THIS SEVEN-STORY GIANT BOULDER HAS attracted UFO conferences, Hopi spiritualists, and the engineers of a “rejuvenation machine.”

Geologically speaking, Giant Rock—located in California’s Mojave Desert—is roughly seven stories high and covers almost 6,000 square feet. Some say it is the largest freestanding boulder in the world.

Today, Mane Street in Pioneertown still retains its charm and old west image. Mane Street, as well as Hayden Ranch & Pioneertown Bowl have been designated by the State Department of Parks & Recreation as Historical Resources. Visitors are welcome to come enjoy the sites any day of the week but weekends are when the town really comes to life.

Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself.