Chitika

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Vacationing In The Mojave National Preserve: Beauty To Behold

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.

A trip to the desert may not be what immediately comes to mind when planning an excursion. However, the volcanic formations such as the Cinder Cone Lava Beds and other natural features such as the Keslo Dunes and the Cima Dome make this a popular destination. There is something for everyone to do and 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.

Summer time temperatures are very warm. They sometimes reach upwards of 100 degrees. The mountain snow evidences the variability of the climate in the winter months. Rainfall ranges from almost four inches to almost nine inches annually depending on elevation.

Horseback riding is another popular activity. Horses, mules, llamas and other pack animals are welcome on the trails, roads and wilderness areas of the preserve. Beyond horseback riding and hiking, four-wheel drive vehicles are a standard way to see the sights. Vehicles used must be legal and up to date as well as mechanically ready for a truly off road experience. Visitors cannot create new routes but plenty of off pavement dirt and gravel roads are available. Also keep an eye out for the wildlife of the area such as cattle and burros.

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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment