22-Day Roadtrip Through The Far West — Day 12: Mojave Desert

Previous day — Day 11: Route 66

After catching a glimpse of Route 66, we plan to continue on it today as far as Barstow, California. But first we’ll be stopping off in Mojave for a trail ride in the Kelso Dunes. I won’t even mention how we woke up and the jet lag, as we’ve now got used to it and are sleeping more or less normally.

So we set off for the Kelso Dunes straight after breakfast. We take a few photos in Mojave on the way, notably of the Joshua Trees, which are native to this region and have gradually spread to other states.

We arrive at Kelso Dunes around 12 p.m. It’s 40°C, and the hike is going to be complicated, so we equip ourselves well and take plenty of water. We begin the hike, which in the end is bearable thanks to the wind. The climb up the dunes is a bit physical though, as the slope is very steep, and we sink into the sand with every step, which prevents us from moving forward properly. You also have to watch out for snakes and scorpions, so watch your step carefully to avoid putting your foot in a hole where an animal is hiding.