Palm Springs & Desert Attractions

Spectacular granite formations, plus unique desert plants, make Joshua Tree National Park a rock star. Climbers from around the world scramble across its boulder fields and ascend its spires and pillars. They're joined by hikers, campers, nature buffs and families -- about 1.2 million visitors annually. A favorite spot is Hidden Valley, a recreation area concealed by huge boulders. Its surreal landscape of jumbled rocks and pinyon pines is popular with climbers and families during the day and with stargazers at night. The evening sky astounds visitors with its brilliance. Where else can you see a zillion stars framed by the stark limbs of the Joshua tree?
- Rosemary McClure, L.A. Times (Nov. 18, 2007)

One of the best things about living in L.A. is that you can easily escape the concrete madness to whatever type of wilderness you are in the mood for: ocean, mountains, pine forest or desert. Joshua Tree is the perfect choice when you're seeking a desert and just a three-hour drive southeast of L.A., it's certainly within reach.

Whether an overnight camping trip or a weekend drive (cheap motel rooms are available in the towns of Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley or Twentynine Palms) Joshua Tree possesses a magic unlike any other place on earth. Two deserts come together at Joshua Tree. The Colorado Desert in the eastern section of the park offers low desert formations and plant life (and wildlife). The Joshua tree habitat lies in the higher, cooler and wetter Mojave Desert in the western park area.

You can do a cursory weekend breeze-through, or focus for as many hours (or days) as you'd like on your favorite terrain -- from rock-climbing to checking out the Indian petroglyphs at the old Squaw Tank dam. There are 35 miles of riding and hiking trails. Just be sure to stop at a gas station first and bring lots of water -- there are no facilities of any kind inside the park. Park officials recommend that visitors drink at least one gallon of water per day to avoid dehydration, two if they are active.

- Los Angeles Times