We stopped by the Wyatt Earp Cottage in Vidal, California — the one permanent home he and Josephine ever owned. It’s quiet, a little worn around the edges, but somehow peaceful. We stood there thinking about their winters in the Mojave Desert, working the Happy Days mines up in the Whipple Mountains. digital-desert.com +2 sbpl.org +2 It’s not a tourist trap — just a humble slice of history tucked into the desert, with a historical marker nearby to remind us who once called it home. #WyattEarp #VidalCA #DesertHistory #MojaveDesert #EarpCottage 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com #RV Travel #Boondocking #Travel Vlog #Scenic Travel

Wickenburg is one of the most charming small towns we’ve visited. Walking down its historic streets felt like stepping back in time, with rustic storefronts, local art, and friendly faces around every corner. We loved exploring the quiet desert landscapes nearby and discovering little coffee shops and galleries that made the town feel so welcoming. It wasn’t about big attractions—it was about the pace, the scenery, and the genuine warmth of a place that still feels off the beaten path. #WickenburgAZ #DesertTownVibes #TravelDiaries #HiddenGemsUSA #SmallTownAdventures 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com #RV Travel #Boondocking #Travel Vlog #Scenic Travel

We visited the little cemetery just outside Vidal, California — a modest, secluded burial ground tucked away near the railroad tracks across from the old townsite. It’s mostly unmarked graves, some set off by barbed wire, a few stones for miners and early residents, and a stillness that feels like the desert is holding its breath. The place reminds us of Vidal’s boom‑and‑bust days: a mining camp turned aqueduct worker settlement, where Wyatt Earp once lived nearby. It’s not a polished historic site — just a raw, honest piece of the desert’s past. #VidalCA #MojaveDesert #DesertCemetery #GhostTownHistory #WyattEarp 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com #RV Travel #Boondocking #Travel Vlog #Scenic Travel

Experience one of the most scenic and easy off-road drives near Moab, Utah as we travel from Bull Canyon Overlook high above the Colorado River, across the stunning La Sal Mountains, and descend into the dramatic red rock landscapes of Gateway, Colorado. This route is perfect for those looking for beginner-friendly off-roading near Moab with nonstop scenery and incredible fall colors. In this video we begin at Bull Canyon Overlook, where sweeping views stretch across the Colorado River canyon and the red rock fins surrounding Moab. From there, the drive climbs into the cooler alpine elevations of the La Sal Mountains. In the fall, this area transforms with vibrant golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and dramatic contrasts between snow-dusted peaks and Utah’s iconic desert sandstone. Here is a full description of how to go from Moab to Gateway: 🚗 Route Description 1️⃣ Moab → Hwy 128 (Paved) From Moab, head north on US-191 for about 2 miles. Turn right onto Utah State Route 128 toward Cisco. Follow 128 along the Colorado River. ⏱ ~25–30 minutes from Moab to the La Sal Loop turnoff. 2️⃣ Hwy 128 → La Sal Loop Road (Paved Climb) Turn right onto La Sal Loop Road (signed). This road is fully paved and climbs into the La Sal foothills. Continue following signs toward Castle Valley / Geyser Pass. ⏱ About 25–35 minutes climbing. 3️⃣ La Sal Loop → Bull Canyon Overlook (Paved) Stay on La Sal Loop Road toward Castle Valley. Watch for the signed turnoff for Bull Canyon Overlook. The road to the overlook is paved all the way to the viewpoint parking area. This overlook sits high above the Colorado River canyon with dramatic views. ⏱ Roughly 10–15 minutes from the main loop road to the overlook. 4️⃣ Bull Canyon Area → John Brown Canyon (Dirt Begins) From the Bull Canyon area, continue following signs toward John Brown Canyon. The pavement ends and transitions to a graded dirt road. This section becomes progressively rougher as you head toward Colorado. High-clearance recommended; 4WD helpful depending on conditions. ⏱ Allow 1.5–2.5 hours for this dirt stretch depending on road conditions and stops. 5️⃣ John Brown Canyon → Gateway (Dirt to Paved) The road descends through John Brown Canyon. Eventually you reach pavement near Highway 141. Turn as signed toward Gateway. You’ll arrive in the small community of Gateway along the Dolores River. 🕒 Total Driving Time ➤ One Way (Moab → Gateway via this route) Paved sections: ~1.25–1.5 hours Dirt section: ~1.5–2.5 hours Estimated total: 3–4.5 hours one way ➤ Round Trip (same route back) 6–9 hours total driving time Add extra time for: Photos at Bull Canyon Slow dirt conditions Wildlife or washboard sections 🚙 Vehicle Notes Passenger car is fine to Bull Canyon Overlook. From there to Gateway: high clearance strongly recommended. After rain, the dirt can become muddy and slow. High-elevation meadows and aspen groves glowing with fall color Wildlife such as deer and wild turkey in the early mornings and evenings This scenic backcountry route is considered easy, but drivers should always check conditions before heading out. In fall especially: Watch for early snow or muddy sections at higher elevations Bring extra water and layers — temperatures can vary dramatically Ensure you have a high-clearance vehicle Download offline maps, as cell service is limited Be mindful of hunting season and share the road responsibly Descending into western Colorado, the landscape shifts again into rugged canyon country as we approach Gateway, Colorado, a quiet and scenic outpost along the Dolores River. Near Gateway, we explore John Brown Canyon, known for: Towering red rock canyon walls Remote desert beauty with fewer crowds than Moab Sweeping desert views and peaceful backcountry camping opportunities This drive showcases the incredible diversity of terrain in just one day — from river canyons to alpine mountains to high desert red rock. It’s a perfect addition to any Moab itinerary if you’re looking for scenic overland routes, fall color drives, or easy off-roading adventures near Moab, Utah. This video is Part 13 of our 16-part series featuring scenic drives and beginner-friendly off-road trails near Moab, Utah. Be sure to check out the full playlist for more routes that combine adventure with incredible views. If you enjoy scenic backcountry drives, overlanding routes, and hidden gems near Moab, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow along for the rest of the series. 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com

