Things to do & places to visit in Joshua Tree National Park, California, United States

Spanning two deserts, the Joshua Tree National Park encompasses a wealth of natural beauty.

Joshua Tree National Park national park in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 13:18.

Top things to do (15)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School (40 reviews)
- Great Day Climbing
Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sports Camps & Clinics

Our family had a fantastic time climbing with the Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School. They were completely responsive to online inquiries, and the logistics of arranging the 6-hour private climbing session were easy. Dave was an excellent instructor and provided sound guidance to us as we climbed throughout the day. He ensured that everyone got to the top of each climb -- a hard task given different skill levels. I was surprised that he immediately put us on moderate and moderate-difficult climbs, but we all loved the challenge. We would definitely use them again. See more..
5.0 Wonderland of Rocks (17 reviews)
- Great for Rock Climbing or Hiking
Geologic Formations

This area, which is much less-traveled than the adjacent Hidden Valley, is absolutely stunning and perfect for both rock climbers and hikers alike. When I visited, I saw a few groups lead climbing, and one group trad climbing. The rocks are rated at about a 5.9...definitely not for the faint of heart! I hiked through this jungle of rock, and really enjoyed the scenery. It's very humbling, and I experienced moments of absolute silence to just take it all in. Definitely worth seeing over Hidden Valley...fewer people, and a much more impressive demonstration of the granite rock formations. See more..
5.0 Lost Palms Oasis Trail (11 reviews)
- Favorite Hike In Joshua Tree!
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

This hike is a little longer than a lot of the popular hikes in JT but well worth it. We saw more wildlife her than anywhere else from all sorts of lizards, rattlesnakes, a couple of desert tortoises and all sorts of birds. The topography was really cool in comparison as we finally got into some hills and then finally into the canyon that is the Losat Palms Oasis. Really a beautiful place filled with huge fan palms in the middle of nowhere. Hiking down in and then back out can certainly be tough for some people so be sure you are in reasonable shape to do so before venturing out. We also encountered very few people after the first mile so the solitude was nice. This is definitely worth a visit! See more..
5.0 Mission Well (3 reviews)
- Mission Well, Sunrise Well, Unknown Mill site, Cars in the Wash, and Gold Rose sites
Historic Sites

Only the ruins remain of this well, dug to provide water to mines nearby. See more..
4.5 Hidden Valley (668 reviews)
- Great even in the winter
Valleys

We drove from LA to Joshua Tree National Park for a day trip. Totally doable two hour drive - leave early to avoid traffic. The staff at the visitors centre were very helpful and helped us plan our route for the day. We entered through the Oasis Visitor centre and worked our way backwards to the Joshua Tree visitors centre... This made most sense as we were driving back in that direction to LA later that day. It also meant it wasn't as busy as most people were going the opposite direction. We went in January and it was still beautiful sunshine, however I suspect actually easier to do some of the hiking because of the cooler weather - there was even snow on the ground in some parts so bring good footwear. Obviously a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty... Well worth the $30 per car entrance fee (this lasts for 7 days).... Notable spots for a day trip are the Jumbo Rocks and Hidden Valley. Make it up to Keys View for the sunset ☺ See more..
4.5 Cholla Cactus Garden (580 reviews)
- Great Sunrise!
Gardens

Located inside Joshua Tree National Park, this small area contains awesome man-sized cacti that grow in profusion. See more..
4.5 Keys View (572 reviews)
- Perfect for the sunrise
Geologic Formations

A lookout point located a couple of thousand feet above Joshua Tree National Park that provides incredible views of sunrise and sunset. See more..
4.5 Barker Dam Trail (328 reviews)
- Drought has Taken a Toll
Nature & Wildlife Areas

This is a much prettier trail and dam to visit during non-drought times. Still, I would recommend hiking this trail. The petroglyphs and historical markers make this very accessible trail one the whole family can enjoy. See more..
4.5 Ryan Mountain (151 reviews)
- Not an easy hike, but so worth it.
Hiking Trails

Four mile hiking trail offering great views from the top. See more..
4.5 49 Palms Canyon Trail (139 reviews)
- Quintessential Desert Trail
Hiking Trails

