Adventuring in the California Desert

Updated since I bought my 1987 edition this book is a wonderful one-volume introduction to California's desert regions. My battered, coffee-stained, spine-broken copy is the best testimony to its usefulness I can give. The overlong introductory section cuts down on space for regional descriptions but the advice is worth reading, especially the section on safety. Very strong on regions ouside the well-known parks the author encourages visitors to explore and hike on their own. The book is a well-rounded blend of information on flora, fauna, geology, history, hiking and 4WD touring. If you are new to desert exploration this book will break you in easily and safely.

Lynne Foster has done a great job here, describing many trips and day visits into nearly every corner of California's beautiful deserts. Nearly every region I am familiar with, she has covered quite well. Most people don't know the lonely horizons and vast silences awaiting those who get off the superhighways; the land is incredibly beautiful and not a little dangerous. Heed her words of caution, then take the book and your camera and see for yourself. Makes great armchair reading, too!