My favorite backpacking trips include four elements: solitude, scenic beauty, great geology, and a rich historic background. This is why I thoroughly enjoyed this 2-day trip to the Salton Sea Naval Air Station (SSNAS). This facility was commissioned in 1942 during World War 2 and at its peak, had over 600 sailors and staff. The SSNAS was initially created for seaplane training of PBY Catalinas. However, In 1944-45 a series of classified B-29 practice flights were made from Wendover, Utah to the Salton Sea. The SSNAS was closed in 1946. However, it was maintained and manned at a lower level as an emergency seaplane facility until 1967, when seaplanes left the naval inventory. While most of the facility’s buildings have been demolished, there are still structures to explore including two ammo bunkers, three concrete buildings, and the original seaplane/boat dock. During my hike I found a location rich with concretions, tufa, and clam/gastropod shells that are remnants of Ancient Lake Cahuilla (see my trail map). In addition, the SSNAS is one of the best locations in Southern California to examine “Barchan” sand dunes with their beautiful crescent shapes. While I hiked to all the locations on my trail map (~10 kilometers), you technically can drive to them with a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle. The biggest highlight of the trip was camping on the roof of the Observation Building to watch a stunning sunrise over the Salton Sea. Please also note that you can watch all my adventures (currently 53 videos), on YouTube by subscribing at my account at:   / @joseph_wright  . Love to all, Joe