Getting Oriented in Mojave Desert

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• Lancaster. Poppies and aerospace tech (including Edwards Air Force Base) thrive in and near this western Mojave hub.
• Red Rock Canyon State Park. Colorful formations, Native American heritage, and mining history converge in an eerily gorgeous setting.
• Ridgecrest. A gateway to Death Valley, the northern Mojave's largest town is a welcome oasis near Trona Pinnacles and Petroglyph Canyons.
• Randsburg. Wander the well-preserved streets of a historic mining town.
• Victorville. Experience the Mother Road at the California Route 66 Museum.
• Barstow. Visit the Mojave's “capital” to explore museums (many in the restored Harvey House depot) and Calico Ghost town.
• Mojave National Preserve. Ancient lava beds, rare plants and animals, and towering dunes are among this 1.6-million-acre sanctuary's sights.