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DesertUSA is a guide to the American Southwest. Our stories feature topics ranging from rockhounding and boating to desert parks and unique points of interest. DesertUSA’s content includes in depth information about the natural history of the desert regions of the United States.
Fall Colors
Eastern Sierra
A dirt road makes its way past undulating aspens in fall foliage on the way to a beaver pond and Lundy Lake, 45 miles north of Mammoth Lakes. Standing in the golden corridor of Lundy Lake Road, a tunnel of crooked aspens with dancing yellow leaves leads me toward the lake. Dark mountains skirted with fall color are reflected in the polished surface and a hint of woodsmoke is further proof that it is indeed fall. Read more…
Where to Go and Where to Stay
Driving Tours and Where to Stay to See Fall Colors in the Eastern Sierras
From the Mammoth Lakes area with its sightseeing destinations like Devils Postpile National Monument, Minaret Vista, Rainbow Falls, Minaret Falls, Mammoth Museum; its historic mine sites and scenic gondola rides to the June Lake loop and Lee Vining, here are ideas to help plan your fall road trip. Read more…
Pegleg’s Gold
The fabled legend of Pegleg’s lost mine
It is said that more men have sought Pegleg’s black nuggets than any other lost mine. There are multiple versions of the Pegleg legend as well as other stories of black nuggets that seem to correlate with some of the facts stated in Pegleg lore. Pegleg Smith was a rugged mountain man who traded furs and supplies, rustled horses and trapped beaver. Pegleg, also known as Thomas Smith, lost his leg to an arrow during a trapping expedition in the fall of 1827. After his leg was amputated, his friends fashioned him a wooden leg, thus earning him the name Pegleg. Read more …
Coyote FAQs
All the most asked questions, answered
How can you protect your cat or dog from coyotes?
Do coyotes jump fences or walls?
Do coyotes attack people?
What to do if you see a coyote?
Do coyotes attack livestock?
How can you protect your livestock from coyote attacks?
What do coyotes eat?
Where do coyotes take their kill to eat it?
and more… Read more…
News
- Stateline Auxiliary Ramp Partially Opening September 23 at Glen Canyon
- Public Encouraged to Attend Virtual California Condor Release Due to Increased COVID-19 Transmission in Local Area
- River Mountains Loop Trail Repairs and Partial Closure at Lake Mead
- Hikers urged to consider canine safety on local trails
Critter Cam Trail Footage
The secret lives of animals.
If you’re looking for a fun thing to do with your kids, check out our “Break-at-Home” geode kits. This hands on rockhounding experience is a great way for kids to learn about geology, how geodes are formed and to experience the excitement of discovery when they break one open. Learn more about “Break-at-Home” geodes.
An adventure through time. Explore the route used by pioneers on their way to California. The Mojave Road lets your SUV act as a time machine, guiding you on a trail that stretches for 138 miles through country virtually unchanged since prehistoric times. Learn more about the Mojave Road Guide by Dennis Casebier.
