Best Things to Do when Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert landscape located in Southern California, known for its iconic Joshua trees, unique rock formations, and vast, open spaces. The park spans over 790,000 acres, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to adventurers, nature lovers, and artists alike. Whether you're seeking the thrill of rock climbing, the tranquility of stargazing, or the beauty of desert flora and fauna, Joshua Tree has something to offer. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting Joshua Tree National Park.

1. Explore the Joshua Trees and Scenic Drives

One of the main attractions of Joshua Tree National Park is, of course, the Joshua trees themselves. These unique, spiky trees are scattered throughout the park and provide a distinctive, otherworldly feel to the landscape. To see the best of these trees, take a drive along Park Boulevard, which cuts through the heart of the park and offers easy access to many scenic viewpoints and trails. The Keys View overlook is a must-visit, offering panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and, on clear days, the Salton Sea and even Mexico. For a more immersive experience, consider hiking some of the park’s short trails, like the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, which showcases the area's unique rock formations and diverse plant life.

2. Go Hiking

Joshua Tree offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels, from easy walks to more challenging treks. The Barker Dam Trail is a popular, easy hike that takes visitors through desert landscapes to a historic dam and small reservoir, where you might spot bighorn sheep or migratory birds. For those looking for a more strenuous hike, the Ryan Mountain Trail provides a moderately challenging climb that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the park from the 5,456-foot summit. Another notable trail is the 49 Palms Oasis, a 3-mile round-trip hike that leads to a secluded oasis of California fan palms and natural water pools, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat.

3. Rock Climbing and Bouldering

Joshua Tree is world-renowned for its rock climbing and bouldering opportunities, attracting climbers from around the globe. The park’s unique granite formations provide a variety of climbing routes, ranging from easy beginner climbs to challenging technical routes. Popular climbing spots include Echo Cove, Intersection Rock, and Hidden Valley. For those new to climbing, the park offers several bouldering areas where you can practice your skills on lower, easier rock faces. Many local outfitters offer guided climbing tours and instruction, making it accessible for beginners to experience the thrill of climbing in Joshua Tree’s iconic landscape.

4. Stargazing

Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing. The park’s dark skies reveal a stunning array of stars, planets, and constellations, making it a popular spot for amateur astronomers and photographers. Bring a blanket, telescope, or just your eyes, and head to one of the park’s many open areas, such as Keys View, Skull Rock, or the Cholla Cactus Garden. The park frequently hosts ranger-led stargazing programs and events, where visitors can learn about the night sky and view celestial objects through high-powered telescopes.

5. Visit Skull Rock and Other Iconic Rock Formations

Joshua Tree National Park is home to numerous iconic rock formations that are perfect for exploring and photographing. Skull Rock, named for its skull-like appearance, is one of the most famous and easily accessible formations, located right off the main park road. Nearby, the Arch Rock formation offers a natural rock arch that’s a favorite for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Cholla Cactus Garden, with its dense concentration of cholla cacti, provides a surreal landscape that’s especially stunning in the early morning or late afternoon light.

6. Explore the Desert Flora and Fauna

While Joshua Tree is known for its namesake trees, the park is also home to a rich diversity of desert plants and wildlife. The Cholla Cactus Garden and Ocotillo Patch are great places to see different varieties of cacti and desert flora. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, jackrabbits, roadrunners, and a variety of lizards and snakes. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting species like the greater roadrunner, red-tailed hawk, and the iconic Gambel's quail. Visiting the park during different seasons can offer varied flora displays, from wildflower blooms in the spring to the unique colors of the desert in the fall.

Joshua Tree National Park is a diverse and captivating destination that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you're hiking among the iconic Joshua trees, climbing the unique rock formations, stargazing under the clear desert skies, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape, Joshua Tree provides a memorable experience for all who visit. With its blend of natural wonders and recreational activities, this national park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Southern California.