The Glamis region offers incredible adventures beyond the dunes
Beyond the Dunes: Discovering Glamis' Untold Adventures
While Glamis is world-renowned for its spectacular sand dunes and thrilling off-road adventures, the surrounding region holds a treasure trove of extraordinary experiences waiting to be discovered. From surreal art installations to otherworldly natural landscapes, this complete guide reveals the hidden gems that make a Glamis trip truly unforgettable.
Most visitors come to Glamis for one reason: the dunes. And rightfully so—the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area offers some of the most exhilarating off-road experiences in North America. But here's what many riders don't realize: you're sitting in the middle of one of California's most fascinating and underexplored regions.
Within an hour's drive of Glamis, you'll find a bizarre inland sea gradually disappearing, a technicolor mountain built by hand over three decades, an off-grid community where alternative lifestyles thrive, and access to one of America's most iconic national parks. The contrast between roaring across sand dunes and exploring these unique cultural and natural landmarks creates a travel experience unlike any other.
This guide takes you beyond the dunes to discover the full richness of the Glamis region. Whether you're taking a rest day from riding, traveling with non-riders, or simply want to add depth to your desert adventure, these attractions offer something for everyone. Let's explore the untold adventures that await just beyond the sand.
🗺️ Pro Tip: Plan a Multi-Day Adventure
Don't try to cram everything into one day. Consider extending your Glamis trip by 2-3 days to fully experience these attractions. Many riders dedicate weekends to the dunes and weekdays to exploration—or vice versa.
Natural Wonders: Desert Landscapes Beyond the Sand
The desert surrounding Glamis offers dramatic landscapes that rival the dunes themselves. From bizarre geological formations to one of California's most peculiar bodies of water, these natural attractions showcase the desert's raw beauty and ecological significance.
The Salton Sea: California's Accidental Ocean
Distance
25-35 miles north
30-40 min drive
Best For
Photography
Bird watching
Best Time
Sunrise/Sunset
Year-round
The Salton Sea is one of California's strangest and most fascinating destinations. This massive saline lake—larger than Lake Tahoe—was created by accident in 1905 when Colorado River floodwaters breached an irrigation canal and flowed into the Salton Basin for two years. What emerged was a 15-by-35-mile inland sea that became a popular resort destination in the 1950s and 60s.
Today, the Salton Sea presents an otherworldly landscape. As the lake recedes and becomes increasingly saline, it leaves behind beaches made of barnacle-encrusted rocks and ancient fish bones. The abandoned resort towns along its shores—Bombay Beach, Salton City, and others—create a post-apocalyptic aesthetic that attracts photographers, artists, and anyone drawn to unusual places.
What to Experience:
- Photography Paradise — Sunrise and sunset over the sea create ethereal reflections. The abandoned buildings and surreal shoreline offer endless creative opportunities.
- Bombay Beach — The most famous abandoned town, now home to artists and installations. Explore rusted boats, old motels, and spontaneous art pieces.
- Bird Watching — Over 400 bird species visit the Salton Sea, making it one of California's most important bird habitats. Peak migration seasons are spring and fall.
- Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge — Wetland trails and observation platforms for nature lovers and photographers.
Important Notes: The Salton Sea has strong odors from decaying organic matter, especially in summer. Visit early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and smells less intense. Bring water—there are no services. Respect private property in Bombay Beach and other communities.
Chocolate Mountains and Surrounding Wilderness
The Chocolate Mountains frame the western edge of the Glamis region with their distinctive brown peaks. While much of the range is within military reservations and off-limits to civilians, the accessible areas offer incredible desert hiking, geology tours, and scenic photography.
The mountains get their name from their rich brown color, created by volcanic rock and sedimentary layers. Desert wildflower blooms in spring (February-March) transform the landscape with pops of purple, yellow, and orange against the chocolate-colored backdrop.
Activities:
- • Scenic photography from Highway 78 overlooks
- • Desert wildflower viewing (peak: late February to March)
- • Rockhounding and geology exploration
- • Hiking in designated BLM wilderness areas
- • Sunset viewing from the eastern slopes
Artistic and Cultural Landmarks: Desert Creativity Unleashed
The harsh desert environment attracts artists, outsiders, and free spirits who create some of California's most unique cultural experiences. These installations and communities offer a stark contrast to the high-speed thrills of Glamis, showcasing human creativity and alternative lifestyles.
Salvation Mountain: Monument of Love and Faith
Distance
50 miles north
1 hour drive
Best For
Photos & Art
Instagram-worthy
Cost
FREE
Donations welcome
Salvation Mountain stands as one of America's most extraordinary folk art installations. This three-story high, 150-foot wide adobe structure was created by Leonard Knight over 30+ years using donated paint, hay bales, adobe clay, and unwavering devotion. Covered entirely in vibrant biblical messages and psychedelic colors, the mountain radiates "God Is Love" in massive letters visible from miles away.
