The latest volume in the unique Sierra Club Guides to the Natural Areas of the United States covers some of America's most spectacular national parks, among them the Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns, the Petrified Forest, Pyramid Lake, and Toiyabe National Forest. But here, too, are dozens of lesser known public-domain lands, wildlife refuges, and other wilderness areas -- no less magnificent, but less crowded. Sites are listed alphabetically within fifteen geographic zones, each entry offering a wealth of detail, including:
-- Location: directions from the closest town or highway, and a key to adjacent wilderness areas
-- Physical descriptions: topography and geography, weather patterns, acreage, outstanding natural features, and points of special interest
-- Wildlife: birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians
-- Flora: major plant species and forest types
-- Recreation: opportunities for nature walks, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, skiing, backpacking, hunting, fishing, swimming, and scenic drives
-- Resources: park headquarters and ranger districts, visitor centers, publications, and maps
-- Easy reference: symbols tell at a glance the recreational opportunities at each site
-- Location: directions from the closest town or highway, and a key to adjacent wilderness areas
-- Physical descriptions: topography and geography, weather patterns, acreage, outstanding natural features, and points of special interest
-- Wildlife: birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians
-- Flora: major plant species and forest types
-- Recreation: opportunities for nature walks, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, skiing, backpacking, hunting, fishing, swimming, and scenic drives
-- Resources: park headquarters and ranger districts, visitor centers, publications, and maps
-- Easy reference: symbols tell at a glance the recreational opportunities at each site
One-third of New Mexico, nearly one-half of Arizona, and 70% of Nevada is public land, including three major desert systems, nine million acres of national forest, and over 200 mountain ranges. Based on extensive research and original on-site surveys, this excellent guide invites both travelers and residents to enjoy the fullest the matchless resources in these three states.
