Nestled on the eastern edge of Nevada near the Utah border lies a land of dry desert punctuated by mountains and unusual life. The parks bristlecone pines are some of the oldest living organisms on earth. Perfectly adapted to their rugged and arid environment, the trees can live for thousands of years. Imagine seeing trees that were alive before the time of the Roman Empire. You can also drive on the highest road in Nevada. The park is one of the least-visited in the park system, so if you go to hike or camp you should have no problem finding solitude. Although if you visit the Lehman Caves, you’ll want to plan in advance during the high season.

Established at a National Park in 1986, the park is remote and is a bit of a drive from any large population centers. Because of this, however, it is also great for stargazing on a cloudless night. You won’t have the light pollution you might encounter elsewhere. And unlike some other deserts, the temperatures do not get too extreme in the summer, although they may be uncomfortably cold in the winter months.