The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Situated just outside of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is truly a desert treasure. Encompassing three of California’s ecosystems, this rugged and surreal park offers unmatched landscapes, incredible biodiversity, and natural wonders like impressive rock formations—and, of course, the iconic twisting Joshua trees. We want to help you make the most of your time in this desert oasis, which is why we’ve crafted this ultimate guide to Joshua Tree National Park. With it, you’ll be able to navigate the park like an expert and ensure you don’t miss any of its natural marvels.

A Brief History of Joshua Tree National Park

Evidence shows that humans have been present in what is now Joshua Tree National Park for over 10,000 years. Archaeologists have discovered several stone tools and spearheads at the bottom of Pinto Basin, typical of the Paleoindian period. These are believed to have belonged to the Pinto Culture, who roamed the area as hunter-gatherers around 4,000 BC. Petroglyphs and radiocarbon dating also indicate human activity in the region between 2,000 and 8,000 years ago, pointing to the presence of Indigenous groups such as the Serrano, Cahuilla, and Chemehuevi, who were known to inhabit these desert regions.

Like many areas in California, gold and other valuable minerals were discovered here in the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting prospectors and miners hoping to strike it rich. Numerous settlements, ranches, and over 300 mining sites quickly developed. Two of the most notable and successful were Lost Horse Mine and Wall Street Mine, both of which tourists can still explore today.

In the early 20th century, the mines began to deplete, and the Great Depression caused the price of gold to plummet, significantly impacting operations. In 1936, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared the area a National Monument, largely thanks to the conservation efforts of Minerva Hoyt, a passionate desert advocate from Pasadena. In 1994, the California Desert Protection Act elevated the area’s status to that of a National Park, ending mining operations in an effort to preserve its unique landscape for future generations.

Find Your Way Around Joshua Tree National Park

This 800,000-acre park is defined by two desert ecosystems—the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert—as well as the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The Mojave Desert, at higher elevations, provides cooler temperatures where Joshua trees flourish. In contrast, the Colorado Desert, with its lower elevations, is home to cacti, creosote bushes, and other desert flora.

Park Boulevard runs through the northern part of the park, connecting the West Entrance Station near Joshua Tree Village to the North Entrance Station at Twentynine Palms. This stretch is home to many of the park’s most popular attractions, trailheads, and, of course, dense clusters of Joshua trees. These two entrances are most convenient for visitors arriving from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, or Palm Springs.

In the southern part of the park, the South Entrance Station is located along Cottonwood Springs Road, which becomes Pinto Basin Road and leads north to Pinto Wye and Park Boulevard. This entrance is ideal for travelers coming from Phoenix or those interested in exploring Colorado Desert highlights such as Lost Palms Oasis and Mastodon Peak.

Additional pedestrian access points include Black Rock Canyon Campground (via Joshua Lane), Indian Cove Campground, and the Indian Cove Boy Scout Trail just before the campground. Visitors with four-wheel-drive vehicles can also enter via backcountry dirt roads like Berdoo Canyon Road, Covington Flats Road, and Geology Tour Road.

We highly recommend downloading the National Park Service app before your trip. GPS directions are often unreliable in the park and may lead travelers onto unsuitable or dangerous backcountry roads. The app allows you to access maps and directions offline, plan your itinerary, and explore points of interest. If you plan to enter via a backcountry road, be aware that you may need to complete a free backcountry vehicle registration in advance.

Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree National Park

The best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is during spring (March to May) and fall (October to November), when temperatures are most comfortable.

According to the National Park Service website, the busiest time of year is between October and March. If you plan to visit during these months but want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday and entering the park before 8 a.m. Also, avoid holidays such as Thanksgiving, Spring Break, and Christmas.

In the fall, visitors can expect pleasant temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 32°C), making it ideal for longer hikes. October also hosts several exciting events, including the Night Sky Festival and the Joshua Tree Music Festival.

