Joshua Tree National Park
If you have time, take the scenic route back and visit Joshua Tree National Park. The park, with nearly 800,000 acres of mystical beauty, is without a doubt one of the world's most incredible natural desert treasures. Sweeping, grand in scale, and populated by granite monoliths and voluptuous rock and boulder formations, the park offers wonder to eco-travelers, outdoor adventurists, and naturalists.
Two large ecosystems merge to form this peaceful land, conducive to meditation and exploration, carved by climate extremes ranging from wind to rain to an ever-present, relentless sun. Many different types of plant life, such as creosote and ocotillo, can be found throughout the park, but none are as distinctive or common as the park's namesake, the Joshua tree, which stands majestically across the vast topography.
Ways to enjoy Joshua Tree National Park are nearly as vast as the park itself. Arrive for a few hours to hike on countless trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels, or plan an adrenaline-fueled rock climb among rare boulder outcroppings. Multiple campsites provide you with more time in one of nature’s most alluring desert escapes.
Special programs and ranger-led tours educate visitors about the park's geography, wildlife, and plant life, as well as its colorful history dating back to the early Pinto Man and gold seekers of the 1800s. Joshua Tree, which was recently designated an International Dark Sky Park, always gives night visitors a tour of the dazzling star display above.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Website: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/
- Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Private Vehicle Pass $30; Motorcycle Pass $25; Individual Pass $15
- Address: 6554 Park Blvd. Joshua Tree, CA 92252.
