Mojave National Preserve in south California lies 235 miles East of Los Angeles and 125 miles Southwest of Las Vegas. The Mojave National Preserve is regarded as the meeting place for three of the four great American deserts - the Sonoran, Mojave and Great Basin. The preserves 1.4 million acres of land consists of world's largest Joshua tree forest, abundant of wildlife, spectacular caverns, canyons and volcanic formations along with scenic back roads and footpaths to historic mining sites and several mountain ranges. The most un-spoilt and unpopulated region of the preserve is the East Mojave, and a large expanse between I-40 and I-15 containing much scenic and unusual terrain has been protected for many years as a National Scenic Area. Within these bounds are lava fields, cinder cones, sand dunes, playas, mesas, and at least seven mountain ranges.
*Mojave National Preserve consists of several features of interest, for example, the Teutonia Peak which is the highest point is a popular hiking destination. Cima Dome is a gently rounded granites dome covered with one of the finest Joshua tree woodlands in the world. The Clark Mountain is the highest mountain in the Mojave Desert. The Cinder Cones consist of at least 32 extinct volcanoes and have been designated a National Natural Landmark. Along with these there are several other features that are unique to the preserve and the area is popular for hiking. Kelso Dunes in Mojave National Preserve rise 600 feet and are the third tallest in North America. There is no entrance fee currently. There are no horse rentals currently so horse riders should bring your own horses.
Official site: nps.gov/moja/
Visitor Information: (760) 252-6100
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