Mojave National Preserve
Mojave National Preserve (MNP), a 1.5 million-acre park
created by the California Desert Protection Act, is the southern most of two
new parks created by the 1994 legislation. The 3.3 million-acre Death Valley
National Park, located some 100 miles north of Mojave National Preserve, is the
northern brother to the MNP. Death Valley contains some equally thrilling
destinations, such as Scotty’s Castle, Dante’s View, and Stove Pipe Wells. A
few of the exciting natural wonders within the Mojave National Preserve
include:
Spring Wild Flowers in the East Mojave
Desert
Kelso Dunes: The 45-square miles of sand
dunes were formed over a millennia as westerly winds blew sand from the Mojave
River floodplain. The dunes are more than 600 feet high in some areas, making
this the third highest dune system in the U.S. Their smooth, shimmering contours
form a visual counterpoint to the surrounding rugged terrain. Visitors can
climb the dunes, which takes up to 2 hours to reach the top. From there, the
hiker can scan the area for tacks of local inhabitants, such as jack rabbits,
kangaroo rats, tortoises, rattlesnakes, and lizards.
Cima Dome: Cima Dome is the remnant of a magmatic
instrusive batholith, about 10 miles in diameter. The 75-square mile thrust of
molten rock has since been rounded by centuries of wind and water erosion.
Mitchell Caverns: limestone caves created by rainwater give the visitor
hours of fascinating exploration.. Rangers lead 90-minute excursions through
the caverns and narrow passageways.
New York Mountains: The New York mountains, named
after their impressive skyline backdrop, serve as the southeastern rim of the
Ivanpah Valley. Juniper and pinyon pine dominate the landscape that provides
for hiking, camping, and picturesque views of the valley. Old mining operations
also allow for limited exploration in this area.
Joshua Trees: Throughout the MNP, Joshua trees abound on the valley
floor forming a unique forest that is unparalleled, except for the strands in
the near-by Joshua Tree National Park. The trees, named by early settlers,
resemble stunted, wizened palms, with their branches raised into the sky like
the biblical figure lifting his arms to the heavens.
Joshua Tree Strand
Related Web Articles/Sites:
Desert USA.com
(Mojave National Preserve)
Points of Interest: Mojave National Preserve
Native Plants
of the Mojave Desert
Lodging: