JOSHUA TREE GUIDE
If you haven’t noticed by now, I am a huge fan of Joshua Tree National Park and this post is long overdue. It doesn't matter what time of year you go, the ambiance of this desert is absolutely one of a kind. With glorious peaks and hidden oasis, Joshua Tree provides a wide scope of opportunity for nature’s lovers. Throughout the years, I have had several trips to Joshua Tree; some filled with sweaty hikes and others of relaxation. I am going to give you insight on how to do it both ways.
LODGING
Camping is always one way to go about it! Joshua Tree has various camp sites for all the adventurous visitors. Passes can be purchased to reserve a spot through their National park website. I dont shy away from camping, in fact its an activity I thoroughly enjoy. Always remember to be safe and do your research prior. After all this is a desert, there is wildlife and extreme climates to take into consideration.
AirBnB is another fun route! We have stayed in airstreams, tiny homes, and cabins. This is probably the best choice for glampers. There are endless glamping options in Joshua Tree. Now there is not airbnbs within the national park, however they are in the city and surrounding cities such as Tentynine palms and Yucca Valley. For the most part, you can find a unique stay easily within a 20 minute drive to the park.
Check out two of my favorite stays!
The Land Yacht
Moonset-- New Modern Boho Villa Soak Tub and Hot Tub
EXPERIENCES
There is more to Joshua Tree than camping and hiking. There are various local businesses that provide unique experiences. These experiences can be booked through their websites, airbnb, and in person. From yoga to horseback riding, there activities for every kind of adventurer. One of my favorite experiences was participating in a sound bath. Linked below is the one I attended! This experience was liberating and relaxing. Leyah conducted the sacred sound and tea ceremony and provided a welcoming and loving environment.
Sacred Sound and Tea Ceremony Link
Pioneertown is a historical town and movie set near Joshua Tree. This western town had been around since 1946. You can walk through the set and stop by at little shops with unique desert trinkets and souvenirs. Within Pioneertown, there is a restaurant and concert venue named Pappy and Harriets. Live music shows are occurring multiple times a week and they have a calendar online so tickets can be purchased. Walk-ins are welcomed however there will be wait. The food is so good that I over order do I can take leftovers home.
Here are some of my recommendations:
Half rack of ribs
Rib eye
Fries
Cole slaw
Mac and cheese
Broccoli
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Another good restaurant that I tend to stop at on my mornings back home from a weekend in Joshua Tree is Crossroads Cafe. This is my go to spot for breakfast. It is located in Joshua Tree and in an area with ligiour stores and gas stations. I like to stop here because I can fill up my stomach and gas tank with minor inconvenience. I, personally, enjoy the Zydeco Breakfast.
HIKING
Joshua Tree National Park has an array of different hiking trails for novice hikers to experts. These trails include nature loops, hidden oasis's, and high peaks. Their website has the hiking trails organized by difficulty and provides information on their distance and altitudes. Some trails are frequented even by rock climbers who you will see rappelling from the mountain sides as you walk down below. Make sure to always stay on the trails and pack everything you will need in order to be comfortable. I always make sure to have plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Always be vigilant of your surroundings! I have had an encounter or two with a rattlesnake! And remember in order to keep Joshua Tree beautiful, clean up after yourself and don't leave trash behind.
Trails I Enjoy:
Arch Rock Trail
Cholla Cactus Garden
Hidden Valley
Skull Rock
Ryan Mountain
Fortynine Palms Oasis
It is impossible to encapsulate everything Joshua Tree has to offer in one blog post! These are just a couple of my recommendations. Stay tuned on Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube for future recommendations on one of my favorite places to visit and many more!