Winter is a great time for those seeking a quieter, more peaceful experience. However, daytime temperatures are cooler, typically around 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 18°C). Snow may be visible on mountain peaks, and icy roads—particularly near Keys View—can be hazardous.

Springtime brings beautiful blooming wildflowers, including the creamy white blossoms of Joshua trees, yellow desert marigolds, pink beavertail cactus, and white desert lilies. Temperatures usually range from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29°C), making it a wonderful time for hiking and exploring.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Joshua Tree National Park?

A standard entrance pass is valid for seven days of unlimited entry. The fees are as follows:

• Private vehicles: $30
• Motorcycles: $25
• Pedestrians and cyclists: $15 per person (free for children 15 and under)

If you plan to visit multiple times in a year, consider purchasing an Annual Pass for $55. It covers one motorcycle or one private vehicle with up to 15 passengers and is valid for 12 months.

For those planning to visit several national parks, the America the Beautiful Pass offers great value at $80. It grants unlimited entry to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including 60+ national parks. This pass is free for U.S. active-duty military and their dependents, U.S. fourth graders, U.S. citizens with a permanent disability, and Gold Star Families and veterans. U.S. seniors (62+) can purchase a discounted pass for $20.

All national parks, including Joshua Tree, offer free entry on the following days:

• National Day of Mourning for President Jimmy Carter
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• First Day of National Park Week
• Juneteenth National Independence Day
• Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• National Public Lands Day
• Veterans Day

How to Get to Joshua Tree National Park

By Car

From Palm Springs

Palm Springs is just a one-hour drive from two of the park’s entrances: the South Entrance Gate and the West Entrance Gate. To reach the West Entrance Gate, merge onto Interstate 10 West for six miles until you arrive at Exit 117 for CA-62 East. Take the exit and continue for 27 miles until you reach Park Boulevard and the West Entrance Gate. To enter via the South Entrance Gate, simply merge onto Interstate 10 East and drive for 45 miles until you reach Exit 168 for Cottonwood Springs Road and the South Entrance Gate.

From Los Angeles

Many travelers visit the park on a day trip from Los Angeles. The drive takes about two to three hours (approximately 140 miles), with the closest entry point being the West Entrance Gate near Joshua Tree Village. To arrive by car, take Interstate 10 East toward San Bernardino for about 80 miles, then merge onto CA-62 East for another 50 miles until you reach Park Boulevard and the West Entrance Gate. To avoid heavy traffic, try departing Los Angeles before the 7 a.m. rush or after 10 a.m.

From San Diego

Joshua Tree National Park is approximately 175 miles north of San Diego. While the South Entrance Gate may appear closer on a map, the fastest route (around three hours) leads to the West Entrance Gate near Joshua Tree town. Head north from San Diego on Interstate 15 North for 80 miles, then take Exit 29 to merge onto CA-60 East. Continue on CA-60 East, which eventually becomes Interstate 10 in Beaumont, for 50 miles. Then, take Exit 117 onto CA-62 East toward Yucca Valley and drive an additional 30 miles until you reach Park Boulevard and the West Entrance Gate. Alternatively, you can continue on CA-60 East past the CA-62 exit and reach the South Entrance Gate in 50 miles.

From Las Vegas

Las Vegas is roughly 215 miles from the park’s closest entry gate, the North Entrance Gate, which takes about three and a half hours to reach by car. While Google Maps may suggest shorter routes, avoid these, as they often lead drivers onto soft-sanded backroads. Instead, take Interstate 15 South from Las Vegas for 154 miles to Barstow. Then, take Route 183 to merge onto CA-247 South/Barstow Road. Follow CA-247 South and East for 88 miles until you reach CA-62 East in Yucca Valley. Turn left onto CA-62 East and drive for roughly two miles until you arrive at Park Boulevard and the West Entrance Gate.

