Phê Vé
April 15, 2026 • 4 min read
Discover the stunning desert landscapes of California with an engaging itinerary and helpful information for Vietnamese travelers.
Overview of California's National Desert Monuments
In February 2016, President Barack Obama designated three locations in the Mojave Desert of eastern California as national monuments: Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Mountains. These areas encompass 1.7 million acres of breathtaking desert scenery, once inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Chemehuevi, Kawaiisu, and Mohave. Although not classified as national parks, these sites are still protected by the federal government.
The three monuments in California are known for their expansive, arid landscapes and are often less frequented by tourists. This makes a journey through Sand to Snow, Mojave Trails, and Castle Mountains one of the most remarkable experiences you can have in California, especially during the winter months when the weather is cooler.
Exploring the National Monuments
The best way to experience these three locations is to start from Los Angeles via Interstate 10. After reaching Redlands, you will turn left onto Highway 38. The drive takes approximately two and a half hours, but keep in mind that navigating through the parks can take longer as maps indicate the entry points for each monument.
You can also add other destinations like Joshua Tree National Park or the areas around Big Bear Lake, which offer more accommodation options. From there, it takes about three hours to reach Mojave Trails National Monument.
Sand to Snow National Monument
Sand to Snow National Monument, the southernmost of the three national monuments, covers about 154,000 acres. This area borders the Sonoran Desert and San Bernardino National Forest. Here, you’ll find approximately 30 miles of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, perfect for day hikes or trekking adventures.
If you’re up for a challenging yet stunning hike, the 16-mile San Bernardino Peak Trail is a must-try. This is one of the toughest trails, ascending over 4,000 feet and offering breathtaking views of San Gorgonio Peak, the highest point in Southern California. However, this trail is typically only accessible during the summer or early fall.
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Mojave Trails National Monument
Mojave Trails National Monument spans 1.6 million acres, making it the largest national monument in the contiguous United States. The town of 29 Palms, located about 50 minutes away, serves as the main gateway to this monument and leverages tourism for economic growth. From here, visitors can explore the desert's diverse ecosystem, home to wildlife such as coyotes, jackrabbits, and various bird species.
A popular hike is to Amboy Crater, one of the youngest volcanoes in the U.S., with a trail of about three miles. There are also numerous other trails for those wishing to delve deeper into the Bigelow Cholla Garden Wilderness or Afton Canyon.
Castle Mountains National Monument
Castle Mountains National Monument is located very close to Mojave National Preserve and is covered by Joshua trees. It attracts visitors with its pristine beauty, but lacks visitor centers or essential amenities, so it's important to come well-prepared.
The road into Castle Mountains is primarily rough dirt, making exploration by car the best way to enjoy the scenery. While there are no designated trails, you can wander around, but be cautious of hazards like cacti and scorpions.
Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
To reach California, you can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles, with ticket prices ranging from 15 million to 25 million VND depending on the time of year and airline. Don’t forget to check visa requirements before your trip; with a U.S. tourist visa, you can stay for up to 90 days. The best time to visit these monuments is from October to April when the weather is most pleasant.
Additionally, make sure to bring food and water when visiting these wild areas, as there are few rest stops offering limited services. It is advisable to camp overnight in designated areas for safety.
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the untamed beauty of the California desert. Start planning your trip today!
Reference and edited from: Matador Network
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