Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California, near Palm Springs. It’s quickly becoming one of the most visited national parks in the United States. It has something for everyone. Whether you’re a hiker, rock climber, photographer, young or old, you’ll find plenty of things to do for an adventurous time.
When to Visit
Joshua Tree can be brutally hot in the summer months. The best time to visit is fall through early Spring. Always check current conditions before you visit.
Tips
You will definitely want to plan ahead to visit the most popular spots early in the day. Parking space can be very limited at the trailheads. If you’re planning to camp, use Recreation.gov to reserve your campsite. There are numerous lodging options (airbnb, hotels, BLM, private campgrounds) nearby as well.
Best Joshua Tree Hikes for Beginners
Cholla Cactus Garden
Photo by @adventure.planner
Cholla Cactus Garden is one of the most unique gardens you’ll visit. It’s located near the park’s north entrance and features a large collection of cholla cacti. This is an easy 0.25-mile walk.
Hidden Valley
Photo by @stephie_109
Hidden Valley is an easy 1-mile loop walk through Joshua Tree’s unique boulders and rock formations. Its interpretive signs introduce you to the park’s flora and fauna.
Barker Dam
Photo by @adventure.planner
Barker Dam is an easy 1.5-mile loop hike through some amazing rock formations. The water reservoir provides an important resource for the park’s wildlife.
Lost Horse Mine
Photo by @kar_wash_dawsh
Lost Horse Mine is a 4-mile out and back hike to a well preserved mine and mill.
Best Joshua Tree Hikes for Intermediate & Experienced Hikers
Lost Palms Oasis
Photo by @adventure.planner
Lost Palms Oasis is a 7-mile hike to an oasis featuring the highest concentration of California Fan Palms in the park.
Willow Hole
Photo by @adventure.planner
Willow Hole is a 7-mile roundtrip hike to a surprise oasis and seasonal pools. x
Ryan Mountain
Photo by @adventure.planner
Ryan Mountain is a moderately strenuous 3-mile hike to the 5,458’ summit, with views of Queen, Lost Horse and Pleasant valleys.
Quail Mountain
Photo by Geoff Pasley via AllTrails
Quail Mountain is a strenuous, mostly off trail 13-mile hike to the highest peak (5820’) in the park.
Best Joshua Tree Hike for Backpackers
California Riding and Hiking Trail
Photo by @adventure.planner
Perhaps the best way to visit Joshua Trees is by thru-hiking the California Riding and Hiking Trail. It is a 37-mile thru hike that runs from the Black Rock Canyon trailhead in the east and ends at the north entrance. Along the trail you’ll have sweeping views of the high desert, rock formations and the iconic Joshua trees.
Do you have a favorite Joshua Tree hike not covered above? Let us know in the comments below!
Ready to plan your ultimate Joshua Tree adventure?
Let Adventure Planner help turn your adventure dreams into reality. We designed this planner for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor / camping enthusiasts. If you dream about hiking and spending time in the great outdoors while sitting in front of a desk, this planner is for you! We designed this planner to help us plan for trips throughout the year, keep us on track for health & fitness goals, challenge ourselves to schedule at least one adventure every month, and stay connected to nature in our day to day life.
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