Leonard Knight passed away in 2014, but volunteers continue maintaining his masterpiece. Walking through Salvation Mountain feels like entering a rainbow-colored dream. Every surface—the mountain itself, surrounding vehicles, trees, and structures—explodes with color, scripture, flowers, waterfalls, and religious imagery.
Visitor Experience:
- Photography Heaven — Every angle offers Instagram-worthy shots. Early morning and golden hour provide the best lighting.
- Climb the Mountain — Walk through the rooms and climb to the yellow brick road at the top. Volunteers often give informal tours.
- Museum Trailer — Learn about Leonard's life, vision, and the mountain's ongoing preservation.
- Support Preservation — Donations help maintain this fragile masterpiece. Paint and supplies are always needed.
Visitor Tips: No admission fee, but donations appreciated. Bring water and sun protection—there's no shade. Wear closed-toe shoes (the painted surface can be slippery). Be respectful of the religious themes even if not personally religious. The site is off Highway 111 near Slab City; follow signs from Niland.
Slab City: The Last Free Place in America
Adjacent to Salvation Mountain lies Slab City, an off-grid community built on the concrete slabs of abandoned Camp Dunlap, a WWII-era Marine training base. Nicknamed "The Last Free Place in America," Slab City has no electricity, running water, sewage system, or rent. It's home to snowbirds, artists, veterans, RVers, and anyone seeking to live outside conventional society.
The population swells from about 150 year-round residents to over 4,000 during winter months (November-March) when snowbirds escape colder climates. The community functions on informal rules, mutual respect, and self-reliance.
Key Attractions:
- East Jesus — An evolving art installation and sculpture garden made from desert junk and found objects. Volunteer artists continuously add to and modify the works. Open to respectful visitors; donations support the artists.
- The Range — An outdoor stage and amphitheater where Saturday night open mic performances happen during winter season. Musicians, poets, and performers showcase talents.
- Coquette's Playhouse — A quirky shower facility/art space offering solar-heated showers (donation basis) and spontaneous art events.
- The Library — A free lending library in an old school bus. Take a book, leave a book.
Important Etiquette:
- • Respect residents' privacy—this is their home, not a tourist attraction
- • Ask permission before photographing people or their property
- • Pack out all trash; leave no trace
- • Don't stare or treat residents like zoo animals
- • Support local artists by purchasing art or donating
- • Visit East Jesus and public spaces; avoid wandering into camps
- • Be aware this is an unregulated area—exercise normal precautions
Joshua Tree National Park: Desert Wonderland Day Trip
Distance
100-120 miles NW
2-2.5 hour drive
Best For
Hiking & Nature
Rock climbing
Entry Fee
$30 per vehicle
7-day pass
Joshua Tree National Park sits about 2-2.5 hours northwest of Glamis, making it feasible as a long day trip or perfect for an overnight excursion. This world-famous park protects a transition zone where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a unique ecosystem dominated by the park's namesake Joshua trees—bizarre, Dr. Seuss-like plants found nowhere else on Earth.
Why Visit from Glamis?
While Glamis offers adrenaline-pumping off-road action, Joshua Tree provides a completely different desert experience: serene, scenic, and spiritual. The contrast makes both experiences more memorable. Many Glamis visitors appreciate having a quieter, contemplative day between intense riding sessions.
Top Experiences in Joshua Tree:
- Joshua Tree Forests — See these prehistoric plants up close. Best groves: Hidden Valley, Lost Horse Valley, and Queen Valley.
- Rock Formations — Massive granite boulder piles create otherworldly landscapes. Don't miss Skull Rock, Arch Rock, and Jumbo Rocks.
- Hiking Trails — Short nature walks to challenging hikes. Favorites: Hidden Valley (1-mile loop), Barker Dam (1.3 miles), Ryan Mountain (3 miles, summit views).
- Keys View — Drive to 5,185-foot overlook for panoramic views across Coachella Valley to Salton Sea (on clear days).
- Stargazing — Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park. Night skies are spectacular. If camping overnight, bring a star map.
- Rock Climbing — World-class bouldering and traditional climbing. Even non-climbers enjoy watching climbers tackle routes.
Planning Your Joshua Tree Day Trip:
- Best Entrance from Glamis: Enter via south entrance near Cottonwood Spring (closest to Glamis route)
- Time Needed: Minimum 4-5 hours in park; full day trip including drive time
- Bring: Lots of water (1 gallon per person), snacks, sunscreen, hiking shoes, layers for temperature changes
- Cell Service: Limited to none in most areas. Download park map before entering.