Important: Do not rely solely on GPS or Google Maps. The area is remote and may direct you down unsafe, unpaved roads. Cell service is limited, so download your route in advance. Also, there is no food, water, or gas available inside the park—stock up beforehand.

By Guided Tour

Enjoy the stunning scenery of California and opt for a guided tour of Joshua Tree National Park!

From Las Vegas

If you’re planning to visit Joshua Tree National Park from Las Vegas, consider this Private Full-Day Tour. It includes stops at several popular sightseeing spots such as Skull Rock, Arch Rock, Hidden Valley, and Keys View. The tour comes with a personal driver/guide and offers optional stops at other popular attractions along the way. It’s fully customizable to fit your interests, making it well worth the investment!

From Palm Springs or Nearby Towns (e.g., Twentynine Palms or Joshua Tree)

This Private Sightseeing Adventure Tour of Joshua Tree National Park is perfect for anyone staying in Palm Springs or nearby towns. Your private guide will pick you up in an air-conditioned van and take you on a five-hour journey through the park, with stops at fantastic viewpoints and attractions like the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Quail Springs rock formations, Keys View, and the Cap Rock Nature Trail.

With an Audio Tour

Alternatively, if you prefer to drive but still want to learn more about the park, consider an Audio Driving Tour and Local Guide for your car. It works offline with no cell service required and covers the park’s history, environmental facts, and a wealth of local tips and hidden gems through its app.

How to Get Around Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park does not offer shuttle buses or public transportation. Therefore, the only way to get around is by driving yourself or joining a guided tour. A standard car (without four-wheel drive) is sufficient to reach the park’s most popular trailheads and points of interest. However, if you want to venture off the beaten path and explore the wilderness areas, a 4×4 vehicle is required.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Joshua Tree National Park?

While it’s possible to see many of the park’s highlights on a day trip, we recommend spending at least two days to explore at a more relaxed pace. In one day, you can visit Skull Rock for a morning scramble, hike the Hall of Horrors trail, explore Hidden Valley, and finish with a stop at Keys View.

With a two-day itinerary, you’ll have time to experience more of the park’s interior and escape the crowds. On Day 1, start with shorter hikes like the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, where you can see Joshua trees up close, followed by the Barker Dam Nature Trail, which features Native American petroglyphs. In the afternoon, head to the Skull Rock Nature Trail to view the famous skull-shaped rock, then cap off the day with a panoramic sunset at Keys View. After sunset, consider visiting Cap Rock for some incredible stargazing at this uniquely dark-sky location.

On Day 2, prepare for a longer adventure on the Lost Horse Mine Trail, a 6.5-mile loop that takes about three to four hours and leads to the historic Lost Horse Mine. After enjoying a packed lunch, drive approximately 30 minutes to the Cholla Cactus Garden and take a leisurely walk along the 0.25-mile loop through thousands of striking cholla cacti. Next, visit the Arch Rock Nature Trail to see the mesmerizing natural arch and nearby Heart Rock on a 1.4-mile trail, which typically takes about an hour. End the day with a challenging but rewarding three-mile hike up Ryan Mountain for a spectacular sunset and panoramic views.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park

Outside the Park

Depending on which part of the park you’d like to explore, we recommend staying either in Palm Springs or just outside the West Entrance Gate in Twentynine Palms.

In Twentynine Palms

After a day of hiking and exploring, why not return to a private home, soak in a rejuvenating hot tub, and stargaze with a bottle of wine? If that sounds like your kind of experience, consider booking this highly rated homestead cabin in the town of Joshua Tree. It sleeps four guests, is pet-friendly, and is located just a 15-minute drive from the West Entrance Gate. Situated on five acres, the cabin features a full kitchen, telescope, hammock, fire pit, barbecue, and more.

Another excellent option near the West Entrance Gate is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Twentynine Palms. It boasts a large outdoor pool, barbecue facilities, and complimentary breakfast to fuel your hikes. A variety of rooms are available that can accommodate one to four guests. Each room includes air conditioning, a coffee maker, a fridge, and complimentary toiletries.

