Hikes in the California Desert

The California desert contains volcanic craters, sand dunes, oases, and some of the most fascinating geology in the United States. The best way to see many of these features is on foot. Choose a trail from the list below and begin exploring the California desert. Four excellent parks combine to protect 8,500 square miles of California desert: Death Valley National Park Mojave National Preserve Joshua Tree National Park Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Highlights of the California Desert [wp_ad_wide_page] California Desert Hiking This collection of trails in the California desert lists the hikes from north to south. ... Read more.
Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley National Park
Ubehebe Crater is located in the north end of Death Valley National Park near the Eureka Dunes and Scotty's Castle. A parking lot along the rim provides a great view of the crater, and three trails offer even more. The Science Ubehebe Crater is a maar volcano that was created by a phreatic eruption two to seven thousand years ago. Hot magma converted groundwater into steam, which created an intense pressure and an intense explosion. ...Read more.
Tagged with · Craters · National Parks
Distance: 2 miles · Elevation change: 275 feet
By: Published: February 3, 2010 Last updated: December 5, 2025