A desert is an area that has very little rainfall, which results in uncommon vegetation, rock formations and wildlife. The desert provides a backdrop for a wide range of entertainment. The largest desert in the Unites States is The Great Basin, which spans across Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Oregon and California. Other states like Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Texas also offer desert fun. There are as many activities to experience as there are places to find them.
Appreciate diverse surroundings full of routes for rock climbers of all levels, from family groups to expert individuals. Websites like Desert USA.com divide information by state and offer suggestions on hiking trails and backpacking, as well as strange and stunning landscapes. If you're a newcomer to the activity, take a class. Delve into caves in places like New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns. The desert has just as much to offer below the surface as it does above.
Do you feel the need for speed? Pump some adrenaline into your desert adventure by watching dirt bike or motorcycle racing. If you have experience with fast vehicles then sign up online with websites like US Desert Racing.com and participate. If you're willing to try on land what some people do on water, go sand surfing. Sandboard.com has instructions on how to get started, various locations and event guides. Rent a dune buggy and drive around to see the sights or get one that comes with a tour guide. If a relaxed pace is more your speed, take a mule ride down into the Grand Canyon or a covered wagon tour in La Quinta, California.
Desert vistas offer multi-colored sunrises and sunsets. Bring out your artistic skills by getting into nature photography. The Living Desert in California's Palm Desert has gardens from arid regions in North America and Africa, as well as a wildlife show. Digital-Desert.com offers wildflower guides with photos. Join the Desert Rivers Audubon on its free field trips and observe sand dwellers in flight.
Explore the Palatki ruins of the Sinagua people and see their cliff dwellings with rock art near Sedona, Arizona. Watch the Native American ceremonies take place in the Pueblo of Taos, New Mexico.
Take advantage of unfettered skies and stargaze. Combine this activity with camping to observe the desert's gifts at night. Put the zip code of your location unto Wunderground.com and get a star map for your specific view. Stardate.org offers several beginners' guides to help you get started. Listen to one of its listed radio shows to get advice and tips. For overnight camping, be prepared for temperature drops with extra blankets and clothing. The lack of moisture in the ground and air causes the heat of the day to dissipate.
