Having lived in the southwest, I became addicted to visiting ghost towns and mines. A saying among my friends is “West is best” when they talk about the amount of adventure that can be found in the Southwest. Sure, I enjoy hiking out east, but out west has lots of very unique places to explore. With an endless amount of BLM land and dispersed camping, you can always find plenty of places to get away from the hustle and bustle of towns. I have only lived in the Southwest for over five years now. I wanted to recap a few of the places that I have explored.
These are just a few places I have been to that I have enjoyed exploring. Always take extra water with you, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Many areas are not easy to get to, so you must ensure your vehicle can handle the terrain. Also, make sure not to know and not push your limits. The desert is not a forgiving place.
Each new place has something new to offer and different aspects to explore. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and always watch your step. Animals, plants, and even mine shafts can end fun trips immediately. Do research before going to make sure of any road updates, weather, and other information that might help or hinder your adventure. Libraries and public records can be invaluable resources, along with friends or fellow adventurers who have been there.
Growing up in the Midwest, we heard stories of the wild west, and exploring it has been amazing. Learning about each town’s history and about them before each trip gives you a much different perspective of them. Please leave things better than you left them and practice LNT principles. Most Importantly, have fun and happy adventuring!
Your blog is a treasure trove of travel inspiration. The way you describe the sights, sounds, and smells of each place paints a vivid picture in my mind. I can almost feel the warm sun on my skin and hear the bustling streets. Your writing truly brings the world to life!