We entered the Wildlife Refuge from the western entrance (off of Rte 372 north) to minimize the amount of driving on the roads here (as all roads in the Refuge are gravel). This is when we wish we had a four-wheel drive vehicle!
Our first stop was at the Crystal Reservoir (at a different location than our previous visit) that is fed by Crystal Spring.
This is the northern edge of the reservoir.
Tracks of water fowl and other desert critters can be seen around the edges of the body of water.
We hiked south on the trail on the west side to the southern end of the reservoir. Autumn has come to the desert.
We explored some of the desert to the west of the reservoir. There are salt deposits along with some marshy areas...very interesting terrain.
Picnic tables can be found near the Visitor Center. We enjoyed our lunch in the beautiful setting of the Wildlife Refuge. Because it was near the area where we ate, we strolled along the boardwalk that follows Crystal Spring.
Can you see how clear the water is?
And right next to this lovely stream is this arid, desert terrain.
Every minute 2,800 gallons of fresh water flows into this spring from the limestone aquifer at this location. The water is a constant 87 degrees.
Sadie was fascinated by the lizards she saw along the boardwalk! And wanted to chase them, but, of course, it is not permitted!
We left Ash Meadows the same we came, via the western entrance. On our way back to Pahrump, NV, (where we are staying), we drove a short distance into the Refuge from the southern entrance. There is an amazing area of green (and I mean, really green!) rock formations that I wanted to see.
This concluded our visit to Ash Meadows today. We may return yet again before we leave the area. Admission to this National Wildlife Refuge is free. All roads are unpaved and there are no services in the refuge (no food, fuel, camping, etc.) Bottled water is available at the Visitor Center.
Website: www.fws.gov/refuge/ash_meadows
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