Top 15 Things to See and Do in Joshua Tree National Park

1. See the Iconic Joshua Trees
No visit to the park is complete without admiring the namesake Joshua Trees. These spiky, twisted yuccas are most abundant in the Mojave Desert section of the park. Head to the western portion of the park, near Hidden Valley and Barker Dam, for the densest forests of Joshua Tre2. Explore Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is a favorite among visitors for its dramatic rock formations and easy 1-mile loop trail. It’s perfect for families and first-time visitors, offering insights into the area’s geology, flora, and fauna. This area is also popular with rock climbers and boulderers.

3. Visit Barker Dam
Barker Dam is one of the few places in the park where you might see water, especially in spring. The 1.1-mile loop trail leads you past historical structures built by early cattle ranchers and provides a chance to spot bighorn sheep and birds.

4. Climb to the Top of Ryan Mountain
For panoramic views of the park, the Ryan Mountain Trail is a must. This moderately challenging 3-mile round-trip hike gains 1,000 feet in elevation and offers some of the best vistas in Joshua Tree.

5. Marvel at Skull Rock
Easily accessible from the road, Skull Rock is a natural rock formation that looks like a giant skull. It’s a fun photo opportunity and a great spot to stretch your legs and explore surrounding rock formations.

6. Walk Through Cholla Cactus Garden
The Cholla Cactus Garden, located in the transition zone between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, features thousands of densely packed “teddy bear” cholla cacti. Sunrise and sunset provide especially magical lighting for photos.

Experience Keys View
Drive up to Keys View for breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and even Mexico on a clear day. This lookout is especially stunning at sunset.

8. Visit the Oasis of Mara
Located near the Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms, the Oasis of Mara has a short, paved trail with interpretive signs. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.

9. Go Stargazing
Joshua Tree is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in Southern California to see the stars. Cottonwood Campground, Sky’s the Limit Observatory, and the areas around Pinto Basin offer incredible night sky views.

10. Rock Climbing and Bouldering
With more than 8,000 climbing routes and 2,000 boulder problems, Joshua Tree is a rock climber’s paradise. Popular climbing areas include Intersection Rock, Echo Rock, and Quail Springs.

11. Discover Arch Rock
Located near the White Tank Campground, Arch Rock is a natural granite arch that’s especially photogenic. A short trail takes you to the formation, with plenty of other boulders to scramble around.

12. Take the Boy Scout Trail
This 8-mile one-way trail is perfect for a longer day hike or an overnight backpacking trip. It traverses a wide variety of terrain, from Joshua Tree forests to rock-studded canyons.

13. Explore Pioneertown
Just outside the park, Pioneertown was originally built as a movie set in the 1940s and now functions as a quirky Old West-style town. Stop by Pappy & Harriet’s for great food and live music.

14. Visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
Located near Joshua Tree Village, this open-air museum features massive, thought-provoking sculptures made from found objects. It’s a fascinating side trip for lovers of art and culture.

15. Check Out the Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center
Located near the park’s North Entrance in Twentynine Palms, this observatory offers public star parties and guided night sky programs. It’s an excellent place to deepen your appreciation of the cosmos.

Final Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree
– Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking.
– Cell service is limited inside the park, so download maps ahead of time.
– Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection.
– Visit during spring or fall for milder temperatures and blooming wildflowers.

Other points of interest:

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Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Joshua Tree National Park delivers unforgettable experiences that inspire awe and adventure. Pack your camera, hiking boots, and a sense of wonder — and get ready to explore one of California’s most iconic landscapes.