Desert landscapes are more diverse and vibrant than you may think. These unique ecosystems are more than just hot weather and scorpions in the sand. Few places prove this point better than Tucson, Arizona’s Saguaro National Park.
At first glance, this park may seem like your average desert. Dust, rocks, and cacti cover the land. But the longer you look, the more you’ll see. Flowers bloom from the cactus plants. Tortoises snack on prickly pears. Saguaro National Park is alive with a world of fascinating plants and animals. Get to know a few of these species in this photo guide to the park’s wildlife.
In Nevada, an icon known as the Wendover Will Neon Cowboy greets visitors passing through the small town of West Wendover. This cowboy and the surrounding city act as a gateway for travelers preparing to cross the Nevada-Utah border on their way to the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Located in Wendover, Utah, the Bonneville Salt Flats spans 30,000 acres. As the name suggests, this area is a flat landscape with a white, salty crust. During dry summers, Bonneville Speedweek brings fast cars and motorcycles to the desert. During wet autumns, reflective pools make the region a photographer’s paradise. Year-round, you can experience this magnificent attraction for free. Plan your visit with these travel tips.
Photo by Charles Knowles
What to expect from the Flats
Find this landmark about an hour and a half outside of Salt Lake City. If you arrive during sunrise or sunset, look forward to seeing the salt flats at their most beautiful. During these times of day, the crackly white salt picks up color from the sky above. In the wet season, this effect is even more pronounced, as the slick surfaces reflect the sunlight.
While the wet season views welcome sightseers and photographers, dry season invites adventurers looking for a race or scenic drive. The most notable Bonneville Salt Flats racing event is known as Speedweek. According to the Bureau of Land Management, “the unique geological features of the flats create an ideal surface for high-speed racing, attracting daredevils with a passion for innovation and velocity.” Other local racing events include motorcycle speed trials and off-road racing.
No matter what you visit the Bonneville Salt Flats for, come prepared. The Salt Flats Rest Area on I-80 is one of the few places nearby to find water and restrooms. Luckily for tourists, the westbound rest stop offers excellent views of the Flats and a water spray station to get salt off your shoes.
Within western Texas’s Chihuahuan Desert, a gorgeous mountain range serves as the centerpiece of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Home to the four highest peaks in Texas, this park treats visitors to diverse landscapes and fascinating natural wonders. Here’s what you need to know about the best things to do and see in this stunning region.
Located near Dell City, Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park stretches across 86,000 acres. The diverse landscapes range from meadows and forests to mountains and deserts. For outdoorsy explorers, it’s the perfect place to spend a day adventuring. Plan your trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park with this list of the region’s best things to do and see.
