Boulders in the Desert

Boulders stacked one on top of the other in a desert plain gives an otherworldly impression. Some boulders are remnants of volcanic projectiles from long ago, while some are exposed by the wind and water as the ground erodes around them. Not all deserts have boulders, but others, such as Joshua Tree National Park are known for them.

  1. Granite Mountain Boulders

    • The Granite Mountain Boulders rest on top of the Van Winkle Mountains in the Mojave Desert. They are comprised of 20 million-year-old volcanic rock that has created a fractured mountain range. A recreation area surrounds the mountains, providing a space for campers and hikers to enjoy the rocky playground.

    Joshua Tree National Park

    • Joshua Tree National Park, east of Los Angeles, rests in the western region of the Mojave Desert. The park is home to the Joshua tree; a tall, spiny, top-heavy tree with an extensive root system. The region also is a mecca for rock climbing enthusiasts who journey many miles to scale the boulders. Rock climbing has a tradition of giving climbs names and levels, so climbers know what they are getting themselves into before they start; a good example is the "Towers of Uncertainty." However, like any other organic substances, rock is susceptible to wear and tear, so these climbs are sometimes shut down to protect the park's environment.

    White Desert Mushroom Boulders

    • Egypt's White Desert, outside the city of Farafra, is home to mushroom cloud boulders that explode out of the desert ground. The white boulders are formed of white chalk and soft limestone. The high-speed winds blow the sand around the base of the boulders, carving out a stem that creates the mushroom effect. The desert is frequented by visitors, and guided tours are offered throughout the year.

    Utah Red Rocks

    • The red rock canyons of Southern Utah, home to breathtaking rock formations, are a well-traveled area of the Southwestern United States. Most of the red rock is exposed by deep canyons. But over the years, large chunks of the rock have broken off to leave behind bright red boulders. The red rock region is located in the northern border of the Mojave Desert and is evidence that a desert has many dynamic ecosystems.