Zzyzx
(which is pronounced zy-zicks with emphasis on
the "zy"), California has a colorful history of
its own and once was a resort which featured
mineral springs and mud baths, and was renowned
as a health resort. Some of these facilities
are partially preserved and make for wonderful
photographic opportunities with the background
of Soda Dry Lake. Today, the California State
University system has established a consortium
which administers the Desert Studies Center,
facilitates research in a variety of
disciplines, and aids the preservation of the
endangered Mohave tui chub.
Baker, California is located 11 miles to the
north east from the Desert Studies Center and
has a variety of motels, restaurants, gas
stations, and other facilities, some of which
are quite unique. “Home of the World's Tallest
Thermometer” is Baker's claim to fame and the
height of the thermometer at 134 feet or 41
meters was selected when the community recorded
the highest temperature ever recorded in the
United States (in Death Valley) at 134 degrees
Fahrenheit in 1913. However, it is also a
gateway to Death Valley and other scenic areas
of the the Mohave Desert. Many travelers come
to know Baker as they fill their gas tanks
during their excursions to and from Las Vegas,
Nevada to Los Angeles, California. Baker,
California is approximately 177 miles or 285
kilometers north east of Los Angeles,
California. Las Vegas, Nevada is located about
88 miles or 142 kilometers to the north east of
Baker, California.
The Desert Studies Center has a meeting room,
an area for social gatherings and poster
sessions, audio visual capabilities with
wireless internet, dormitory facilities
(advanced registration required and individuals
bring their own bedding or sleeping bag), shower
facilities, a chef who will prepare the hot
breakfasts, dinners and packaged lunches, a
store which features items related to Zzyzx,
wonderful star gazing opportunities (clear skies
permitting), and a wonderful view of Soda Dry
Lake, the California Fan Palms and the Chub
Pond. All of the field trips will leave from
the Desert Studies Center.