Joshua Tree National Park
Explore otherworldly landscapes of iconic Joshua trees, surreal rock formations, and vast desert vistas. A haven for hikers, climbers, and stargazers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers and mild temps
Joshua Tree National Park
Best Time
Wildflowers and mild temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore otherworldly landscapes of iconic Joshua trees, surreal rock formations, and vast desert vistas. A haven for hikers, climbers, and stargazers.
"One of our best National Parks by far! Easy access to everything by car."
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert survival. Carry more than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
Temperatures exceed 100°F. Hiking is dangerous; stick to early mornings or late afternoons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Joshua Trees
Throughout the park
Iconic, whimsical trees dotting the landscape. A truly unique desert flora found nowhere else.
Skull Rock
Park Boulevard
A famous rock formation resembling a human skull, perfect for photos and a short scramble.
Cholla Cactus Garden
Southern end of the park
A surreal landscape of dense cholla cactus, especially stunning at sunrise.
Hidden Oasis
Various locations
Discover surprising water sources and lush vegetation amidst the arid desert.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Essential Park Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert survival. Carry more than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
Temperatures exceed 100°F. Hiking is dangerous; stick to early mornings or late afternoons.
✨ Stargazing Paradise
An International Dark Sky Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the incredible night sky. +1
🚗 Drive Through the Park
The best way to see sights. Many viewpoints are accessible directly from the road.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Crucial for desert survival. Carry more than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
Temperatures exceed 100°F. Hiking is dangerous; stick to early mornings or late afternoons.
✨ Stargazing Paradise
An International Dark Sky Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the incredible night sky. +1
🚗 Drive Through the Park
The best way to see sights. Many viewpoints are accessible directly from the road.
🥾 Easy to Moderate Hikes
Trails like Hidden Valley and Barker Dam offer great scenery without extreme difficulty.
📸 Capture the Sunrise/Sunset
Cholla Cactus Garden and Keys View offer spectacular light for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Joshua Tree's unique desert landscape, otherworldly rock formations, and iconic trees. The park's accessibility by car and the stunning stargazing opportunities are frequently praised. However, many caution about the extreme heat during summer months and the lack of shade and food services within the park, emphasizing the need for ample water and preparation.
"We traveled to Palm Springs for a long weekend. While in Palm Springs, we decided to take a drive to Joshua tree. It’s nice because if you have a national park pass, you can get in for free. It makes for a scenic drive with lots of places to stop off for photos. I hiked it in the winter months, but wouldn’t recommend hiking it in the summer. It’s very hot not a lot shade or places to get out of the heat."
Kara Mazur
"One of our best National Parks by far! Easy access to everything by car. An amazing assortment of cacti, beautiful spring blooms and some of the best hikes anywhere.
If you go March - April you can see the cactus blooms, and you can see from the pictures how beautiful it is.
Give yourself at least 2 days. Stays in the Palm Springs area are less than an hour away and offer a good selection of hotels. There are also the towns of Joshua Tree and Twenty Nine Palms (stop by the excellent brewery there).
Pack plenty of water and snacks. It gets hot very hot. And there are no places to grab food until you are out of the park.
Hiking is pretty easy with some of the best sights just a short hike off the road.
Avoid the drive out of LA if you are planning to fly in or give yourself up to 4 hours for what should be a 2 hour drive."
Robert Fiorini
"Very unique place .3 hours drive from San Diego .You may cover it in one day but if you stay outside the park it is worth to explore another part in the morning.Joshua trees are found only here in the world.Sunset point is worth watching. You have to go there by car no other option available ."
RAI DE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Joshua Tree National Park is accessible by car. The closest major airports are Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). From LAX, expect a 2.5 to 4-hour drive depending on traffic.
A personal vehicle is essential for exploring the park. Roads are well-maintained, and most major attractions are accessible by car.
No, there are no public transportation options or shuttles within Joshua Tree National Park. You must have your own vehicle.
Yes, RVs and trailers are allowed, but be mindful of narrow roads and parking limitations in certain areas. Some unpaved roads may not be suitable for larger vehicles.
