Mojave Desert

When most Americans think of the word “desert” they might envision camels and sand dunes. But the desert they are probably most familiar with is the Mojave, even if they don’t recognize it as such.

The Mojave is one of the most filmed and photographed arid landscapes on the planet. Situated between the fantasy playground of Las Vegas in neighboring Nevada and “La-La Land” (Los Angeles) , this desert has had a starring role in a multitude of feature films. The Mojave has also appeared in countless TV shows, advertisements and books as well.

Like California itself, the Mojave is a paradox. It is at once both near and far. Ringed by civilization on 3 sides, it is penetrated by a network of roads and human settlements. But also hidden within its numerous mountains and canyons are some of the most remote and seldom seen wonders in the state.

Kelso Depot

Railroad traffic is a common sight in the level plains of the Mojave.

Kelso Dunes

The Kelso Dunes are the largest dune field in the Mojave. They reach a height of ~650 ft. and cover over 40 square miles. This aeolian feature is fed from sediments washed out of the Transverse Ranges by the Mojave River's terminal sink a few miles to the northwest.

Fall Colors?

Fall foliage is not a common site in the Mojave. But up in the Kingston Range, deciduous trees can be found. These 7,000 ft. mountains capture enough precipitation to feed small springs upon which these plants need to survive here.

The Middle of Nowhere?

Though the Mojave may look empty from major interstates like I-15 and I-40, it is actually criss-crossed with a network of roads. The vast majority of those roads are unpaved.

Lava Tube

At the right time of day a beam of light illuminates this lava tube in the Mojave National Preserve.

« ‹ 2 of 5 › »