In Palm Springs

Those looking to stay in Palm Springs can’t go wrong with Onsen Hotel and Spa, a four-star, adults-only hotel offering an outdoor pool and hot tub, an on-site spa and wellness center, and a fitness center. Standard rooms are available with or without a patio and can sleep up to four people. Guests who prefer more space can upgrade to one of the larger suites, which offer added privacy. All rooms include a desk, TV, air conditioning, fridge, and complimentary breakfast.

Traveling with little ones? Consider the highly rated Best Western Plus Coachella Valley Inn & Suites. Start your day with a complimentary all-American breakfast before venturing into the park, then return to enjoy an evening swim in the outdoor pool or a soak in the hot tub. Some rooms sleep up to four people and are equipped with a microwave, coffee maker, fridge, desk, and TV.

Inside the Park

The only lodging options inside the park are backcountry campsites and campgrounds. To backcountry camp, you’ll need to purchase a $6 permit online or visit the permit office in Twentynine Palms.

If you prefer to stay in a campground, there are several great options. Two of the most popular (and the only ones with water access) are Black Rock Campground and Cottonwood Campground. Both offer sites for RVs up to 35 feet, flush toilets, and require advance reservations, which can be made the same day or up to six months ahead.

Indian Cove Campground, Jumbo Rocks Campground, and Ryan Campground also require reservations and offer pit toilets, fire grates, and tables at each site. Jumbo Rocks and Ryan accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, while Indian Cove allows up to 25 feet. Though these campgrounds lack water access, a water station is available two miles down the road from Indian Cove at the ranger station.

The rest of the campgrounds in the park are first-come, first-served and can be quite competitive on weekends and holidays, so be sure to arrive early. Belle Campground, Hidden Valley Campground, and White Tank Campground all accommodate RVs up to 25 feet and offer pit toilets, tables, and fire rings.

What to Pack When Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park varies in elevation from 536 feet in the south to 5,814 feet in the Little San Bernardino Mountains, which means the weather can change significantly. Be prepared for a range of climates by packing a jacket (a heavier one in winter), a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, a reusable water bottle, and sunglasses. Other useful items to bring include a portable charger, sturdy hiking shoes, trekking poles, bug spray, a headlamp (for early morning or evening hikes), and a first aid kit.

Remember that there is no food or gas available inside the park, so be sure to fuel up and bring enough hiking snacks and food to last the day.

Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Here are a few tips and tricks we learned from our visit to the park:

• Watch Out for Jumping Cholla: In the Colorado Desert section of the park (including the Cholla Cactus Garden), there is a curious plant known as the jumping cholla or teddy bear cholla. While these prickly cacti don’t actually jump, their needles detach and break off very easily. If you brush against or get too close, the spines can attach to your clothes or skin. The needles have tiny barbs at the ends, making them very painful to remove. Avoid getting too close to these plants, and wear long-sleeved shirts, closed-toed shoes, and pants for added protection.
• Do Not Rely on GPS or Google Maps: As mentioned earlier, Google Maps and GPS are highly unreliable in the park. These services often direct drivers onto unmaintained roads that are unsuitable for most vehicles. We recommend downloading the National Park Service app in advance to access directions and maps offline.
• Fill Up Your Gas Tank: There are no gas stations within Joshua Tree National Park, so be sure to fill up your tank before entering. There is a Chevron just east of the South Entrance Station on I-10, along with several gas stations in Palm Springs and near the West and North Entrance Stations.
• Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: There are few places to refill water in the park and nowhere to purchase food. Pack at least one gallon of water per person per day, along with enough snacks and meals to last for the duration of your visit.
• Reserve Campsites Early: Since only a few campgrounds allow reservations in advance, we recommend booking as early as possible to guarantee a spot. Campsites can be reserved online up to six months ahead of time. If you don’t reserve in advance and plan to stay at a first-come, first-served campground, be sure to arrive early to secure a site before heading out for the day.
• Avoid the Summer Heat: Summer temperatures in Joshua Tree National Park can exceed 100°F (38°C), making conditions dangerous for outdoor activities. Try to avoid visiting during the summer months. If you do plan to visit in July or August, schedule your activities for early morning or evening to avoid the extreme heat. Some trails may be closed due to high temperatures.
• Bring Sun Protection: The California sun is intense, and you don’t want to ruin your trip with sunburn or heat stroke. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. For additional protection, wear breathable long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Bring Wipes or a Portable Shower: None of the campgrounds in the park have showers, and only two have access to water. After a day of exploring, you’ll likely want to freshen up. Bring body wipes, dry shampoo, or a portable shower to stay clean.

