A Journey Through Resilience and Beauty

9:00 - 12:00

Begin your adventure at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, a unique landscape offering stunning views and a chance to learn about the area's intriguing history. Explore the visitor center, enjoy bird watching, or take a leisurely hike around the area to appreciate its stark beauty.

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat as the area can get quite hot. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 17:00

Continue your day with a visit to the Bombay Beach Ruins. Once a thriving resort town, now an artistic ghost town with fascinating installations and graffiti that tell a story of resilience and transformation. Explore the area and discover how artists have turned abandoned structures into works of art.

Tips: Be respectful of the art and the community. It's a great place for photography, but ensure to leave no trace behind. The terrain can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.

9:00 - 12:00

Start your day with a visit to the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This area provides a critical habitat for over 400 bird species throughout the year. Enjoy a peaceful morning observing diverse wildlife and exploring the walking trails.

Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, wear comfortable walking shoes, and carry water. Early mornings are the best time for wildlife observation. Remember to respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:00

After lunch, explore the intriguing Salton Sea Mud Volcanoes. These natural geothermal phenomena offer a unique sightseeing experience. Listen to the bubbling sounds and watch as mud spouts from the earth. It's a rare opportunity to witness geothermal activity up close.

Tips: Wear old shoes as the area can be muddy. Stay on marked paths for safety and to protect the natural habitat. The area can be quite hot, so bring sun protection and water.

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your day with a visit to Salvation Mountain, a visionary environment covering a hill in the Colorado Desert. Admire this large-scale art installation created by local resident Leonard Knight, which is made from adobe, straw, and thousands of gallons of paint. The artwork is a tribute to God and his gift to the world, featuring colorful murals and painted messages.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring water, as it can get quite hot. Don't forget your camera to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of this unique art piece. Respect the site and follow any posted guidelines to help preserve this incredible work of art.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Continue your exploration with a visit to East Jesus, an experimental, sustainable and habitable art installation located in the Slab City community. This off-the-grid enclave is known for its eclectic art pieces made from recycled materials and its creative expression of freedom. Discover the fascinating sculptures, installations, and murals that make up this unique artistic community.

Tips: Be open-minded and respectful of the residents and their art. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Bring water and sun protection. Photography is encouraged, but ask for permission before taking photos of residents or their personal spaces.

15:30 - 17:00

End your day with a quirky visit to the International Banana Museum, which boasts over 20,000 banana-related items ranging from salt shakers to record players. This fun and unusual museum is sure to bring a smile to your face with its dedication to all things banana.

Tips: Don't miss trying one of their famous banana milkshakes or banana-flavored ice cream. It's a perfect way to cool down after a day of exploration. The museum is small, so it won't take long to see everything, but it's definitely worth the visit for a unique experience.

9:00 - 11:00

Return to the Salton Sea State Recreation Area for a morning of relaxation by the water. Take this opportunity to enjoy the serene environment, perhaps with a book in hand or simply soaking in the tranquil views of the sea and surrounding landscape.

Tips: Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water. Early mornings are especially peaceful, offering cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Spend your afternoon at the Salton Sea Visitor Center, where you can dive deeper into the history, wildlife, and ecological significance of the area. It's a great place to gain insight into the Salton Sea's past, present, and future.

Tips: Check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs. The visitor center also offers informative brochures and maps that can enhance your understanding and exploration of the area.

15:30 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a visit to Desert Shores, a community on the western shore of the Salton Sea. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, capturing the beauty of the sea against the backdrop of the desert landscape.

Tips: The area is known for its spectacular sunsets. Plan your visit around dusk to witness a breathtaking view as the sun sets over the Salton Sea.

9:00 - 11:00

Start your day with an adventure to Salton City, an area known for its stark landscapes and unique history. Explore the remnants of what was once a booming resort town, now offering a surreal and photogenic backdrop for explorers.

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The area can be quite desolate, so make sure your camera is charged for capturing the haunting beauty of this place.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Dive into the history of the Salton Sea at the Salton Sea History Museum. Learn about the rise and fall of this fascinating area through exhibits that showcase its past as a popular resort destination, its ecological challenges, and the community's efforts to preserve its legacy.

Tips: The museum offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into the Salton Sea's history. Check the schedule in advance to join one.

15:30 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a visit to Obsidian Butte, a unique geological feature on the shores of the Salton Sea. This area is known for its rich deposits of obsidian. Enjoy a scenic hike and learn about the volcanic activity that formed this landscape.

Tips: Collecting obsidian is not allowed, but photography is encouraged. Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring water and sun protection.

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your day with a serene visit to Niland Marina County Park. This tranquil spot offers a chance for quiet reflection by the water, bird watching, and leisurely walks along the marina. It's a perfect place to appreciate the natural beauty of the Salton Sea area.

Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, and a book or journal for some peaceful reading or writing by the water. Early morning is particularly peaceful, offering cooler temperatures and a calm atmosphere.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Continue your day of leisure with a visit to West Shores Marina & RV Park. Enjoy the scenic views of the Salton Sea, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the area.

Tips: Consider renting a kayak to explore the waters at your own pace. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, water, and a hat for protection against the sun.

15:30 - 17:30

End your day at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area - North Shore. This part of the park offers beautiful sunset views over the Salton Sea, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts or anyone looking to enjoy a tranquil end to their day.

Tips: Arrive early to find the best spot for sunset photography. The changing colors of the sky reflected on the water create a stunning natural spectacle.