Thoroughly enjoyed this hike which exemplifies the beauty of the desert ~ dry, rocky, and rugged. It's technically not inside Joshua Tree National Park which is why the ranger recommended it. It wasn't crowded at all and has grand views of the valley. The hillsides are dotted with cacti and desert plants blooming through cracks in rocks. It's startling to see tall palm trees rise up in the distance as you hike through dry desert hills. We packed sandwiches and sat on huge boulders for a picnic lunch at the end of the trail. It's worth the strenuous hike to reach the secluded palm tree oasis by the spring! I'd rate this hike as moderately difficult due to the meandering dirt trail that becomes very rocky at times and there is hardly any shade. Wear hiking shoes, hats and bring adequate water. There are some steep parts that are not suited to the very young/old. Trails aren't marked very clearly and visitors can go off trail easily. Highly recommend hiking poles. See more..
4.5 Arch Rock Nature Trail (119 reviews)
- loving rocks
Hiking Trails

boulder this boulder that Amazing place for hikers and climbers a must see must do most awesome place on earth Beyond beautiful Hiking Trails and routes are so interesting and beautiful. We did many trails in one day from morning to evening. The Joshua Trees and other wildlife is so special here. Sun rise and sun set is a must see desert beyond good See more..
4.5 Split Rock (92 reviews)
- simply the best hike
Hiking Trails

split rock rocks for climbers and hikers. It can be difficult finding parking most awesome place on earth Beyond beautiful Hiking Trails and routes are so interesting and beautiful. We did many trails in one day from morning to evening. The Joshua Trees and other wildlife is so special here. Sun rise and sun set is a must see desert beyond good See more..
4.5 Cap Rock Trail (74 reviews)
- A lovely walk in the desert
Hiking Trails

This is the Cap Rock Nature Loop. It is only 3 miles to enjoy the cacti and the rocks. While we walk we learn about flowers, rocks and way more At one time we had to enter through a small rock. That was fun! How does anything survive? Do the unique adaptations of many plants. and animals. There were a lot of boulders. We passed through the rocks. Wow! A must see! Getting to know the Joshua tree See more..
4.5 Geology Tour Road (52 reviews)
- 2 Guy's Drive the Road
Scenic Drives

For four wheel drive vehicles only, this challenging road offers some sweeping panoramic views. See more..
4.5 Keys Ranch (42 reviews)
- Put you Joshua Tree “picture” in a frame!
Historic Sites

We were lucky enough to reserve this Ranger led tour ahead of time (minimal fee) and it was so interesting and rich. You learn so much history of the area and of the lifestyle of the Keyes family (and families like them). It made the rest of our Joshua Tree exploring that much more enjoyable; like putting a picture into a frame! See more..
4.5 Cottonwood Spring (30 reviews)
- Restful Place to Visit
Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails

In the midst of the desert it is always nice to come across a bit of green and this place does not disappoint. Tall green palms and cottonwood trees surround the area. We were lucky to come across a couple of rabbits out for a bite to eat. See more..
4.5 Hall of Horrors (30 reviews)
- Fab slot canyon being missed!!!
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

First of all, Hall of Horrors is named for the slot canyon inside one of the groupings of rocks. I’m amazed that the reviews aren’t mentioning it!!!! People are missing it!! That’s the reason you come to this particular site. You’ll have to investigate how to find it because it’s not easy and there are some rocks to climb getting to it…but once you find it, it’s awesome! You might want to have a few people with you to help giving a leg up etc. for the initial climb needed. I’m only 5’4 and I needed help and so did my 5’10 husband. We met up with another couple determined to find it and we were able to help each other. I’m attaching a photo so you will know what awaits you! See more..
4.5 Wall Street Mill (28 reviews)
- An Easy Hike Into Desert Mining History
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

The hike to Wall Street Mill is an enjoyable 1.5 mi round trip that culminates at the site of the Mill. This is not a mine in and of itself, rather it is a site that crushes up the mined rock to prepare it for precious metal extraction. The site is remarkably well preserved and you'll also find some old abandoned vehicles. The hike is flat and easy except for those areas where you are walking on loose sand that takes a little more effort. You'll also see a marker that identifies the spot where Bill Keys shot and killed Worth Bagley in 1943 - a bit of history that you might find interesting if you dig a bit deeper. See more..
4.5 The Pinto Basin (26 reviews)
- A large Areas to see in your lifetimg
Deserts

The Mojave and Sonora deserts come together in this basin, with characteristics of both deserts represented. See more..
4.5 Lost Horse Valley (23 reviews)
- Lovely loop trail with some historic reminders
Valleys

Located in Joshua Tree National Park this is a small-box canyon that provides great hiking trails. See more..
4.5 Boy Scout Trail (14 reviews)
- The short option
Hiking Trails