- Gas Up: Fill tank before entering. Nearest gas stations are in Twentynine Palms or Indio.
- Best Season: October-April for mild weather (same as Glamis season!)
Consider staying overnight in nearby Yucca Valley or Joshua Tree town to split the drive and enjoy sunset/sunrise in the park—both are magical.
Imperial Valley: Agricultural Heartland and Local Culture
The Imperial Valley produces over $2 billion in crops annually, making it one of America's most productive agricultural regions. Understanding this agricultural heritage adds context to your Glamis experience and offers unique cultural insights.
Towns and Communities Worth Exploring
El Centro (35 miles west, 40 min)
Imperial County's largest city and commercial hub. Good for resupplying, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
- • Imperial Valley Mall for shopping
- • Authentic Mexican restaurants (border is 10 miles south)
- • Imperial Valley Desert Museum (regional history and nature exhibits)
- • Full grocery stores, auto parts, and services
Brawley (25 miles northwest, 30 min)
Known as "Cattle Capital of the West" with strong agricultural identity.
- • Historic downtown with murals depicting farming history
- • Cattle Call Rodeo (November) - major regional event
- • Local diners with classic American fare
- • Gateway to northern Imperial Valley farm roads
Holtville (30 miles southwest, 35 min)
Small agricultural town known for its annual Carrot Festival.
- • Carrot Festival (February) - quirky celebration with carrot recipes
- • Holt Park - pleasant spot for picnics
- • Small-town America atmosphere
Calexico (45 miles southwest, 50 min)
Border city offering rich Mexican-American culture and cross-border experiences.
- • Walk across border to Mexicali, Mexico (bring passport if you want to go beyond border zone)
- • Authentic border cuisine and street food
- • Shopping for Mexican crafts and goods
- • Bilingual, bicultural atmosphere
Agricultural Tourism: The Imperial Valley grows lettuce, carrots, onions, broccoli, and more in winter months when other regions can't. Driving through the valley reveals massive farms creating a patchwork of green against the brown desert—a striking visual contrast. Some farms offer seasonal u-pick experiences.
Historical Sites and Museums
The Imperial Valley and surrounding desert have rich histories spanning Native American inhabitation, Spanish exploration, American settlement, agricultural development, and military activity. These sites tell the region's story.
Recommended Museums:
- Imperial Valley Desert Museum (El Centro)
Explores valley history from prehistoric times through agricultural development. Features Native American artifacts, pioneer exhibits, and natural history displays.
- Pioneers Museum (Imperial)
Located in old Imperial County Courthouse, showcases early settlement, farming innovations, and Colorado River water history that made the valley possible.
- General Patton Memorial Museum (Indio/Desert Center area)
Commemorates WWII desert training exercises. General Patton trained troops for North Africa campaign in these deserts. Military vehicle displays and historical exhibits.
Community Events and Festivals
Timing your Glamis trip with local events adds another dimension to your experience. From massive off-road gatherings to quirky small-town festivals, there's always something happening in the region.
Annual Events Calendar:
October-April: Glamis Dunes Season
Peak off-roading season brings major events and huge crowds on holiday weekends.
- • Halloween Weekend - One of busiest weekends (costumes common!)
- • Thanksgiving Weekend - Massive turnout, book early
- • New Year's Weekend - Fireworks displays and celebrations throughout dunes
- • Presidents' Day Weekend - Peak season crowd
- • Spring Break (March) - Younger crowd, party atmosphere
November: Cattle Call Rodeo (Brawley)
Major regional rodeo celebrating ranching heritage. Pro rodeo events, parade, carnival, and western culture celebration.
February: Holtville Carrot Festival
Quirky celebration of carrot farming industry. Carrot recipe contests, parade, carnival rides, and more carrots than you ever imagined possible.
March: Imperial Valley Expo & Fair
Traditional county fair with livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, carnival, concerts, and local food vendors.
Year-Round: Off-Road Racing Events
Various sanctioned races and competitions throughout the season. Check BLM Imperial Sand Dunes website for event calendar.
Event Planning Tip: Major holiday weekends at Glamis can see 100,000+ visitors. If you prefer smaller crowds, visit mid-week or non-holiday weekends. Conversely, if you enjoy the festival atmosphere, holiday weekends deliver an unforgettable party scene.
Planning Your Extended Glamis Adventure
Combining Glamis dune riding with exploration of nearby attractions creates a richer, more memorable trip. Here are sample itineraries for different trip lengths:
3-Day Weekend Trip
5-Day Extended Trip
7-Day Ultimate Experience
This itinerary balances intense riding days with rest/exploration days, preventing burnout and giving non-riders activities too.
Tips for Multi-Day Planning:
- •Build in rest days - Desert riding is physically demanding. Even experienced riders benefit from recovery days.
