At just over 28,000 years old, the San Andreas Fault zone is still growing at a rate of 2.5 inches (64 millimeters) per year, constantly reshaping California. The fault has three distinct segments. You can visit the northern part at Pinnacles National Park, the central part at the San Andreas Fault Observatory in Parkfield, and the southern part from the San Bernardino Mountains to the San Gabriel Mountains.
San Andreas Fault Jeep tours head out to the Palm Desert to explore the fault, as well as the oasis and hot springs it created.
Desert temperatures can fluctuate drastically, so dress in layers if you're heading to Palm Desert on a tour.
Wear sneakers or hiking boots to climb around the fault area.
Be sure to apply sunblock, wear a hat, and bring water.
The 1906 earthquake that leveled San Francisco erased almost all traces of a crack in the earth along the fault line. However, geological rock formations remain.
The southern part of the fault begins near the San Bernardino Mountains, just outside of Los Angeles, and runs east to the San Gabriel Mountains, with Palm Springs being the best place to explore the fault. Palm Springs is about 1.75 hours southeast of LA or a 2.5-hour drive from San Diego. Tours typically begin at a location in Palm Desert, not Palm Springs.
If you're planning to head out to Palm Desert to tour the fault area, book your trip between January and April, when the weather is the most pleasant. During the summer, temperatures regularly rise above 100 degrees. If you want to explore the northern section at Pinnacles National Park near Big Sur, aim for some time between September and November for optimum weather conditions.
Joshua Tree National Park is among the better-known attractions near San Bernardino and Palm Springs. The protected area boasts plenty of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, rock climbing, and birding, and many tour companies offer rides in 4WD vehicles, to explore the park and its wildlife. The park's name comes from the Joshua trees that are native to the Mojave Desert.