Mojave Desert, Mojave National Preserve, California

One of the last major stops on my journey west on '66 was a detour to the Mojave Desert. Although I was unable to make it to the top in time for sunset (climbing sand dunes is exceptionally difficult!), I managed to find a nice plateau about 1/3 of the way up as seen here. I then lay on the dune for a while watching the sun go down, an experience I won't forget in a hurry. Nor will I forget that I nearly stepped on a rattlesnake on the way back to the car!