Malibu’s rugged coastline to the picturesque beaches of Santa Monica.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

The Fan Canyon Overlook via CA Riding/Hiking Trail and Stubbe Springs Loop in Joshua Tree National Park backcountry offers a remarkable adventure, especially during spring. This 13.2 mile (21 km) loop trail starts Juniper Flats and meanders through diverse desert landscapes. In spring, the trail bursts into life with vibrant wildflowers, including mariposa lilies, desert dandelions, and the iconic Joshua trees adorned with their creamy white blooms.
As you ascend to the Fan Canyon Overlook, the panoramic views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains, San Gorgonio Mountain and the sprawling desert floor are breathtaking. The overlook provides a perfect spot to rest and absorb the sweeping vistas, accentuated by the crisp, clear air of springtime. Continuing on the Stubbe Springs Loop, hikers will traverse sandy washes, rocky outcrops, and scenic ridges.
Wildlife sightings are common in spring, with lizards darting across the path and birds like the cactus wren and phainopepla flitting among the foliage. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, making it suitable for seasoned hikers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Remember to carry plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense even in spring. This hike encapsulates the serene yet rugged charm of Joshua Tree, offering an unforgettable experience in one of California's most iconic national parks.

1 year ago (edited) | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from the serene Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve to the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree National Park, showcasing Southern California's desert landscapes in the vibrant bloom of spring.
Starting at Kelso Dunes, marvel at the towering sand dunes shimmering in the morning light. The spring season breathes life into the arid landscape, with wildflowers dotting the sands. Take Kelso Dunes Road back to Kelbaker Road, cutting through the heart of the Mojave.
Travel south on Kelbaker Road, where Joshua trees begin to appear. Continue to National Trails Highway (Route 66). Turn right onto National Trails Highway, passing through Amboy and the famous Amboy Crater.
From Amboy, turn right onto Amboy Road heading south. This road takes you through stunning desert vistas toward Twentynine Palms. Turn left onto Two Mile Road, leading to the north entrance of Joshua Tree National Park.
Here, the landscape transforms with massive boulders and rugged mountains. Explore the park's two distinct desert ecosystems: the Mojave Desert with Joshua trees and the Colorado Desert with unique flora and fauna.
In spring, Joshua Tree National Park bursts into color with wildflowers and cacti in vibrant displays. Hike Hidden Valley, climb the boulders at Jumbo Rocks, or drive through the park to soak in the vistas.
This road trip offers a breathtaking glimpse into the diverse beauty of the California desert, especially magical in spring.
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1 year ago (edited) | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

‪@RubiHammer‬

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Rubi Hammer

My half Marathon run in the 2023 Jerusalem Marathon.

2 years ago | [YT] | 0