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East Mojave Desert
The East Mojave Desert is a region located in the southeastern part of California. It is a portion of the larger Mojave Desert, which extends into Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. The Mojave Desert is one of the four major deserts in North America.
Key features of the East Mojave Desert include:
Mojave National Preserve:
This large protected area spans over 1.6 million acres and is known for its wide variety of desert ecosystems. It includes cactus gardens, lava flows, sand dunes, and the Kelso Dunes. The Mojave National Preserve provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the desert's natural beauty.
Wildlife:
Despite the harsh conditions, the East Mojave Desert supports a variety of wildlife. Animals such as desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and numerous bird species have adapted to the desert environment.
Mining History:
The East Mojave Desert has a rich history of mining, with remnants of old mines, ghost towns, and mining camps scattered throughout the region. These historical sites provide a glimpse into the area's past and the people who sought fortunes in mining.
Kelso Depot:
Once a bustling train depot, Kelso Depot is now a visitor center within the Mojave National Preserve. It offers information about the desert's natural and cultural history and serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding areas.
Joshua Tree National Park:
A significant part of the East Mojave Desert is encompassed by Joshua Tree National Park. This park is known for its unique Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and diverse desert landscapes. It attracts visitors interested in hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and enjoying the desert flora and fauna. The East Mojave Desert is characterized by its arid climate, extreme temperatures, and unique geological formations. It is a destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, nature exploration, and an appreciation of the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
Goffs
Mojave Preserve
Colorado River
Arizona
Nevada
Mitchell Caverns
Hole in the Wall
Halloran Petroglyphs
Ghost Towns
Ranching
Eastern Mojave Desert Highways & Freeways
Interstate 15Interstate 40
Route 66
National Old Trails Road
Santa Fe Railroad
Three Santa Fe Subsidiaries
Wilderness Areas
