Joshua Tree National Park
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Joshua Tree NP - by Elliott Engelmann on Unsplash
Description
Joshua Tree National Park is located east of Palm Springs in south-western California. It includes part of the higher Mojave Desert and the lower Colorado Desert and covers an area of over 3,200km2. It is named after the Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) native to the Mojave Desert. There are several trails inside such as the Hidden Valley, Cholla Cactus Garden or Lost Palms Oasis. Highlights include the Skull Rock, Keys View, Indian Cove, Black Rock Canyon, and Cottonwood Spring.
Access & Transport
The main access roads are along CA-62, going through the towns of Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms. The latter is 225km / 2h30 drive east of Los Angeles
Instructions & Recommendations
Best to head there early in the day, especially in the summer, and bring plenty of water (and a cooler) with you as well as sun protective equipment.
Environmental & Social
Infrastructure has been kept to a minimum so a green activity (besides the transport to get there) + some economic activity linked to tourism for the surrounding towns / communities.
Conclusion
Joshua Tree NP is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who don't mind desertic environment. Nothing truly exceptional about it but worth exploring for those with an extra day and already in south-eastern California
Key positive
Some photogenic natural features
Several hike options
Key negative
Can get very hot
Time consuming to get to
Suitability
Visitors with reduced mobility can enjoy the views from the road(s) but the trails are not suitable.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:3h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo
Max number of travellers:
Min. Child age:3
Max. child age:11