The Beauty And Adventure Of Vacationing In The Mojave National Preserve



by Paul Smith


Vacationing in the Mojave National Preserve offers everything for travelers looking for sunshine, outdoor activities and the beauty of nature. The preserve is located between Palm Springs and Las Vegas. Death Valley and the famous Joshua Tree Parks also flank it. The 1994 California Desert Protection Act established the area's protection from development. The National Park Service manages, preserves and protects the site.

Indeed, the desert can be a great choice for a vacation. This California attraction has something for everyone to enjoy. Beautiful natural features such as the Keslo Dunes, the Cima Dome and the Cinder Cone Lava Beds are at the top of the list of sights to see.

One popular attraction is the Keslo Dunes. This set of five dunes came to be through erosion. In dry periods the sand would blow into piles. When the dry period ended, vegetation would grow again. This vegetation would lock each dune. A phenomenon known as "singing sand" is something hikers come to this area to hear. They climb to the top of a dune and slide down creating a rumble that sounds like the dune is singing.

The lava flows, cinder cones and volcanic rock of the Cinder Cone Lava Beds is another must see sight. Millions of years of volcanic action have created this beautiful area. Also featured is the 70 square miles encompassed by the Cima Dome.

Warm summer days often reach 100 degrees while the nights are cooler. The varying elevations of the preserve provide variable temperatures. The lower levels are warmer and drier while the mountains are cooler and wetter. Rainfall averages between nearly four inches and nearly nine inches. The mountains often see snow fall in the winter. Hikers and other travelers should be ready for these variations in temperature.

Hiking is the most popular way to explore but horseback riding is another option. All pack animals such as mules, horses or even llamas are welcome on the trails and in the wilderness areas. Four-wheel drive vehicles provide an exciting way to see the preserve. Drivers should ensure the off road readiness of their vehicles. Plenty of off pavement trails and roads are ready to be explored. Drivers and passengers may even meet up with some of the wildlife of the area such as mules and cattle.

Words cannot truly describe the natural beauty travelers experience while vacationing in the Mojave National Preserve. Whether you choose hiking boots, a horse or an off road vehicle, this desert wonderland is ready to be explored and experienced.




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