From Zelda - Wiki on Neoseeker

Background

Before Link can tackle the Spirit Temple he'll have to cross the Desert Colossus. The desert consists of two parts: "The River of Sand", which Link can use his Long Shot to cross by latching onto one of the wooden crates located on the opposite side, and the "Haunted Wastelands", of which passage requires the help of a friendly spirit guide. Using the Lens of Truth at the dried up well in the middle of the desert will reveal a guide that will help Link cross to the Spirit Temple.