Over the last two years my friends and I have spent a lot of time in the desert. Mostly Joshua Tree National Park and southwestern Utah. It’s hard to find more suitable weather for being outside than what those places offer most year round. The nights are cold but comfortable, and the days warm and sunny.
There is no time schedule in the desert, no set plans, only things to explore and goals to accomplish. Being a rock climber in Joshua Tree can be both inspiring and terrifying at times. The climbs are bold and brave, and I get shut down more often than not.
The red splitting sandstone of southwest Utah is unlike any climbing destination in the world. Inching your way up these crack systems to see the expansiveness behind you is breathtaking.