Joshua Tree National Park in USA -famous for its desert trees reaching for the sky

The easily accessible Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California, USA, is the place to go for getting an easy glimpse of what life is like in a real desert. A national park since 1936, Joshua Tree is a collection of mountains, canyons, oases and wide-open desert landscapes with an interesting crowd of dry-loving plant and animal species living on a spectacular landscape that at first glance seems to be lifeless.

Desert scenery in Joshua Tree National Park

Spesific features of nature. The area of Joshua Tree National Park consists of two different desert ecosystems, lying in different altitudes. The higher of the areas, Mojave Desert is the home of the famous distinctive Joshua trees, which form a memorable sight reaching towards the sky with their dry branches. These yucca-plants, which today are the best known sight in Joshua Tree National park, are said to have nominated according to the Bible by Mormon settlers who thought of them as the arms of Joshua reaching for the sky.

Chuckwalla lizard sunbathing in Joshua Tree National Park

Landscapes and sights. Besides the famous trees nominating the park, Joshua Tree National Park draws visitors also with its panoramic views, which are best admired from lookout points such as Key’s View, an easy access point at the altitude of 1,580 m. See also the Oasis of Cottonwood Springs and the photogenic Wonderland of Rocks, a place beloved by those who plan to try rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park.

Joshua Tree sunset, California

Sports. As for trekking in Joshua Tree National Park, the most popular areas are Hidden Valley and Berker Dam Wildlife Reservoir, where you can with some good luck get a glimpse of coyotes or other desert animals. There are also over 250 species of birds to see in the area. Another good way of seeing the park, mountain biking in Joshua Tree National Park is practiced on dirt roads and mountain trails. However, no matter which way of touring in the park you choose, remember that the area consists of desert where it is easy to underestimate the amount of water needed for your tour.

Cholla cactus garden in Joshua Tree National Park

Practical information for your trip to Joshua Tree National Park

Located in sunny Southern California, in Southwest USA, Joshua Tree is National Park best reached by air through the airport of Palm Springs.

The nearest place for international flights and travelling to Joshua Tree National park is Los Angeles, which is 140 miles / 225 km away from the park. The closest towns to the national park are Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms. Moving around in the area is easy along the main road taking you through the area and along the dirt roads. Best alternatives for car rental near Joshua Tree National Park are offered in Palm Springs and in Los Angeles region. There is an admission fee to the park.

Rocky landscape of Joshua Tree National Park

Weather. Joshua Tree National Park consists of desert areas in two different altitudes. Local climate is characterized by extremely hot summers with average monthly high temperatures rising to 40°C or above during the hottest months of the year. Therefore, stay away from the park in June, July, August and September unless you are accustomed to extreme hot circumstances. During the cooler period, which lasts from October to May, the park enjoys mostly pleasant 20–35°C temperatures.

Visitor services. A popular site for nature-based travel in California, Joshua Tree National Park is a destination suitable for a day tour or for longer excursions. Alternatives offered for accommodation in Joshua Tree National Park are restricted to camping grounds and backcountry camping. Closest hotels and restaurants are found in the towns of Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms. These two towns offer also some bars, but apart from that, the screaming of the coyotes forms the most important excitement of nightlife in Joshua Tree National Park. If you are well prepared to severe nature conditions of the desert, the area is safe to visit.