April and Vikas

14/08/2024

Red Cliffs Nature Trail, nestled in Southern California, captivates hikers with its dramatic red rock formations and varied landscapes. The trail weaves through an enchanting mix of terrain, including beautifully layered red cliffs, desert flora, and rugged mountains. The vibrant red hues of the cliffs, created by iron oxide deposits, provide a striking visual contrast to the desert greenery of the surrounding vegetation.

This short and easy hike is ideal for all types of hikers. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, thanks to the mild temperatures and pleasant weather. Although summer can be quite hot and winter may bring cooler temperatures, the trail’s breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife make it a compelling destination throughout the year. With a convenient big parking area at the trailhead, exploring this scenic gem is both accessible and rewarding!

Red Cliffs Nature Trail, nestled in Southern California, captivates hikers with its dramatic red rock formations and varied landscapes. The trail weaves through an enchanting mix of terrain, including beautifully layered red cliffs, desert flora, and rugged mountains. The vibrant red hues of the cli...

13/08/2024

Watching sunrise from Grandview Overlook has been one of our favorite things to do since (temporarily) moving to West Virginia! This view does not disappoint 😍

Have you been to this underrated national park? 🤔

11/08/2024

On March of 2023, Vikas and I went of an exciting adventure in the desert of California. We hope you will be inspired by our 3-day Joshua Tree itinerary! 🌵

On March of 2023, Vikas and I went of an exciting adventure in the desert of California. We hope you will be inspired by our 3-day Joshua Tree itinerary!

11/08/2024

We had an awesome time hiking to Eagle Point in Bluestone State Park. The hike was only a mile to the summit, but it was a steep climb with a 750-foot elevation gain—definitely a leg burner!
The views from the top were absolutely worth every step. We’re already looking forward to coming back and catching the sunrise from this amazing spot.

10/08/2024

Our first real vacation this summer!! ⬇️

As compared to last year where we took a trip every other week, this year has been much different. First off, we are very grateful to have the lifestyle that we have! But we have worked our butts off to get where we are today! 🙌

With that being said, we are not quite where we want to be. April still works a 9-5 full time job while Vikas works hard to get our content creation business up and running. Our goal is to become full time content creators and bloggers! ✨

After months and months of grinding, it was time to take a (short) vacation to the mountains of Virginia. We booked a cabin with in Stanardsville, Virginia. This weekend getaway was MUCH NEEDED! 😌

Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia, has a special place in our hearts. When we first met in 2022, all we did was hike in Shenandoah NP all summer long. We love that area so much! ♥️

Our little vacation consisted of hiking in the early morning into the afternoon then relaxing the rest of the day. We both needed this reset. It went by too quickly but we’re so thankful for the time we had to “getaway” and spend time together without the every day life chores. 🌱

If anyone is visiting Shenandoah National Park and needs hiking recommendations, feel free to reach out! 😊

27/07/2024

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Hagen Canyon Nature Trail stands as a crown jewel within Red Rock Canyon State Park. As you traverse this leisurely route, marvel at the intricately layered red rocks and unique geological formations shaped by centuries of natural forces. Perfect for families and solo adventurers alike, this trail winds through a serene desert environment, providing ample opportunities for peaceful exploration and photography. Remember to tread lightly to preserve this fragile ecosystem and enjoy a memorable journey immersed in the natural beauty of Southern California.

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Hagen Canyon Nature Trail stands as a crown jewel within Red Rock Canyon State Park. As you traverse this leisurely route, marvel at the intricately layered red rocks and unique geological formations shaped by centuries of natural forces. Perfect for families a...

19/07/2024

One foggy morning at Sandstone Falls in New River Gorge National Park. 😶‍🌫️🌫️
The New River flowed calmly under a gentle veil of mist, cascading over smooth sandstone with a serene grace that painted a picture-perfect moment.



Have you been to New River Gorge National Park?

14/07/2024

Embark on a spectacular hike along the historical Hidden Valley Trail where nature's artistry unfolds amidst towering boulders and twisted Joshua trees. Wander through sandy paths and scramble over granite formations, discovering a unique and picturesque scenery unlike other parts of Joshua Tree National Park.

Legend has it that in the late 1800s, Hidden Valley served as a hideout for cattle rustlers seeking to conceal their ill-gotten gains amidst the massive boulder formations. The natural fortress-like qualities of the valley provided an ideal hiding place for the thieves and their stolen cattle.

