Nature is Calling (Unless You Forgot Your Phone Charger) : National Parks for the LA Adventurer (or Escape Artist)
Let's face it, Los Angeles is a concrete jungle (with way better tacos). But fear not, weary soul, because a stone's throw (or perhaps a slightly longer drive) away lie some of the most incredible National Parks in the country. So ditch the Hollywood hustle and bustle for a breath of fresh air (probably with a little wildfire smoke mixed in, it's California, baby) and commune with nature!
National Parks: Close Enough for a Weekend Getaway (But Maybe Not Close Enough to Forget the Snacks)
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Joshua Tree National Park: Just a two-hour drive away, Joshua Tree is your quintessential desert playground. Think Dr. Seuss went botanist and decided to unleash a fantastical world of twisted Joshua trees and alien-looking rock formations. Hike, camp, or rent a dune buggy and unleash your inner Mad Max (minus the whole apocalypse thing, hopefully). Word to the wise: Don't be fooled by the cool desert nights, the days can get scorching. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and enough water to fill a small swimming pool.
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Channel Islands National Park: Technically off the coast of LA, this archipelago is a paradise for the adventurous (or those who can stomach ferry rides). Kayak alongside playful dolphins, go scuba diving in kelp forests teeming with life, or simply relax on a secluded beach and pretend you're a millionaire on their private island (minus the millions, of course). Important note: Channel Islands can only be reached by boat or plane, so plan accordingly!
National Parks: A Bit Farther Afield (But Worth the Extra Gas Money...Probably)
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Yosemite National Park: Yosemite, the crown jewel of California National Parks, is a majestic wonderland roughly a 5-hour drive north. Gaze up at granite cliffs that scrape the sky, marvel at waterfalls cascading down mountainsides, and hike amongst giant sequoias that make you feel like a hobbit. Prepare yourself for: Crowds, especially during peak season. Yosemite is a popular park, so be prepared to share the beauty (and maybe some elbow room) with your fellow nature enthusiasts.
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Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Just a hop, skip, and a jump (well, maybe a longer drive) from Yosemite, these two National Parks offer similar awe-inspiring scenery. Hike amongst the largest trees on Earth in Sequoia, or explore the glacial valleys and granite peaks of Kings Canyon. Bonus: If you're feeling ambitious, tackle the majestic Kings Canyon National Park rim road for epic views (and maybe a slightly harrowing drive, depending on your tolerance for switchbacks).
Remember: No matter which National Park you choose, be sure to pack accordingly, respect the environment (leave no trace!), and don't forget your selfie stick (gotta capture those epic nature shots for the 'gram, right?). So ditch the crowded beaches and overpriced lattes, and go get your national park adventure on!