- •Consider non-riders - If traveling with family/friends who don't ride, sightseeing days keep everyone happy.
- •Vehicle maintenance - Schedule a mid-trip maintenance day to check your vehicle, change oil, inspect parts.
- •Resupply runs - Use sightseeing days to visit El Centro or Brawley for groceries, ice, and supplies.
- •Weather flexibility - If wind makes riding unpleasant, pivot to sightseeing instead of forcing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do near Glamis besides off-roading?
Near Glamis, you can visit the Salton Sea, explore Salvation Mountain art installation, experience Slab City alternative community, take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, tour Imperial Valley's agricultural heartland, and attend local festivals and events throughout the season.
How far is Salvation Mountain from Glamis?
Salvation Mountain is approximately 50 miles north of Glamis, about a 1-hour drive. It's located near Slab City off Highway 111, making it an easy day trip from the dunes or a perfect stop on your way to/from Glamis.
Can you visit Joshua Tree National Park from Glamis?
Yes! Joshua Tree National Park is about 100-120 miles northwest of Glamis, roughly a 2-2.5 hour drive. It makes an excellent day trip or overnight excursion if you have extra time during your Glamis visit. The drive takes you through interesting desert landscapes.
Is the Salton Sea worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Salton Sea offers a unique, otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else in California. It's a photographer's paradise with interesting history, excellent bird watching opportunities, and stunning desert vistas. It's only 30-40 minutes from Glamis, making it an easy half-day trip.
What is Slab City?
Slab City is an off-grid community built on abandoned military base slabs, known as "The Last Free Place in America." It's home to RVers, artists, veterans, and alternative lifestyle enthusiasts. Features include East Jesus sculpture garden, The Range performance space, and various art installations. Visitors are welcome but should be respectful—it's people's homes.
Are there restaurants near Glamis?
At Glamis itself, there are no restaurants—it's primitive camping. The nearest dining options are in Brawley (30 min), El Centro (40 min), or smaller towns like Holtville. El Centro offers the most variety including chain restaurants, Mexican food, and local diners. Plan to bring most food or be prepared to drive for meals.
What's the best season to explore these attractions?
October through April offers the best weather for both Glamis riding and sightseeing. Summer temperatures exceed 110°F, making outdoor exploration dangerous. Spring (March-April) adds wildflower blooms to desert landscapes. Winter (December-February) provides comfortable hiking weather at Joshua Tree.
Can I cross the border to Mexico from this area?
Yes, Calexico/Mexicali is a major border crossing about 45 miles southwest of Glamis. You can walk across for a day trip to Mexicali for authentic Mexican food, shopping, and culture. Bring your passport if you plan to go beyond the immediate border zone. Check current border wait times and requirements before going.
Do I need special insurance to explore these areas?
While exploring paved roads and towns, your regular auto insurance typically covers you. However, if you're trailering off-road vehicles or taking them on roads between attractions, specialized off-road vehicle insurance is recommended. It protects against theft, damage, and liability specific to recreational vehicles. Get a quote here.
What attractions are family-friendly?
Salvation Mountain, Joshua Tree National Park, Imperial Valley Desert Museum, and the Holtville Carrot Festival are all family-friendly. The Salton Sea and Slab City are also safe for families but have more unusual, quirky atmospheres that some parents might want to evaluate first. All outdoor attractions require normal desert safety precautions (water, sun protection, supervision).
The Complete Glamis Experience Awaits
Glamis offers far more than just exceptional sand dunes and thrilling off-road riding. By venturing beyond the dunes to explore the Salton Sea's bizarre beauty, Salvation Mountain's colorful devotion, Slab City's alternative lifestyle, Joshua Tree's desert majesty, and Imperial Valley's agricultural heritage, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable corner of California.
These attractions complement the adrenaline-pumping dune experience with moments of reflection, cultural education, natural wonder, and artistic inspiration. The contrast makes both the riding and the sightseeing more memorable. Many first-time visitors come for the dunes but return year after year because they've fallen in love with the entire region.
Whether you're planning a quick 3-day weekend focused primarily on riding, or a week-long adventure that balances dune time with exploration, the Glamis region rewards those who look beyond the sand. The untold adventures are waiting—all you need to do is venture a little farther down the desert roads.
Ready to Explore Beyond the Dunes?
You've discovered the full potential of a Glamis adventure. Now make sure you're protected for every mile—whether you're conquering dunes, visiting Salvation Mountain, or road-tripping to Joshua Tree.
Related Articles:
- Glamis Packing Guide: Complete Checklist for Camping & Off-Roading
- Complete Guide to Dune Buggy Insurance (2025)
- Best Times to Visit Glamis: Seasonal Guide (Coming Soon)