From there to here, from here to there, funny things are everywhere. – Dr Seuss.
The first reaction of many who enter Joshua Tree National Park is, where have I landed? and what are these creatures?. For others there is a sense that you have jumped into the beloved Dr. Seuss’s book, The Lorax, as the quirky vegetation has a striking resemblance to the Truffula Trees.
The truth is Joshua trees are not trees at all and instead a member of the Agave family known as Yucca brevifolia. Ok, at first look they are quite ugly, but spring rains will bring long stalks of white flowers and meadows of wildflowers at their feet.
Until then…
Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living. It’s a way of looking life through the wrong end of a telescope. –Dr Seuss.
Joshua Trees are indigenous to the Mohave Desert of California. The park’s namesake comes from pioneers heading west who thought the trees were a message from Joshua, a biblical figure, guiding them west.
You’re off to great places today is your day. Your mountain is waiting so get on your way.-Dr Seuss
An unexpected surprise the to region was the granite boulders that seem to have been placed for one reason, exploration. And while there is camping at the foot of the granite mountains, permits are required for the backcountry.
We speak for the trees…
…and sometimes the trees speak to us. Our detour to Joshua Tree was a last-minute decision while traveling home last weekend. We thought it would be a change in scenery and while we were right, we also learn of the significance of yuccas in this barren landscape. The Native Americans utilized leaves for clothing and basket weaving, and the ground seeds for a flour. Yuccas are necessary for the survival of flora and fauna in the Mohave Desert, but it’s history is rich with cattle ranchers, and those traveling west …like us.
Oh the places you will go, there is fun to be done. -Dr. Seuss
Wind Kisses, Donna
Looks beautiful!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Surprisingly so. We thought we would drive right through and check it off the list. I definitely want to go back and explore more. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The only thing missing is a cowboy and a rolling bush on those pictures. 😀 Great post. I learned something today. 😀
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yeah. Thank you. I did too. What I thought might be ugly desert turned out to be beautiful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like how you wove Dr. Seuss through your post!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you. Made the day fun to visual Dr. Seuss.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My kind of place. Deserted (excuse the pun) with not too many people around.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Too funny Mike. I actually said to Dale, “that guy Mike I follow from North Wales would love this place”! There really were very few people around, and with winter the temps were mid 70’s. I can’t wait to return. There is lots of exploring to do. A photographers dream as lighting throughout the day changes every view. Thanks Mike.
LikeLike
Great photos and I LOVE the Dr. Suess quotes you added! I stay warm watching you take photos of your adventures!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Shelley.
LikeLike
Lovely. We are headed in this direction!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful photo sand quotes. Reminded me of the desert turf of Terlingua, in West Texas where I spent a few days some years ago.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Ellen. Contrary to what many think, the desert is a beautiful, and peaceful place.
LikeLike
These fine photos took me back to my trip to West Texas, to the desert near Big Bend National Park. For me as a city dweller, I found the silence and barren vistas just wonderful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I completely agree. Thank you so much.
LikeLike
A great place to be for someone like me! Love the big boulders as well. Nicely done with the quotes!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. It’s a fun place to romp around. It’s an older post, but seemed applicable. New one was submitted. Thanks again Leya,always fun to join you guys when I can.
LikeLike
And you are always welcome!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very nice.
LikeLiked by 1 person