Mojave National Preserve, California (May 2024)

The Mojave Desert is a vast arid region in the southwestern United States, primarily located in southeastern California and southern Nevada, with smaller portions extending into Utah and Arizona. The Mojave National Preserve protects over 6'000 km² of desert wilderness marked by rugged mountain ranges, expansive valleys, and iconic Joshua trees, which are endemic to the region. The desert's diverse fauna and flora is adapted to the harsh environment, supporting a variety of plant and animal species that have evolved to survive in extreme temperatures and scarce water resources.