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EXPLORE

Explore Ridgecrest, CA

Enjoy the largest city in the beautiful Indian Wells Valley. Explore the vast stretches of desert that surround our hotel. Don't miss a visit to the Death Valley or the spectacular Trona Pinnacles.
If you love history, visit the Maturango Museum or tour the fascinating ancient petroglyphs in the canyons of the Coso Range. Whether you are traveling alone or with family, you will have something exciting to do here at Ridgecrest.

Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake

The Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake supports research, testing, and evaluation of the US Navy programs.  
VISIT WEBSITE of Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake

Trona Pinnacles

Visit the Trona Pinnacles and marvel at the unique geological features located in the California Desert. The pinnacles feature more than 500 tufa spires rising from the Searless Dry Lake basin bed. Learn about the geology and history of the place and enjoy camping in the stunning landscape.

Attraction Details

 
  • Attraction Details

    Address

    401-499 Española Way,
    California, USA, CA, 93562
    Distance from Hotel: 24.6 mi

Gateway to Death Valley

Drive through the scenic Gateway to Death Valley. This historic gateway has seen more than 100 immigrants from the Middle East come to explore the goldfields of Central California.

Tip - Visit Death Valley National Park on National Public Lands Day or Veterans Day for free admission.

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Maturango Museum

Spend a quiet afternoon at the Maturango Museum. Learn about the natural and cultural history of the Northern Mojave Desert. Tour the galleries and check out the various exhibits and participate in cultural programs.

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Big and Little Petroglyph Canyon

Visit the Big and Little Petroglyph Canyons, which house the major Paleo-Indian and Native American Petroglyphs by the Coso People who lived in the Mojave Desert. The canyons contain 20,000 documented images that highlight the history of the area.

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Petroglyph Park

Visit Petroglyph Park for a unique experience when you visit Ridgecrest. Admire the prehistoric rock carvings at the south end of Nanaimo. Learn about life more than 1,000 years ago and enjoy stunning views of the Petroglyphs.

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Kern River/ Sequoia National Park

Visit the Kern River/ Sequoia National Park with family and friends. Be humbled by the huge mountains, rugged foothills, vast caverns, giant canyons, and gigantic Sequoia trees. Enjoy hiking, skiing and snowshoeing during winters, family picnics, and wildlife watching.

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Red Rock Canyon State Park

Admire scenic desert cliffs, buttes, and stunning rock formations at the Red Rock Canyon State Park. Go camping, horseback riding, hiking, and picnics at this beautiful destination.

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What is the Naval Air Weapons Station in China Lake responsible for?

The Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) in China Lake maintains the land for the station. It provides facilities and other assets to support the Navy's research, development, testing, and acquisition of the latest weapon systems.

Is camping allowed at Trona Pinnacles?

The Trona Pinnacles are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM allows dispersed camping at the pinnacles for 14 days. The Trona Pinnacles don't have potable water, so campers must bring enough water for their entire camping duration. Campers must also pack out all the trash as there is no trash service.

Are there any day-use areas in Red Rock State Park?

The Red Rock State Park has many day-use areas. They are available for public use on a first-come, first-serve basis when not reserved. You can reserve these areas up to six months in advance. Wedding reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance. You must pay a non-refundable $25 fee at the time of reservation. You may email the park manager to reserve the day-use area.

What should I bring to the Maturango Museum Petroglyphs tour?

The Maturango Museum petroglyphs tour is one of the most popular tours at the museum. Ensure you bring the following if you are taking this guided tour:
  • Lots of water
  • Snacks and lunch
  • A fully charged camera
  • A comfortable backpack
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Walking stick (optional)