Best Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Below is our pick of the top things to do in Joshua Tree National Park.

Explore Hidden Valley

A visit to Joshua Tree National Park should include exploring the rocky basin of Hidden Valley. Visitors can hike the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, a one-mile loop just off Park Boulevard. Hundreds of small boulders and rocks create a beautiful bowl-like landscape where you can spot wildlife such as desert lizards, jackrabbits, and rattlesnakes. There is also an excellent shaded picnic area with public grills and restroom facilities—perfect for enjoying a packed lunch. Plan to spend anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes exploring Hidden Valley.

See Skull Rock

This iconic, skull-shaped rock formation is a unique and popular landmark located about a 20-minute drive from Keys View. Situated near Park Boulevard and just off the Skull Rock Nature Trail, visitors can snap photos of the eerie-looking rock before taking a leisurely walk along the 1.7-mile loop trail that connects to Jumbo Rocks Campground.

Take a Tour of Keys Ranch

The Keys family were pioneering homesteaders who settled in what is now Joshua Tree National Park in the early 20th century. They lived a fascinating life in this desert landscape, and visitors can learn all about their survival methods, controversies, and more on a ranger-led tour of the ranch. The tour includes the schoolhouse, workshops, ranch house, and other buildings, along with vintage mining and farming equipment. Tours last 90 minutes, are held between October and May, and must be booked in advance.

Go Rock Climbing

One of Joshua Tree’s defining features is its rocky desert terrain, making it an ideal destination for rock climbing. The park boasts over 8,000 climbing routes, attracting climbers of all experience levels. Known especially for its traditional (trad) routes, Joshua Tree served as a training ground for Yosemite climbers in the 1960s and ’70s. Popular climbing areas include Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Barker Dam, which also offer bouldering and sport climbing. If you’re new to the sport, consider booking a private climbing lesson or tour with Stone Adventures.

Enjoy Panoramic Views at Keys View

Keys View is an excellent spot to take in the captivating landscape of Joshua Tree from above. Located just a 40-minute drive from the West Entrance, it sits at an elevation of 5,185 feet and offers stunning views of the Coachella Valley, San Jacinto Mountains, and the Salton Sea. This popular viewpoint is best visited at sunrise or sunset and also offers incredible stargazing opportunities at night. During winter, be cautious of possible ice on the road. The drive along Keys View Road is especially magical in spring when wildflowers bloom along the route.

Hike the Hall of Horrors

Don’t let the name scare you—Hall of Horrors is one of the best places to hike in Joshua Tree. The 0.8-mile trail loops around a dramatic cluster of boulders and offers a unique desert landscape. Visitors can scramble over rocks, explore a hidden slot canyon (often marked by footprints), or try some rock climbing. The area is also a photographer’s dream, with several Joshua trees framed against stunning backdrops. This is a great short stop, conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Hidden Valley Nature Trail and Cap Rock.

Visit Arch Rock and Heart Rock

Arch Rock and Heart Rock are two unique and photogenic landmarks in the park. They are easily accessible, making them popular, and the trail is well-marked. Arch Rock, located along the Arch Rock Trail, is a 30-foot-long natural granite arch perched on a pile of boulders—ideal for climbing and enjoying panoramic views. It’s also a top spot for stargazing, sunrise, and sunset photography.

Heart Rock, once a hidden gem, is now easier to find thanks to trail signage and a well-trodden path. This large heart-shaped rock is a favorite for couple photos and scenic landscape shots.

The Arch Rock Trail is a 0.6-mile round-trip hike that is mostly flat and rated as easy—perfect for families. It typically takes about 30 minutes, but plan for more time if you want to explore the boulders. While the trailhead is located next to White Tank Campground, parking there is only allowed for registered campers. Visitors should instead park in the small lot along Pinto Basin Road (search “Arch Rock Nature Trail” on Google Maps).

Hike to Fortynine Palms Oasis or Stroll to Cottonwood Spring Oasis

Fortynine Palms Oasis is a fantastic destination for those looking for a scenic hike in Joshua Tree National Park. This natural desert spring is surrounded by towering California fan palms, providing welcome shade for hikers and wildlife alike. The moderately rated trail starts from the Fortynine Palms parking lot at a higher elevation and descends into a canyon—meaning the return hike is more strenuous. Hikers are rewarded with beautiful views over the town of Twentynine Palms. The trail is a three-mile round trip and takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat, as the only shade is at the oasis.

For those who prefer a shorter walk with less exertion, Cottonwood Spring Oasis is a great alternative. Located just a short stroll from the parking lot, it offers a peaceful setting with similar palm-dotted scenery and historical interest, without the need for a strenuous hike.

Visit Split Rock

A lesser-known landmark in the park is Split Rock. As the name suggests, this massive boulder has a clean split down the middle, as if someone took a sharp knife and cut it in half. This unique granite rock formation is located right beside the Split Rock Parking Lot, making it easy to visit. The parking lot also features a small picnic area with tables for enjoying a packed lunch, along with restrooms. Visitors can also hike the Split Rock Loop Trail, a two-mile scenic loop that is fairly flat and winds through dry washes and boulder piles. Along the trail, you’ll encounter other noteworthy rock formations like Skull Rock (a smaller version of the famous one in the park) and Face Rock.

Drive to Eureka Peak

If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle and want to escape the crowds for a peaceful desert experience, we highly recommend driving to Eureka Peak. Located in the Little San Bernardino Mountains on the park’s western edge, Eureka Peak is one of the highest accessible points in the park. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Morongo Basin, Coachella Valley, Mount San Antonio, San Gorgonio Peak, and San Jacinto Peak. This outstanding viewpoint is a 10-mile drive (20–30 minutes one way) from Black Rock Campground and offers a scenic route lined with hundreds of Joshua trees. Due to its high elevation, temperatures tend to be 10–20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in the valley, so bring a jacket. This is also an excellent place for stargazing and a popular biking route for experienced mountain bikers.

Drive Geology Tour Road

Geology Tour Road is the most popular backcountry scenic drive in Joshua Tree National Park—and for good reason. This 18-mile loop offers breathtaking scenic pullouts, hiking trails, and climbing routes through some of the park’s most dramatic desert landscapes. The good news is that even without a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can still drive a portion of the route for a few miles, as long as it is dry. At marker number 9 (Squaw Tank), a sign indicates that four-wheel drive is required to continue. Visitors can complete the entire route in roughly two hours, depending on how many stops are made along the way. Highlights include Pleasant Valley, the Squaw Tank granite basin, Gold Coin Camp, and the park’s oldest rock—Pinto Gneiss, estimated at 1.7 billion years old.

Stroll Through Cholla Cactus Garden

Nature lovers and photographers shouldn’t miss a visit to Cholla Cactus Garden. This striking golden and green area is filled with jumping cholla, also known as teddy bear cholla. These fuzzy-looking cacti make quite a spectacle, but despite their soft appearance, they can prick easily—so keep your distance. Enjoy photographing and walking the 0.25-mile trail that loops around the natural garden. There is a small parking area at the trailhead, along with vault toilets.