In 1936, the landscape was forever altered when a determined rancher named Bill Keys blasted an opening through the towering rock walls that encircle Hidden Valley. This strategic move not only facilitated easier access for his cattle to the lush grasses within the valley but also inadvertently opened up this hidden oasis to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Embark on a spectacular hike along the historical Hidden Valley Trail where nature's artistry unfolds amidst towering boulders and twisted Joshua trees. Wander through sandy paths and scramble over granite formations, discovering a unique and picturesque scenery unlike other parts of Joshua Tree Nat...

14/07/2024

This morning at the Bolar Lookout Tower in Pipestem Resort State Park, we experienced a sunrise that was pure magic. The sky transformed into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and purples, painting the horizon in a spectacular display of colors. It was like nature had unleashed its most dazzling show just for us. Standing there, surrounded by awe-struck silence, we couldn’t help but feel incredibly fortunate to witness such an unforgettable moment.



Do you prefer sunrises or sunsets?

13/07/2024

If you're a fan of one-of-a-kind rock formations, you can't miss this gem on your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary! Picture yourself strolling along the serene Arch Rock Trail, immersing yourself in the breathtaking desert scenery. As you wander, you'll encounter a mesmerizing array of ancient rock creations, but none quite as captivating as Heart Rock and Arch Rock themselves. These natural wonders stand as testaments to the park's geological history, inviting you to explore, photograph, and marvel at their unique beauty.

If you're itching for more adventure and love bouldering and climbing big rocks, then explore past Arch Rock. Beyond this iconic spot, you'll enter a boulder field surrounded by stunning rock formations. Picture massive granite boulders scattered across the desert landscape, forming intricate patterns and offering endless opportunities for bouldering and climbing enthusiasts.

If you venture past Heart Rock or Arch Rock, make sure you've packed a map, compass, and have good directional skills to navigate this off-trail terrain. Embrace the challenge, but always know your limits. Lace up your hiking boots, tread carefully, and get ready to discover a whole new dimension of the park's awe-inspiring landscapes!

If you're a fan of one-of-a-kind rock formations, you can't miss this gem on your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary! Picture yourself strolling along the serene Arch Rock Trail, immersing yourself in the breathtaking desert scenery. As you wander, you'll encounter a mesmerizing array of ancient ro...

13/07/2024

We started our day with a sunrise hike at New River Gorge National Park, and it was absolutely magical! The sky was a canvas of vibrant colors, with a soft blanket of fog gently hovering over the river below.

As we hiked through the woods, the mist added an enchanting atmosphere to the scenery, making the whole experience feel surreal and captivating. It was one of those rare moments where nature’s beauty truly takes your breath away. And let’s not forget to mention the “magical” goat that appeared out of thin air. 🐐 ✨

After watching sunrise, we hiked two more trails which offered different angles of the New River Gorge Bridge. Perfect way to spend a Saturday morning! 😌



Have you been to New River Gorge National Park?

05/07/2024

Want to visit one of California's best-preserved historical gold mill? Well, head on over to Joshua Tree National Park and hike along the Wall Street Mill Trail! On this short hike, you will see many amazing artifacts from the past, including an old homestead, rusted vehicles from the early 1900s, and the famous Wall Street Mill.

This site is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, so please be respectful when you visit and do not take anything with you. This is an easy hike through the beautiful desert landscape. If you are into both hiking and history then this is the perfect little adventure for you!

Want to visit one of California's best-preserved historical gold mill? Well, head on over to Joshua Tree National Park and hike along the Wall Street Mill Trail! On this short hike, you will see many amazing artifacts from the past, including an old homestead, rusted vehicles from the early 1900s, a...

02/07/2024

Want to see Joshua Tree National Park's magnificent desert landscape full of Joshua Trees and other beautiful plants along with boulder fields and unique rock formations? If you answered yes, then I have the perfect short and easy hike just for you!

The Split Rock Trail takes you through rocky and sandy terrain and up and over giant boulders with spectacular scenic views. It is a 2.5-mile loop trail but there is an opportunity for a short side quest to see a few more unique rock formations, such as Face Rock and Skull Rock. I definitely recommend the latter to the adventurers who want to add a few more miles to their hike. It will 100% be worth it!

