Trona Pinnacles - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

This is a former mining and recreational property from the 1940s to the 1960s, it is infamous due to its association with Charles Manson and his "family". It is located inside Death Valley National Park in eastern California. There is a small one-room guest house located to the side of the main house. There is also a five-thousand-gallon "swimming pool" made from cement and rock boulders towards the back of the property.

Mengel Pass is a long and moderately difficult trail located in the Death Valley area. This Pass, is unpaved. It’s called Coyote Canyon Road. Road conditions are always changing. Experienced 4WD drivers only. Section over both sides of Mengel Pass is challenging, steep and rutted. Its harsh weather and terrain can be challenging, but its reward of solitude and spectacular scenery warrants the trip.

A unique geological feature created by the volcanic activity in the mountain range, along with meltwater from glaciers in the nearby Sierra Nevada.

Telescope Peak is the highest point within Death Valley National Park. From atop this desert mountain one can see for over one hundred miles in many directions, including west to Mount Whitney, and east to Charleston Peak. It is also notable for having one of the greatest vertical rises above local terrain of any mountain in the contiguous United States. Hiking Telescope Peak by the normal route involves a 14 miles round trip hike.

Rainbow Basin is a geological formation in the Calico Peaks range, located approximately 8 miles north of Barstow in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino. It has been designated a National Natural Landmark and is in the Bureau of Land Management. The basin is notable for: the fantastic and beautiful shapes of its rock formations: its fossil beds, which have provided scientists with valuable information about life during the middle Miocene epoch.

Inyo National Forest is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With over two million acres of land, this forest is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the state. From snow-capped mountains to lush green forests, Inyo has something for everyone. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or just looking for a weekend adventure, this forest is the perfect place. And let me tell you, the hiking trails here are not for the faint of heart.