We made a stop at Tortilla Flat, tucked into the Superstition Mountains along Arizona’s historic Apache Trail. With only about six people “officially” calling it home, it feels like stepping into a time capsule — wooden boardwalks, an old saloon, a tiny schoolhouse-turned-museum, and relics scattered around. ghosttowns.com #TortillaFlatAZ #ApacheTrail #OldWestArizona #SuperstitionMountains #ArizonaRoadTrip 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com #RV Travel #Boondocking #Travel Vlog #Scenic Travel

Take a relaxing scenic drive through one of the most beautiful corners of southeastern Utah. In Part 13 of our 16-part Moab scenic drives & easy off-roading series, we travel La Sal Road from Highway 128 up to Bull Canyon Overlook, then return to Moab along Highway 128 beside the Colorado River. This drive showcases classic Moab scenery—towering red rock cliffs, expansive desert views, and the winding Colorado River carving through the canyon. The route is fully accessible by passenger car, making it perfect for travelers who want breathtaking views without technical off-roading. TAKING THIS DRIVE YOURSELF: From Moab the 34 mile trek will take 50 minutes one way. Whether you’re planning a trip to Moab, looking for inspiration, or just want to unwind with a peaceful drive through Utah’s canyon country, this video highlights why Highway 128 and La Sal Road are must-see routes. 🚗 What you’ll see in this video: Scenic ascent along La Sal Road Sweeping views from Bull Canyon Overlook A stunning return drive along Hwy 128 Colorado River canyon scenery near Moab This video is part of a larger series featuring easy off-road trails and scenic drives around Moab, all chosen to be approachable for stock vehicles and everyday travelers. 👉 Be sure to check out the rest of the series to discover more unforgettable Moab drives and trails. 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com

Just us, the open sky, and miles of quiet desert 🌵✨ Spent a few nights boondocking at Blue Cloud BLM near Parker, AZ, and it was exactly the unplugged reset we needed. No crowds, just sunsets, starry skies, and the simple joy of being off the grid. If you’re looking for a spot to escape and reconnect with nature, this little slice of desert might be your next favorite place. #BoondockingLife #BlueCloudBLM #ParkerArizona #OffTheGridAdventure #DesertEscape 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com #RV Travel #Boondocking #Travel Vlog #Scenic Travel

Join us as we return to the Moab backcountry for one of the area’s most scenic and approachable off-road adventures — Mineral Bottom Road. 🚙🌄 This week, we’re Mark and Paula, and we’re taking you along as we unload our side-by-side and head down a classic Moab scenic drive that’s perfect for easy off-roading, stunning canyon views, and a dose of Utah history. 🌄 Why Mineral Bottom Road Is a Must-Do Near Moab Mineral Bottom Road is one of Moab’s most beautiful backcountry routes, offering: Narrow shelf roads with jaw-dropping canyon drop-offs 😮 Iconic switchbacks into Mineral Canyon Access to the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park (permit required) While we chose our side-by-side, this route is also very doable in a high-clearance 4x4 truck under dry conditions. 🏕️ Camping, Picnics & River Access Along the way you’ll find: 🏕️ Primitive camping spots perfect for boondocking 🧺 A scenic picnic area near the Green River boat ramp 🚣 A key put-in/take-out point for Labyrinth Canyon river trips If you’re planning a river adventure, always check permit requirements in advance. ⚠️ Trail Tips & Safety Notes High-clearance vehicles recommended Avoid the road when wet — Moab mud is no joke Shelf roads are narrow with limited passing Vertical drops exceed 1,900 feet in places If you have basic off-road experience, this trail is manageable and incredibly rewarding. 🐏 Wildlife & History Along the Way This area is rich with: 🐏 Bighorn sheep lambing grounds ⛏️ Remnants of mid-20th century uranium and vanadium mining 🏚️ Abandoned mine sites now safely closed by the BLM and Utah Division of Oil, Gas & Mining 🚗 Mysterious old vehicles off of the cliffs — silent reminders of why caution matters Driving through Mineral Canyon feels like stepping onto an old western movie set. 🔁 Out & Back = Twice the Views Mineral Bottom is an out-and-back trail, which means you get to experience the dramatic shelf road both descending and climbing back out — and sometimes spot things you missed the first time. 👍 Thanks for Watching If you enjoy Moab scenic drives, easy off-roading, boondocking, National Parks, and western history, this adventure is for you. 👉 Like, subscribe, share, and hit the 🔔 so you don’t miss next week’s episode as we explore a lesser-known drive to an incredible overlook just outside Moab. 💬 We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! 📍 Find Us Here! 👉 Facebook: facebook.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/switchinggearsrvdiary 🌐 Website/Blog: switchinggearsrvdiary.com