Hi Glen, Same here. Problem is the desert is very chilly but I should get a great feel for the emptiness under the moonlight, hopefully some special pictures. We've been getting some -10 and -20 mornings so its going to be nesting sleeping bags as my old 58 bag is more than a bit weary.. the down went into it over 20 years ago!
My biggest problem is there arent enough trees for my Magic Kelly hammock. Guess my next trip will be further North. Local people here find it hard to believe that I want to backpack as I do at home in Scotland. Most of my neighbours take truck sized SUVs with at least 5 plastic boxes full of Gucci gear. Mebbe I should save up..
Best of luck with the trip. Stay warm.
George