PALM DESERT. This 1200-acre interpretive center features mountain lions, wolves, javelina, bobcats, golden eagles, and much more. A natural setting nestled at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Take Highway 111 east to Palm Desert; turn right on Portola Avenue.

At this gorgeous labor of love, more than 3000 varieties of desert plants can be viewed and marveled at, including prickly pears, agaves, and cacti. In addition, visitors can check out Indian artifacts and rock, crystal, and wood forms. Established in 1938 by Patricia and Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten, she a biologist, and he a contortionist. The intimate garden also features a nursery that sells plants similar to those featured.#13;#10;