Go Horseback Riding

Joshua Tree National Park offers over 250 miles of horseback riding trails, making it an excellent destination for equestrian enthusiasts. It’s a fun and immersive way to explore the park, reminiscent of how pioneers once did. The park provides several equestrian-accessible campgrounds, designated dirt roads, and staging areas. Most of these are near Black Rock Campground and Eureka Peak. Visitors can also book guided horse tours through Knob Hill Ranch in Yucca Valley, Mountain View Ranch in Joshua Tree, or Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary in Joshua Tree.

Stargaze

Thanks to its elevation, remote location, and dry air, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places in California for stargazing. It is a designated International Dark Sky Park. On clear nights—especially near a new moon—visitors can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even satellites. Top stargazing spots include Keys View, Cap Rock, Eureka Peak, and Hidden Valley. Each October, the park hosts the Dark Sky Festival at the Sky’s The Limit Observatory & Nature Center just outside the park. This ticketed event features high-powered telescope viewing, astronomy talks by experts, and more. Tickets go on sale in the summer. Sky’s The Limit, a local nonprofit, also hosts monthly events—typically on the Saturday closest to the new moon—where the public can use their telescopes.

Go Hiking on Other Trails

With around 50 trails to choose from, Joshua Tree National Park has something for every hiker. For incredible summit views and a challenging climb, consider the Ryan Mountain Trail. This three-mile out-and-back hike is well-marked but steep in sections, gaining approximately 1,000 feet in elevation. It takes about two to three hours round trip. The trail offers little shade, so bring plenty of water.

Mastodon Peak and Warren Peak are also great for those seeking a strenuous but rewarding trek. Both trails gain around 1,200 feet in elevation and are out-and-back hikes that take about four hours to complete. Mastodon Peak is a 7.5-mile round trip with a summit that offers sweeping views of the Pinto Basin. The Warren Peak Trail is six miles long and provides expansive desert views from its 5,700-foot summit.

For an easier hike with a touch of history, try the Barker Dam Nature Trail. This 1.1-mile loop takes about 30–45 minutes to complete and leads to Barker Dam, a water basin built by cattle ranchers in the early 1900s. Water can still be found there, attracting wildlife like bighorn sheep. A short side path also leads to petroglyphs carved hundreds of years ago by Native Americans.

Another popular option is the Cap Rock Nature Trail, especially for those exploring Hidden Valley. This short, 0.4-mile loop passes by several Joshua trees and monzogranite boulders, creating a striking desert landscape. The nearby parking area includes picnic tables and restrooms, making it a convenient spot for a packed lunch.

FAQ About Joshua Tree National Park

Do I need a 4×4 to visit Joshua Tree National Park?
No, most of the park’s popular landmarks and trails are accessible by standard passenger vehicles. However, 4×4 and high-clearance vehicles are required for some backcountry roads, such as Geology Tour Road.

Is Joshua Tree National Park dog-friendly?
Yes and no. Dogs are allowed on paved and some unpaved roads, in campgrounds, and at picnic areas. However, they are not permitted on any trails or in backcountry areas.

Is there cell phone service in the park?
Cell service is very limited, so be sure to download maps and directions in advance.

What major films were shot in Joshua Tree National Park?
Several blockbuster movies have filmed desert scenes in the park, including The Mummy, The Gift, and Transformers.

Are there dangerous animals in Joshua Tree National Park?
Yes. Visitors should be aware of rattlesnakes, coyotes, scorpions, black widow spiders, and—very rarely—mountain lions.

When is Joshua Tree National Park open?
The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

There is nothing quite as peaceful and surreal as the desert. With its iconic rock formations, panoramic viewpoints, and breathtaking landscapes, Joshua Tree National Park is sure to amaze and inspire you. You may even find yourself coming back again and again.