The deserts of the United States hold a special allure, with their otherworldly landscapes, vast expenses, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey to unearth the remote desert treasures of the USA.

From the scorching sands of Death Valley to the surreal dunes of White Sands and the awe-inspiring canyons of – you guessed it – Canyonland, you will get a sneak peek at these remarkable desert destinations. Prepare to discover their unique geology and fascinating wildlife, and unravel the mysteries that make these extreme landscapes truly extraordinary.

But First – A Few Helpful Tips

Because visiting America’s breathtaking deserts can be a challenge – and, at times, potentially even dangerous – it’s important to be well-prepared for your trip. For instance, if you’re planning to explore far and wide at your desert destination, and you only have an old station wagon at home, then you may want to consider leaving your car at your local airport and hiring an SUV to go on arduous desert forays. Don’t worry – you can find convenient and affordable airport spaces wherever you’re departing from; for example, if you’re flying out from JFK, you can easily find low-cost parking near JFK Airport with the help of Rightway Parking.

You should also carefully consider when to go on your desert adventure in the first place. In places like Death Valley, where the temperatures are notoriously scorching, it may be best to go during spring or fall.

Finally, make sure you pack everything you need to stay safe, hydrated, and comfortable – from hydration packs and plenty of SPF to a first aid kit, a flashlight, and non-perishable snacks. Now you’re well-prepared and ready to go, let’s explore some of the dramatic desert locations you can set your sights on across the US.

Death Valley National Park

Our desert adventure begins in Death Valley National Park, where extremes collide to create a mesmerizing landscape. With its rugged mountains, vast salt flats, and sizzling temperatures, Death Valley boasts the lowest point in North America, known as Badwater Basin. At 282 feet below sea level, this eerie depression is covered with a thick coating of salt that resembles a layer of snow in the shimmering desert heat.

Once you’re done marveling at Badwater’s snowy grandeur, you can move on to discover the iconic Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and witness the radiant colors of Artists Drive, where oxidizing metal deposits have created stunning peacock shades of blue, purple, and green.

While you’re exploring Death Valley, keep your eyes peeled for its many remarkable species of plant, bird, and animal – such as the iconic road runner, kangaroo rats, jackrabbits, and hardy bighorn sheep. You may even spot the rare Devil’s Hole pupfish, one of the rarest and toughest little fish in the world, capable of surviving the arduous conditions of the Hole that gives them their name.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Our desert dreaming takes an unexpected turn as we arrive at Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. Nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this unique desert landscape boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America.

Prepare to embark on a sandy adventure, whether it’s sandboarding down the slopes, hiking to the High Dune for panoramic views, or splashing in the cooling waters of the Medano Creek.

The juxtaposition of desert and alpine scenery in this popular national park is sure to provide you with some enchanting and truly unforgettable experiences that you’ll remember with fondness for many years to come.

White Sands National Park

Next, we traverse the rugged terrain of New Mexico to experience the wonders of White Sands National Park, a surreal desert paradise unlike any other.

Picture pristine, undulating dunes of gleaming white gypsum sand stretching as far as the eye can see. The ever-shifting sands create a mind-boggling landscape, characterized by ethereal patterns and sparkling brilliance.

Explore the park’s hiking trails, test your driving skills through the dunes, or try out exhilarating activities like sand sledding or stargazing under the dark desert skies. White Sands is a sanctuary of natural beauty that will leave you in awe.

Canyonlands National Park

In the remote desert expanses of Utah, Canyonlands National Park awaits with its breathtaking vistas and rugged canyons. Divided into four distinct districts, the park offers an array of unique landscapes. Discover the dramatic cliffs and towering pinnacles of the mesa aptly dubbed ‘Island in the Sky’, explore the intricate labyrinthine canyons of the Maze district, or venture into the isolated beauty of the Needles District.

You can hike to iconic viewpoints like Mesa Arch or Green River Overlook, where the vastness of the desert unfolds before your eyes. Canyonlands is a testament to the power of erosion, carving out a beguiling natural masterpiece in the heart of Utah.

Joshua Tree National Park

Venturing into the almost mystical realm of Joshua Tree, you will encounter a desert oasis where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge.

Named after the unique Joshua trees that dot the landscape, this national park offers stunning rock formations, breathtaking vistas, and a chance to spot the desert’s fascinating native flora and fauna. Explore hidden trails that lead to secluded valleys and marvel at the bewitching beauty of Skull Rock and Keys View, which offers jaw-dropping views of the San Andreas Fault and the Coachella Valley.

Joshua Tree National Park is a haven for hikers, rock climbers, photography enthusiasts, and stargazers alike, with its enchanting desert landscapes and star-filled night skies.

Saguaro National Park

Our desert dreams take us, at last, to Saguaro National Park, where the iconic saguaro cacti dominate the landscape.

Nestled in the midst of southern Arizona, this park showcases the remarkable beauty and resilience of these towering giants. Hike through the desert trails surrounded by a sea of saguaros or drive along scenic routes that offer panoramic views.

Explore the lush Rincon Mountain District or the majestic saguaro forests of the Tucson Mountain District. Witness the desert come to life as vibrant wildflowers bloom in the spring. Saguaro National Park is a desert wonderland where the spiky sentinels stand as a symbol of the American Southwest.

Final Thoughts

The remote desert treasures of the USA beckon with their raw beauty and extraordinary landscapes. From the scorching sands of Death Valley to the ethereal dunes of White Sands, and the majestic canyons of Canyonlands, these desert destinations offer a captivating blend of geology, wildlife, and serenity.

Exploring these remote desert landscapes reveals a world of wonder, inspiring a deep appreciation for the natural forces that shape our planet. So, let your desert wonderings guide you on an unforgettable journey as you unearth the hidden gems of America’s deserts, where the beauty of the barren captures the essence of discovery and adventure.