The Yuha Desert is a special relic of the Imperial Valley’s history. While much of the valley has been converted to agricultural use, the Yuha Desert remains undeveloped. Formerly underneath the waters of ancient Lake Cahuilla, the Yuha is a land of mudhills and sand dunes, lizards and nighthawks, torrential floods and dust storms—a truly classic “desert.”
Ancient peoples lived along the shores of Lake Cahuilla, and former village sites can still be found in the Yuha. These peoples left their mark with enormous itaglios (geoglyphs) depicting human and spirit forms that can be seen from the air. The famous San Juan Bautista de Anza Trail also runs through the Yuha. The extreme vulnerability of these historic sites has long been a driver for permanent protection of the Yuha.
Marvel at giant mudhills and rock formations and hike the Yuha Buttes, a series of high rocky hills with outstanding views east across the Imperial Valley.
Campers can stay at the De Anza Overlook, where catching the sunset reflecting off Signal Mountain in the distance can be a beautiful experience.
Four-wheel enthusiasts can tackle sandy washes and mudhills on the Yuha’s designated route network, including highlights like the Yuha Well and the moonscape below the De Anza Overlook.
*Please remember to follow all applicable rules and regulations, and stay on designated routes in order to protect the desert for everyone to enjoy. These Lands are for all of us. Please do your part.