Yes, it's possible, but it's a long day. From LA, it's about a 2.5-hour drive each way, and from San Diego, it's around 3 hours. To truly experience the park, an overnight stay is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you have an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass, entry is free.
Currently, timed entry reservations are not required for Joshua Tree National Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for any last-minute changes.
Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visitor centers have specific operating hours.
Yes, your America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is accepted for entry into Joshua Tree National Park.
You can purchase entrance passes at the park's entrance stations or online in advance through recreation.gov.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular easy hikes include the Hidden Valley Nature Trail (1 mile loop), Barker Dam Nature Trail (1.1 mile loop), and the Cholla Cactus Garden (0.25 mile loop boardwalk).
Keys View offers panoramic desert vistas, Skull Rock is an iconic formation, and Cap Rock is great for photos and short walks.
Yes, Joshua Tree is world-renowned for its rock climbing and bouldering opportunities, with thousands of established routes.
Yes, camping is available at several campgrounds within the park. Most require reservations, especially during peak season.
Dress in layers. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen due to the intense sun.
📸 📸 Photography
Cholla Cactus Garden is magical at sunrise, while Keys View provides stunning sunset panoramas. Skull Rock and Jumbo Rocks are also great for golden hour.
Absolutely! As an International Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree offers incredibly dark skies perfect for capturing the Milky Way and stars. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A tripod is essential for astrophotography and low-light conditions. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
While not officially park-sanctioned, many local photographers offer private tours or workshops. Check local listings in Joshua Tree town.
Beyond the iconic trees, look for unique rock formations, desert wildflowers (in spring), and the stark beauty of the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing binoculars for spotting birds and other desert creatures. Picnics are a great way to refuel, with many scenic spots available. Keys View offers an accessible viewpoint for everyone to enjoy the vast desert panorama. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the desert heat, especially during warmer months.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
You can cover a significant portion of the park in a few hours, making it ideal for a day trip from nearby cities like Palm Springs or even Los Angeles. For day-trippers, prioritize your must-sees. A sunrise visit to the Cholla Cactus Garden and a sunset at Keys View can create a memorable experience within a single day. Ensure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of water, as services within the park are limited.
🌌 Stargazers & Astrophotographers
Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots and a star chart app to identify constellations. Popular spots like Cap Rock and Jumbo Rocks are excellent for setting up your camera. Remember to use red-light flashlights to preserve your night vision and that of others.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Joshua Tree's Unique Ecosystems
Understanding these differences can enhance your visit. For instance, the iconic Joshua trees are primarily found in the northern and western parts of the park, while the Cholla Cactus Garden, a unique spectacle, is located in the southern Colorado Desert region. Pay attention to the subtle shifts in vegetation as you drive through the park; it's a testament to the resilience of life in arid environments.
When exploring, remember to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert environment. The desert soil crust is vital for preventing erosion and supporting plant life. By respecting these delicate ecosystems, you help preserve Joshua Tree's beauty for future generations.
The Magic of Stargazing in Joshua Tree
The lack of light pollution allows for breathtaking views of the Milky Way, constellations, and even meteor showers. Popular spots for stargazing include Cap Rock, Jumbo Rocks, and areas away from the main roads. Many visitors recommend camping overnight in the park to fully immerse themselves in the celestial spectacle.
To make the most of your stargazing experience, visit during a new moon phase for the darkest skies. Bring a red-light headlamp to preserve your night vision, and consider downloading a stargazing app to identify celestial objects. The silence of the desert night, combined with the vastness of the cosmos, creates an unforgettable experience.
Hiking Trails for Every Level
For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, trails like the Ryan Mountain Trail (3 miles roundtrip) offer rewarding panoramic views of the park from its summit. The Wall Street Mill Trail (5 miles roundtrip) leads to an abandoned gold mine, providing a glimpse into the area's mining history. Remember to always carry ample water, wear appropriate footwear, and check trail conditions before you go.
Adventurous hikers might explore longer routes or off-trail areas, but this requires advanced navigation skills and a thorough understanding of desert safety. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a map and compass. The park's beauty is best appreciated when explored responsibly and preparedly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit