Joshua Tree National Park is located at the point where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet in the southeastern part of California. Spanning over approximately 790,636 acres, this national park presents itself with various features of topography, Appalachian structure, sharp desert, and the featured tree, the Joshua tree.
Despite the Splendid boulders, mountains, and deserts, it is the night skies of the park that attract most of the attention. This is so because the place lacks some of the light sources that cause pollution. However, other physical activities can be done in this park including hiking, rock climbing, and photography, among others.
When you are there, do not miss these 20 things to do in Joshua Tree.
1. Explore the Wonderland of Rocks
The name Wonderland of Rocks is given to the fascinating and complex formations of rock in this park. This place is popular among rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers who are in search of rare geological features.
This unique formation of rocks is the result of erosion and weathering that occurred for millions of years. These effects of nature formed a maze of canyons, corridors, and elevated rock formations.
When exploring these things to do at Joshua Tree, one has to be prepared for difficult terrains. Wear sturdy footwear, carry enough water, and have a proper map or GPS device.
2. Rock Climbing At Echo Cove
Another popular things to do in Joshua Tree State Park is rock climbing. Echo Cove, among many others, is a popular destination for climbing due to its amazing rock formations. The area also includes an easy route that is accessible to climbers of all skill levels.
The cove has more than 8,000 known routes and more than 380 amazing formations. You can carry your supplies or rent them from a local shop called Nomad Ventures.
However, one has to be careful about the crowd. Since Echo Cove is a popular rock climbing platform suitable for first-timers and advanced climbers, the climb can be quite crowded.
3. Hike the Hidden Valley
Among the various things to do in Joshua Tree National Park, hiking the rugged terrain of this park is the most popular one. Hidden Valley is one such spot with beautiful rock formations and a distinct ecosystem, ideal for hiking.
The name Hidden Valley is given because the place was once used by cattle rustlers to hide their stolen cattle. The valley features a 1-mile loop trail, which is relatively easy to hike and hikers can even witness the desert flora and fauna, along with the impressive boulder topography.
Along with the Hidden Valley, there are many other hiking trails in the park. Some of them are Ryan Mountains, Barker Dam, Fortynine Palms Oasis, and Lost Horse Mine.
4. Attend A Joshua Tree Music Festival
This music festival is held twice a year, in May and October. The festival usually takes place near the entrance of Joshua Tree National Park.
The music was started in 2003 by Barnett English, and since then it has become a gathering place for music, art installations, yoga, and wellness practices.
The main purpose of this festival is to develop a sense of connectivity and a society often described as a "labor of love" by the founder. The environment is suitable for family and friends. Moreover, the festival is driven towards resource-generating events to support local and global causes.
5. Taking A Joshua Tree Jeep Adventure
The Joshua Tree Jeep ride takes you to the rough and remote area of this park with the use of off-roads and guided tours. These jeep rides take you to places that cannot be reached by other normal vehicles.
The main purpose of these adventures is to provide a unique look at the park, including the left-out zones, hidden valleys, desert flora, and rock formations. You also get to see many historical sites along the way.
Some of them are old mining areas and homesteads. Since the place is secluded and rough, try wearing comfortable clothes and carrying plenty of water. You can book the tickets in advance.
6. Photograph Arch Rock
Visiting the Arch Rock is a lovable things to do at Joshua Tree National Park, among photo enthusiasts. Arch rock is a naturally made rock formation caused by wind and water erosion for more than millions of years.
People often visit this place to take beautiful pictures. The nearby area of this place is rich in historical significance, showcasing granite formations and different desert flora.
To visit this place, you have to take a short hike from the White Tank Campground. The trails are easy, and it is best to start the journey early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid heat and take perfect pictures with the correct lighting.
Carry a trash bag along as the place follows strict Leave No Trace principles to maintain its natural beauty.
7. Rock Scrambling At Hall of Horrors
Another popular place for rock climbing and scrambling at Joshua Tree National Park is the Hall of Horrors. Visitors seeking a thrilling and adventurous journey can visit this dramatic rock formation place.
The passage to these rocks is narrow, offering a more adventurous experience to the climbers. The name "Hall of Horror" is more related to the thrilling nature of the terrain than the real horror.
Always wear comfortable and sturdy shoes while visiting such places. You might see many physical activities taking place here, so be prepared for some moderate activities.
8. Walk The Barker Dam Nature Trail
A simple yet relaxing things to do in Joshua National Park is to walk the Barker Dam Nature Trail. The trail is a 1.3-mile long loop with a beautiful view of the area's natural and cultural history.
Historically, the dam was built in 1900 by cattle ranchers to store water for livestock. As you walk the trail, you get to the dam and a small river where many rare aquatic animals live. The trails also show ancient petroglyphs, which belong to the indigenous people.
A walk to these trails is relaxing, as it guarantees an easy walk. Besides walking, people visit this place for hiking.
9. Sunrise At The Cholla Cactus Garden
This garden, located in the national park, is a distinct area that has a dense cluster of the so-called teddy bear cholla cactus. One should not be carried away by this cute name, as the spine of the cacti is fully covered in spines that are detachable and can be painful if touched.
The best time to visit this garden is at sunrise or sunset when the light intensifies the golden color of the cactus. This area is best to see the diverse ecology of the desert.
Although the trails are easy, try to stay on the designated paths to not harm the desert's environment. Always wear sunscreen, and a hat, and carry water to beat the harmful rays of the sun.
10. Take A Look At The Oasis of Mara
The Oasis of Mara is a lush, green area in the dry landscape of the desert. Traditionally, the place was a water source for indigenous people, including the Serrano and Cahuilla tribes. They were dependent on this water source for existence and survival.
Today, the oasis is located on the main road of the park and is easily accessible. The easy accessibility is a contrast to the arid desert environment surrounding the Joshua Tree National Park.
The oasis of Mara offers a short, flat trail that showcases the area's natural history and importance. Seeing the flora and fauna, along with various bird species, is a popular things to do in Joshua Tree Park.
11. Stop By The Joshua Tree Art Gallery
The Joshua Tree Art Gallery (JTAG) is a bright and colorful place that features diverse local arts. It was established in 2009, and since then, the gallery has transformed tremendously.
Here, you can find traditional and contemporary arts, along with exhibitions that include painting, sculpture, modern media, and many more. With a vision to allow the artist to explore many platforms, the gallery often bases its shows on certain themes.
Besides exhibits and arts, one can expect events such as workshops, artist talks, and community gatherings. The museum runs on a volunteer basis, so always check the opening times before visiting the place.
12. Birdwatching At Cottonwood Spring
Among the various places and tourist attractions located in Joshua Tree National Park, this is the best birding spot. Due to the rich natural beauty, many birds are attracted to this place.
It is a grassy oasis that was once used by Native Americans, miners, and early settlers as a vital water source. Visitors can explore the scheduled mining sites and equipment in the mining area.
Today, this is a famous place for bird species, including migratory and resident birds. Carry binoculars, a field guide, and plenty of water while visiting this place.
13. Take the Geology Tour Road
It is a stunning 18-mile dirt road, originally designed to highlight the park's geological features. This is a self-guided tour, so you can enjoy the diverse geological history of the park, including ancient marine deposits, rock formations, and fault lines.
Some of the popular sites of this place are Pleasant Valley and Malapi Hill. Although it is a self-tour, one has to be mindful of some factors. You will need a high-clearance vehicle due to the rough terrain.
Visit this place mostly in the cooler months to avoid the extreme heat of summer.
14. Dedicate An Evening For Stargazing
Stargazing is one of the best things to do Joshua Tree National Park. The park offers some of the clearest night skies due to the minimal light pollution. Moreover, you can observe celestial events from the park.
Keys View is a notable place where you can observe clear skies at night. This place also provides a panoramic view of the sky. Other locations ideal for stargazing include Cottonwood Campground and the Indian Cove Campground.
The desert temperature can be pretty cold at night, so it is advisable to carry warm clothes. The best time to witness stargazing is on moonless nights.
15. Visit Keys View
Keys View is a famous viewpoint in this national park. Enjoying views from this point offers a panoramic picture of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and the Salton Sea. Moreover, on a clear, sunny day, you can even see Mexico.
Located at a height of 5000 feet, the key view offers a rare view of the desert located below. Watching sunrise and sunset are among the favorite Joshua National Park things to do at this place.
The roads to this viewpoint can be steep and winding, so drive carefully.
16. Explore Twentynine Palms
Located near Joshua Tree National Park, Twenty-nine Palms is located in San Bernardino County, California. This place was first discovered by a desert explorer, named Colonel Henry Washington in 1855.
The name Twentynine Palms is derived from the 29 palm trees located at the Oasis of Mara by the Native Americans and previous settlers. The place offers the scenic beauty of the outdoor space in the park and is known for various outdoor activities.
From this place, you can explore rare desert landscapes, enjoy stargazing, and see various historical sites like the Twentynine Palms Historical Society.
17. Participate In Ranger Programs
Ranger programs are a sort of educational and illustrative initiative provided by the national and state parks. The main purpose of these programs is to educate and develop the visitor's understanding of natural and cultural resources.
The programs are coordinated by the park rangers, and they include guided hikes, stargazing events, talks about wildlife, and historical sightseeing. The origin of this program dates back to the 20th century, in coordination with the growth of the environment and to promote conservation ethics.
Check the schedule of the events before you visit the place.
18. Go On Wildlife Watching
Joshua Tree National Park is home to many wildlife species, from birds to bighorn sheep and Mojave desert tortoises. Wildlife watching is an activity that is gaining importance due to its recreational nature and educational purpose.
Originally, wildlife watching was a practice only for scientific research. But today, it has expanded to include tourism and educational purposes. Among the many wildlife species, people come here to see the bighorn sheep and Mojave tortoises.
The bighorn sheep is a large, curved horn sheep adaptable to the harsh desert climate. You can see them on the rugged slopes and rocky terrain of the park. The Mojave tortoise, on the other hand, is found in the desert area of the park. These reptiles dig holes to protect themselves from the extreme heat and predators.
19. Drive Through The Pinto Basin Road
A drive through the Pinto Basin Road is well-known because of its stunning desert landscapes and rare geological features. From the road, you can see various trailheads and overlooks to explore the diverse ecosystem.
Nearby areas along the way that are worth watching include the Ocotillo Patch, Cholla Cactus Garden, and the expansive Pinto Basin itself.
This place is also known for its rich cultural and geological history. It was formed many years ago by natural forces and has taken the form of a fascinating rock formation. This place is also known for its archaeological importance, with studies indicating early human activities.
20. Do Not Miss The Lost Horse Mine
The Lost Horse Mine dates back to the 20th century. It was the result of a mining boom, and it includes a remarkable history of gold mining. Established by the Ryan family in 1894, the mine was in play until 1931.
Being one of the best-preserved gold mines in the park, the trails feature a 4-mile round-trip hike that follows the old road used to transport ore and supplies.
There are some instructions to follow while visiting this place. One has to stay on the marked trails, as the other areas might have hazardous mine shafts and unstable structures. Nevertheless, the trails are easy, but carry water to avoid the desert experience.