Want to see Joshua Tree National Park's magnificent desert landscape full of Joshua Trees and other beautiful plants along with boulder fields and unique rock formations? If you answered yes, then I have the perfect short and easy hike just for you! The Split Rock Trail takes you through rocky and s...

30/06/2024

Located conveniently off one of the main roads within Joshua Tree National Park, Skull Rock is a very popular tourist attraction. This rock formation has formed from many, many years of erosion. It got its name due to the erosion process resulting in two big eye sockets and the entire rock itself resembling the shape of a skull.

Although the rock formation itself is extremely popular, the trail does not get too crowded. Hike along the Skull Rock Nature Trail for a more peaceful experience. It's short and easy with stunning views of the desert landscape. Explore the area, (carefully) climb some rocks, and learn more about the desert's animals and plants. Add this hike to your itinerary when visiting Joshua Tree National Park!

Located conveniently off one of the main roads within Joshua Tree National Park, Skull Rock is a very popular tourist attraction. This rock formation has formed from many, many years of erosion. It got its name due to the erosion process resulting in two big eye sockets and the entire rock itself re...

29/06/2024

Explore one of the most unique areas in Joshua Tree National Park. Cholla Cactus Garden is full of prickly cacti and scenic views of the desert and mountains. This garden mainly consists of the famous teddy bear cholla cactus. They are able to easily multiply and thrive in this area.

There is a very short and easy trail that takes you through the Cholla Cactus Garden. We highly recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset to see the beautiful colors not only in the sky but also reflecting off of the chollas. In the spring, you will be able to see flowers blooming, too. This is a stunning spot in Joshua Tree National Park that you don't want to miss!

Explore one of the most unique areas in Joshua Tree National Park. Cholla Cactus Garden is full of prickly cacti and scenic views of the desert and mountains. This garden mainly consists of the famous teddy bear cholla cactus. They are able to easily multiply and thrive in this area. There is a very...

10/06/2024

There are so many wonderful things to do and see in Yosemite National Park! It can be a bit stressful trying to narrow it down to the top places you want to see. A lot of people prefer to hang out around Yosemite Valley because it's easy to drive around, lots of family-friendly hiking trails, and lodging/restaurant options.

My husband and I have already experienced enough of Yosemite Valley, so we wanted to venture out to other parts of Yosemite, such as to Glacier Point, Hetch Hetchy, Mariposa Grove, Wawona area, and along Tioga Road. And I planned the perfect 5-day Yosemite adventure for us! It was actually a birthday surprise for Vikas for his 30th birthday. 🥳

There are so many wonderful things to do and see in Yosemite National Park! It can be a bit stressful trying to narrow it down to the top places you want to see. A lot of people prefer to hang out around Yosemite Valley because it's easy to drive around, lots of family-friendly hiking trails, and lo...

09/06/2024

Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful places on Earth! From the beautiful valleys surrounded by majestic mountains to the waterfalls and alpine lakes... the list goes on. It's just an amazing place! But did you know Yosemite is home to three groves of giant sequoia trees?

This species of trees are the most massive trees on Earth! The lesser visited groves include Tuolumne and Merced Groves near Crane Flat. The most popular and most easily accessible one is known as Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias which is located near the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park.

Within Mariposa Grove, you will find a 3,000-year-old giant sequoia, ones with tunnels through them, some that have fallen exposing their massive roots, and unique giant sequoias with interesting shapes. This section of Yosemite National Park has so much to offer for all types of adventurers. It's 100% worth making time to visit during your trip to Yosemite!

Within Mariposa Grove, you will find a 3,000-year-old giant sequoia, ones with tunnels through them, some that have fallen exposing their massive roots, and unique giant sequoias with interesting shapes. This section of Yosemite National Park has so much to offer for all types of adventurers. It's 1...

05/06/2024

Taft Point and Sentinel Dome are magnificent natural landmarks located in Yosemite National Park near Glacier Point. The views from each location are out-of-this-world! From Taft Point you can see El Capitan and Yosemite Falls, and from Sentinel Dome you can see Nevada Fall and Half Dome.

There are many ways to reach both Taft Point and Sentinel Dome, and the most popular route is a 5-mile loop hike. Make your way towards Sentinel Dome, scramble to the top, and admire the incredible 360-degree views. Then hop onto the famous Pohono Trail for even more spectacular views of Yosemite Valley as you head towards Taft Point.

Taft Point is a very popular spot for watching sunrise or sunset, exploring the huge granite mountain and its vertical cliffs, and finding all the amazing viewpoints of Yosemite Valley. You will also see The Fissures which are narrow fractures in the granite that go down as far as 2,000 feet below. Add this amazing loop hike to your list of hikes to do while visiting Yosemite National Park!

Taft Point and Sentinel Dome are magnificent natural landmarks located in Yosemite National Park near Glacier Point. The views from each location are out-of-this-world! From Taft Point you can see El Capitan and Yosemite Falls, and from Sentinel Dome you can see Nevada Fall and Half Dome.

02/06/2024

Hike to Yosemite's most underrated waterfall known as Chilnualna Falls (pronounced "Chil-noo-al-na"). Located in the Wawona area of Yosemite National Park, this waterfall consists of 5 large cascades with the tallest one dropping 240 feet. The hike will take you through pine-dense forests, pass beautiful vistas, and offers spectacular views of Chilnualna Falls and its cascades.

Although the entirety of the hike is breathtaking, surprisingly you will not have to worry about massive crowds as compared to hikes within Yosemite Valley. This hike is fairly long and tough due to a gradual yet steady incline which results in a more peaceful experience. If you are looking to beat the crowd while visiting Yosemite National Park, this is the perfect hike for you!

Hike to Yosemite's most underrated waterfall known as Chilnualna Falls (pronounced "Chil-noo-al-na"). Located in the Wawona area of Yosemite National Park, this waterfall consists of 5 large cascades with the tallest one dropping 240 feet. The hike will take you through pine-dense forests, pass beau...

01/06/2024

Hike along one of the most scenic trails in Yosemite National Park to a 370-foot waterfall. The Panorama Trail to Illilouette Fall offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley, Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, and Half Dome. This trail is less trafficked as compared to other popular trails in Yosemite, so you will be able to enjoy a peaceful and quiet hike to a beautiful waterfall.

Don’t underestimate this hike! It will be easy as you descend down towards Illilouette Fall, but then you will regain 1,400 feet of elevation in about 2.5 miles. This hike will be tough but very do-able and very much worth it!

Hike along one of the most scenic trails in Yosemite National Park to a 370-foot waterfall. The Panorama Trail to Illilouette Fall offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley, Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, and Half Dome. This trail is less trafficked as compared to other popular trails in Yosemite, so you....

30/05/2024

Hike to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. Located within the Hetch Hetchy area, this 13-mile out-and-back hike takes you to both Wapama Falls and Rancheria Falls. If you enjoy long day hikes then this is the perfect adventure for you!

The hike to Wapama Falls is unique because you can get really close to the base of the waterfall (while staying on the footbridges). The hike to Rancheria Falls is quite long but worth it. Not only are these waterfalls amazing, but the views along the entirety of the hike are spectacular!

Hike to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. Located within the Hetch Hetchy area, this 13-mile out-and-back hike takes you to both Wapama Falls and Rancheria Falls. If you enjoy long day hikes then this is the perfect adventure for you!

29/05/2024

Hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. Located within the Hetch Hetchy area, Wapama Falls crashes down from granite cliffs and under (or over) footbridges. This waterfall hike is unique because you can get really close to the base of the waterfall (while staying on the footbridges). Not only is this waterfall amazing, but the views along the entirety of the hike are spectacular!

Hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. Located within Hetch Hetchy area, Wapama Falls crashes down from granite cliffs and under (or over) footbridges. This waterfall hike is unique because you can get really close to the base of the waterfall (while staying on the f...

24/05/2024

Take the famous Mist Trail and John Muir Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls located in Yosemite National Park. This popular yet difficult loop hike is the perfect adventure for those who enjoy challenging hikes with scenic views and waterfalls!

Vernal Fall is a 317-foot waterfall and is best experienced via the Mist Trail. The top of this waterfall offers jaw-dropping views! Nevada Fall is a powerful 594-foot waterfall. Enjoy views of this waterfall from both Mist Trail and John Muir Trail. Add this beautiful hike to your chasing-waterfalls-in-Yosemite bucket list!

Take the famous Mist Trail and John Muir Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls located in Yosemite National Park. This popular yet difficult loop hike is the perfect adventure for those who enjoy challenging hikes with scenic views and waterfalls!

22/05/2024

Hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park! Vernal Fall via the Mist Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite. Climb over 600 granite steps and feel the power (and mist) of Vernal Fall! Hopefully you will see a rainbow or two. The views from the top of Vernal Fall will leave you breathless!

If you are hiking to Vernal Fall in late spring or early summer, bring your rain jacket! It will feel like you are hiking through a natural waterpark. It’s exhilarating! Get there early to beat the crowds and take your time to avoid slipping on any wet rocks.

Take a hike to see Vernal Fall only or continue to reach Nevada Fall for an even longer and more strenuous trek. Either way, each waterfall is worth it!

Hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite National Park! Vernal Fall via the Mist Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite. Climb over 600 granite steps and feel the power (and mist) of Vernal Fall! Hopefully you will see a rainbow or two. The views from the top of Vernal Fa...

20/05/2024

Yosemite Falls is one of North America’s tallest waterfalls. It rises 2,425 feet above the Valley floor! Yosemite Falls has three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). The elevation at the top of Upper Yosemite Falls is about 6,500 feet above sea level.

Conquer this hike which takes you to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls. Enjoy the rewarding and jaw-dropping views of Yosemite Valley. Be prepared as there is a lot of elevation gain, and the slippery, rocky terrain adds to the challenge. However, this trail is worth every step! Once you reach the top, you’ll understand why.

Conquer this hike which takes you to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls. Enjoy the rewarding and jaw-dropping views of Yosemite Valley. Be prepared as there is a lot of elevation gain, and the slippery, rocky terrain adds to the challenge. However, this trail is worth every step! Once you reach the top...

19/05/2024

We have some exciting news! We finally had our first collaboration as content creators!! We teamed up with Peak Shenandoah Wineries to help promote their wineries in the Peak Shenandoah area of Virginia.

In today's video, we spent three days hiking and sipping wine! The hikes were Buzzard Rock and Big Devil Stairs, and the wineries were Fox Meadow, Star in the Valley, Rappahannock, Chester Gap, and Capstone. This is part 2 out of a 2-part series.

We have some exciting news! We finally had our first collaboration as content creators!! We teamed up with Peak Shenandoah Wineries to help promote their win...

11/05/2024

Take on this tough 7-mile out-and-back hike to a unique giant bolder with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Blackrock Mountain sits at 5,802 feet which makes it one of the highest peaks of the Plott Balsam Mountain Range! This is an incredible hike you don't want to miss if you are near Sylva, North Carolina.

Take on this tough 7-mile out-and-back hike to a unique giant bolder with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Blackrock Mountain sits at 5,802 feet which makes it one of the highest peaks of the Plott Balsam Mountain Range! This is an incredible hike you don't want to miss if....

11/05/2024

Hi everyone 👋🏽 it’s time for a reintroduction! Our names are April and Vikas and we love outdoor adventures! Whether that be hiking, camping, climbing… you name it. There’s so much in this world we want to experience, and we want to bring you along with us!

That’s one of the reasons we created this account. Not only to document our travels and adventures, but to inspire others to get outdoors and see what this beautiful world has to offer. We are huge advocates for traveling and exploring responsibly, so please do your part and follow Leave No Trace principles along with doing your research about new places.

We would consider ourselves “slow travelers” as we don’t like to hop from one place to another too quickly. Plus, April works a full time 9-5’er right now (not remotely), so we have no choice but to travel slowly! Oh and we travel around the United States with our two floofs (Tubby and Smoky)! 🐱

Ok, time for some fun facts about ourselves! I (April) will go first. I’m currently a travel physical therapist. I graduated college in 2021 with my doctorate in physical therapy. I have always had a desire to travel but never was able to get into it until after I graduated. My first “big trip” was driving all the way to California from North Carolina for a travel contract.

That’s when i discovered how incredible it is to travel to new places. I fell in LOVE with California! We had so many amazingly awesome adventures there. My favorite was definitely hiking to the top of Mt. Whitney. That’s an experience I will never ever forget!

I (Vikas) was born and raised in India. I came to the US for my higher education, and after graduation I was working as a design engineer for almost 2 years in Ohio. I love hiking, photography is my passion, and being outside in nature gives me peace. The craziest thing I have done so far is hiking up the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States in one day - Mt. Whitney. It was also a record snow year which added to the challenge! My favorite National Park is Yosemite thus far. But I can’t wait to explore all the National Parks!

Thank you for following along and we appreciate all the love and support! 🫶🏻🫶🏽