The smallest and driest of North American deserts, the Mojave Desert sits in the shadows of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west with the mighty Sonoran Desert on its south and east boundaries. Home to the sculptural Joshua tree and Joshua Tree National Park, the Mojave is also known for being home to Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon, and Lake Mead. Although temperatures are extreme here, it is a popular tourist destination, and Happy Trails Rentals is proud to introduce its guests to the beauty of the Mojave.
Go Off-Road
The Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is where off-road devotees head for outdoor fun and off-road riding adventures. The OHV area has almost 100,000 acres of open trails, and offers exciting off-roading for all skill levels. This beautiful high desert area features dusty valleys, rocky mountains, sand dunes, dry lake beds, silty washes, and large, craggy rock formations.
For off-road buffs, Happy Trails uses Polaris RZR UTVs for all its off-roading tours. Happy Trail’s mission is to “share the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert.” Their UTVs let you travel the desert safely while enjoying your off-road experience and getting up close and personal with the Mojave.
The Tours
Off-road tours can be self-guided or guided. For their self-guided tours, you are provided with a pre-programmed GPS route to use as a guide. You’re free to explore the Mojave at your own pace. There are several self-guided tours to choose from, of various lengths and skill levels, including the Scavenger Quest (especially popular with families).
Private guided tours include their popular Sunset & Stargazing Tour where you’ll realize there really isn’t a better spot to stargaze than the Mojave. You head off late in the afternoon to a secluded location high in the desert to watch the colorful sunset. After the last rays of the sun fade away, it’s off to a private dry lakebed and a roaring campfire where you’ll enjoy s’mores and do some serious stargazing. Other tours include the Johnson Valley Tour and the beautiful Rattlesnake Canyon Trail.
The Details
Visit their website (happytrailsrental.com) for tips (and a checklist) on what to bring with you on your Mojave adventure. Happy Trails is located about two hours from Palm Springs, at 32838 Old Women Springs Road, Lucerne Valley, California.
It’s easy to book your off-roading adventure in the Mojave on their website. Still have questions? Email them at ben@happytrailsrental.com or give them a call (760-993-5050).