We were a bit pressed for time so we improvised on this trail. We stopped at the Willow branch and headed back. That resulted in a hike of just under 3 miles. (It says it is was about 1.2 miles away but that is after a quarter mile hike from the parking lot. We were trying to get a sampling of the Park in one morning and this was a really great walk through the desert/Joshua Trees! We also did the skull rock loop (1.7 miles) and the Cholla Cactus Garden (.25 miles) We started at 6 am in La Quinta and made it back to our resort by Noon. We entered in the southeast (Cottonwood entrance) and drove the main path through the Park (exiting at the west entrance and paying $30) The Colorado desert (no Joshua trees) is quite different than the Mojave side. See more..
4.5 Eureka Peak (12 reviews)
- Stunning Vievs
Mountains

It is not very popular point in Joshua Tree NP but views from the peak are stunning. We were there on Wed. afternoon and were completely alone. You need to take La Contenta , then take connector road to Covingtons flat and final Eureka rd. All roads are sand roads but passable be regular car except time after strong rains. You can combine driving with hiking , hiking trail goes through Eureka peak. See more..
4.5 Ryan Ranch Homestead Site (7 reviews)
- 2 Guys Hiking In
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • National Parks • Hiking Trails

First the Campground is closed currently and you have to used the main road and the Ryan Ranch Trail. Not well marked but has a well used path. The trail takes you into the area and you can see the Ranch Ruins on your left. We choose to go left off the path to the ruins, but the path comes around to an old entrance . Wander around to see all the different things, windmill on ground, pump house and many More things. Coming back the trail goes left to campground? We went right and back to the parking on the highway. Comfort station at highway. Next is Woderland ranch in Joshua Tree NP See more..
4.5 Panorama Loop Trail (3 reviews)
- Awesome. Gorgeous views.
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

Gorgeous trail. Take the counter clockwise route for easy elevation. But that means that coming back there will be a steep rocky section. If you have poles you should be fine. See more..
4.0 Skull Rock (499 reviews)
- Easy walk, but not for people with mobility issues.
Geologic Formations

Short few minutes walk to the skull. There is a trail beyond the skull that has even more rocks. Good fun if you like climbing, however, I would recommend that you bring a hiking stick along if you have difficulty cloning down the rocks. Not child friendly. See more..
4.0 Cottonwood Visitor Center (127 reviews)
- park simply start here
Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Visitor Centers

very nice and helpful guides listen to all the tips from the guides. most awesome place on earth Beyond beautiful Hiking Trails and routes are so interesting and beautiful. We did many trails in one day from morning to evening. The Joshua Trees and other wildlife is so special here. Sun rise and sun set is a must see desert beyond good See more..
4.0 Twentynine Palms Oasis (Oasis of Mara) (84 reviews)
- 2 Guys walking in Joshua tree at the Oasis of Mara
Deserts

An oasis, located in Joshua Tree National Park, inhabited by the Serrano, Chemehuevi and Cahuilla Indian tribes. See more..
4.0 Lost Horse Mine (74 reviews)
- Clearly marked loop
Mines

We did this hike first thing before it got too hot and the parking lot filled up. The footing was good, there was lots to see in addition to the mine, and it was the right distance for us. The history of the mine was explained clearly. See more..
4.0 Queen Valley Road (14 reviews)
- Escape the hordes of tourists for a nice drive
Scenic Drives

This roadway was recommended by a park ranger in the visitor center. I drove a little more than half the distance on a cold, clear, gorgeous morning in February. Although there's nothing in the way of stupendous rocks or vegetation to "sink your teeth into," it is a very nice drive with scenery that is easy on the eye. The roadway begins by winding through some cool rock piles, then drops slightly into a flat, expansive valley. Overall, there's very little elevation change, and although the decomposed granite-type roadway is passable by all vehicles, it is very narrow: if someone comes the other way one of the drivers must find a turn-out, or put the right wheels slightly up on the shoulder embankment, in order to let the other pass. During my trip, I encountered only one other vehicle. Fortunately, there was enough shoulder room for several stops to take photos of the landscape. While out of the car, I noticed almost pure silence (not even birds) . . . it was amazing. See more..
4.0 Johnny Lang Grave (10 reviews)
- Johnnt Grave Site
Monuments & Statues

We had the wrong spot to search and spent some time beating the bushes looking and then gave up. While leaving we saw the Marked on the other side of Key View Road. Turned around and had a hard time parking because this area has curbs, but did find Lost Horse Mine Road and were able to park there and walk to the Grave Site. Could not read all of the marker but could still see his name. A part of this areas history about a miner that died on this lonely area. Was hard to find but worth the effort. Use care this seems to be a highway that is well used. Know the history before you goo. See more..