Explore the Wild Wonders of the U.S. West — Nature-Focused Travel Guides, Trail Stories, and Photography.
Hey there, and welcome!
I’m Vanessa, a German girl living in California, where I’ve fallen deeply in love with the natural beauty and diversity of the Golden State — and the entire Western United States. I’m the one-woman-show aka the writer and photographer behind Venture Beyond the Picture.
You’re in the right place if you’re looking for nature-focused travel guides, real tales from the trails, and photography that celebrates wild landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and the quiet beauty of nature.
I hope what you find here helps you plan your adventures across the Western U.S., capture the outdoors through your own lens, and spark new inspiration.
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Step into the ancient forests of Redwood National and State Parks, where towering redwoods reach for the sky and carpets of ferns create a magical understory. Wander along trails and scenic drives, encounter plant- and wildlife, and feel the quiet majesty of an ecosystem that has thrived for millions of years. This guide helps you discover the best hikes, plant- and wildlife highlights, must-see spots, and seasonal tips to make the most of your time among these giants.