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.

Mojave River

The Mojave River surfaces in just a few places in the desert. One such place is Afton Canyon. Here the presence of water forms a natural oasis that nourished native plants and animals as well as some invasive exotics like tamarisk. Also known as salt cedar, tamarisk is a phreatophyte with a deep root system that allows it to consume copious amounts of water. It also makes it hard to eradicate.

Snows of San Gorgonio

Joshua trees, seen here in their namesake national park, are an indicator species of the Mojave.

Spanish Dagger

Yucca schidigera is also known as Mojave Yucca or Spanish Dagger. It was an important plant for the Native Americans

Airline Ghost Town

A ghost town of a different sort exists outside of the town of Mojave. Here, adjacent to Edwards Air Force Base, the dry climate helps preserve mothballed airliners.

Beasts of Burden

Burros are not native to the Mojave, California, or the North American continent. Originating in North Africa, these beasts were brought by prospectors to bear burdens. Tenacious creatures, burros thrive in the most austere environments to be found in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts.

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