The Mojave Trails National Monument safeguards 1.6 million acres of the Mojave Desert’s rich ecological, geological, and cultural heritage in southeastern California. This vast preserve offers solitude, wildflower displays, historic sites, and unparalleled opportunities for desert exploration.
Overview
The Mojave Trails National Monument, designated by President Barack Obama in 2016, extends across approximately 1.6 million acres—making it the largest national monument in the lower 48 states. It conserves a diverse array of desert habitats, including ancient volcanic formations, historic travel routes, and rare plant and animal species.
- The monument connects several existing protected areas, including the Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park, creating an extensive network of desert conservation .
- It includes over 350,000 acres of previously designated wilderness areas and additional lands managed for conservation and recreation .
- The monument preserves segments of historic Route 66, the Old Spanish Trail, and the Mojave Road—each integral to the region’s human history .
Plan Your Visit
While not as developed as some national parks, the Mojave Trails National Monument offers remote desert experiences that reward preparation and a spirit of adventure.
Historic Route 66 California Gateway Site Day Use Area
Located about two miles west of the Colorado River off Interstate 40, this day-use area commemorates the legendary Route 66.
- Visitors can enjoy picnicking and exploring interpretive exhibits on the history of the “Mother Road” .
- The site provides a gateway to understanding the cultural impact of the highway on the Mojave Desert and beyond .
Trilobite Wilderness
The Trilobite Wilderness spans approximately 62,790 acres and is characterized by the Marble Mountains—a volcanic range with striking geological features.
- The area is noted for its abundance of fossilized trilobites and other ancient sea creatures embedded in the rock formations .
- Rugged terrain and remote canyons offer opportunities for experienced backpackers and geology enthusiasts .
Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark
Amboy Crater is a prominent volcanic cinder cone rising 250 feet above the surrounding desert.
- Formed about 10,000 years ago, the 1,500-foot-wide crater is a striking landscape feature visible for miles .
- Visitors can hike to the rim for panoramic views of the Mojave Desert and explore unique volcanic terrain .
Kelso Depot Visitor Center
Although located within the nearby Mojave National Preserve, the Kelso Depot Visitor Center is a key hub for exploring the broader region.
- The center offers exhibits on desert ecology, railroad history, and the geology of the Mojave region .
- While currently undergoing renovations, it remains an important resource for orientation and trip planning in the area .
Management & Conservation
The Mojave Trails National Monument is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with a focus on preserving its wilderness character, cultural sites, and ecological integrity.
- Management strategies emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect sensitive desert ecosystems and promote sustainable recreation .
- The monument supports research, education, and stewardship programs to enhance understanding of desert environments and their conservation needs .
- Coordination with adjacent protected areas ensures landscape-scale conservation and the protection of migratory species and ecological processes .
Ecology & Geology
The monument encompasses a variety of desert ecosystems, including Joshua tree woodlands, volcanic landscapes, and arid grasslands.
- Fossil sites, such as those in the Trilobite Wilderness, reveal the region’s ancient marine history and geological evolution .
- Volcanic features like Amboy Crater highlight recent geological activity and contribute to the monument’s unique topography .
- The area provides habitat for threatened species such as the desert tortoise and supports diverse plant and animal communities adapted to harsh desert conditions .
Additional Resources
For more information on planning your visit, current conditions, and monument management, consider the following resources:
- Bureau of Land Management – Mojave Trails National Monument
- Mojave National Preserve – NPS
- Joshua Tree National Park – NPS
- Amboy Crater – BLM
- Trilobite Wilderness – BLM
- Historic Route 66 California Gateway Site – BLM
These links offer guidance on exploring the monument’s vast landscapes, engaging with its history, and enjoying its natural beauty .
Links
Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025
