Joshua Tree National Park is a captivating desert destination where two distinct ecosystems- the Mojave and Colorado Deserts- merge. Known for its namesake Joshua trees, incredible rock formations, and clear starry skies, this park offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Whether you’re hiking among the iconic boulders, stargazing, or enjoying quirky nearby attractions, Joshua Tree is a must-visit for nature and desert lovers alike.

About Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park spans nearly 800,000 acres and is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and stargazers. The unique combination of rugged rock formations and stark desert landscaped creates an otherworldly vibe that has made it a favorite among travelers. The park’s biodiversity is equally impressive, with everything from cactus gardens to unique animals like bighorn sheep.

When to Visit:

• Best Seasons:
  • Spring (March-May): Warm days, cool nights, and wildflowers in bloom
  • Fall (October-November): Comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking
•  Winter: Cool during the day and cold at night, but a quieter time to visit
• Summer: Very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees F, so plan carefully if visiting during this season
• Time of Day:
  • Sunrise and Sunset: The desert comes alive with color, making these the best times for photography and exploration
  • Nighttime: Known for its dark skies, Joshua Tree is a stargazing paradise

How to Get There:

Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern California, about a 2-3 hour drive from Los Angeles and San Diego.

• Nearest Airport:
  • Palm Springs International Airport (1-hour drive)
• Entrances:
  • West Entrance (Joshua Tree): The most popular entry point, closest to the town of Joshua Tree
  • North Entrance (Twentynine Palms): A quieter option with easy access to major trails
  • South Entrance (Cottonwood Visitor Center): Closest to I-10, offering a less crowded way into the park

Park Fees and Passes:

• Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for 7 days
• America the Beautiful Pass: $80 for unlimited access to all national parks for a year

Where to Stay

• In the Park:
  • Jumbo Rocks Campground: Iconic boulder-strewn campsite perfect for sunset views and stargazing
  • Cottonwood Campground: Quieter and more remote, with proximity to the Colorado Desert section of the park
• Nearby Towns:
  • Joshua Tree: Charming and quirky, offering motels, vacation rentals, and attractions like the Joshua Tree Saloon
  • Twentynine Palms: Great for access to the North Entrance with a range of accommodations

Two-Day Itinerary:

Day 1:

1. Arrive at Joshua Tree National Park (Early Afternoon)

• Enter through the West Entrance or North Entrance, depending on your route, and make your way into the heart of the park. Pick up a map at the visitor center and chat with rangers for the latest trail and road conditions.

2. Stop at Barker Dam

• Start your adventure with the Barker Dam Trail, an easy 1.3-mile loop that combines fascinating history with beautiful desert scenery. The trail passes an old water reservoir built by cattle ranchers and is a great spot for wildlife viewing, especially birds.

3. Hike Ryan Mountain

• For a more challenging adventure, tackle the Ryan Mountain Trail, a 3-mile roundtrip hike that rewards you with a panoramic view of Joshua Tree’s dramatic landscape. The climb is steep, but the vistas are well worth the effort

4. Check Out Arch Rock

• Before heading to your campsite, stop by Arch Rock Nature Trail, a short and family-friendly 0.5-mile loop that leads to a cool natural rock arch. The area is perfect for photography and scrambling around boulders

5. Set Up Camp at Jumbo Rocks

• Climb up the nearby boulders to watch the sunset paint the desert landscape in golden hues. Bonus points if you cook dinner in time for the sunset and are able to sit atop the boulders while enjoying your meal.

6. Evening Stargazing

• If there’s one thing you absolutely should not miss out on at this park, it’s stargazing. As night falls, the stars take center stage. Joshua Tree’s dark skies make it one of the best stargazing spots in California. Lie back and take in the view of the Milky Way, constellations, and maybe even a shooting star or two.

Day 2:

1. Morning at Skull Rock

• Start your day at this popular rock formation, conveniently located near Jumbo Rocks Campground. The shape of the rock is perfect for photos and easy exploration.

2. Hike the Hidden Valley Trail

• This 1-mile loop offers stunning scenery and a glimpse into the park’s unique ecosystem. It’s a great introduction to Joshua Tree’s iconic rock formations and desert flora.

3. Explore Hall of Horrors

• A quick stop for adventurous spirits! This area features slot canyons and towering boulders, making it a fun spot to explore and climb.

4. Visit Keys View

• Drive up to this incredible viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and even Mexico on clear days. It’s one of the best vantage points in the park.

5. Lunch in Town and Local Charm

• Take a break and visit the nearby town of Joshua Tree. Enjoy the quirky, artsy vibe and check out attractions like the World Famous Crochet Museum or grab a bite at a local cafe.

6. Cholla Cactus Garden

• End your day with a peaceful stroll through the Cholla Cactus Garden. The golden hour here is magical, with the cacti glowing in the soft desert light.

7. Set up camp at either Cottonwood Campground or Jumbo Rocks Campground

• Either of these are great spots, but I would choose based on where you are heading to the next day. I chose to stay at Cottonwood Campground because it made my drive easier the next day.