We have been off the grid and loving it, but unable to send our latest post until today. BTW: Melinda says the post photos do not show correctly on her iPad, but on my phone and computer they look great. If you are having problems, let us know.

Well, well, well … The drive from the Alaskan RV Park to Joshua Tree, CA was long, interspersed with some heavy rainfall, and ended with Stargazer coming within a gas fume or two of running out of gas. The desert drive from Route 80 to Joshua Tree was much longer than expected and as Stargazer’s gas needle lowered we crossed our fingers and promised the Travel Muse we would never be so stupid again. By the last five miles all warning lights were blinking, but we made it!

Joshua Tree National Park was a great visit. The Joshua Trees and the Hidden Valley hike were highlights (check out cactus flower and cow formation below), while the Split Rock hike needed good friend and Jackson Ski Touring sign magician, Michael Pahl’s handiwork to ensure hikers return safely. Another wow were the ocotillo plants. We wrapped up the day having dinner at a local Mexican restaurant and watching the amazing dark night stars.

From Joshua Tree we drove long and hard to Death Valley National Park to be welcomed just before the Park by a 100-year panamint daisy super bloom. We were amazed by the number of people at the Park and were pleased temperatures only reached 85 degrees. The Badwater salt flats were very cool and 109 feet BELOW sea level, while the Artists Drive highlighted the various rock formations and colors. What was wild about Death Valley was looking up and seeing snow in the surrounding mountain range.

Another night of stargazing in Stargazer followed the next morning by a drive to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park where we were stopped from driving deep into the Park due to snowy roads and the beginning of the winter storm projecting 18 inches+ of snow. From 85 degrees to below 32 degrees in one day’s drive. But we did see a great wood carving of John Muir, but no Stickeen in sight.

During the trip gas has ranged from $4.50-$5.50 a galloon, but in Death Valley National Park the cost was $8.00. FYI: While in Joshua Tree Melinda made friends with some beer connoisseurs who provided us tips on tasty hazy California IPAs. Tomorrow we head to the coast for sun and more fun!