What to See
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is one of the main reasons people come to visit the area. If you haven’t already, we highly recommend checking out the official JTNP site for the most up to date info.
There are multiple entrances to the park. The West Entrance (in Joshua Tree) is the closest to Green Jackrabbit, but the North Entrance (in 29 Palms) can sometimes be quicker if things are crowded or you’re headed to the east side of the park. There is also a south entrance near Cottonwood Springs that is closer to Palm Spring/Coachella but it’s pretty far from most of the things people come to the park to see.
You will not have cell service in the park! Plan ahead by getting a map and figuring out where you want to go. We recommend downloading offline maps to your phone as well.
Here are some of the things in the park you should check out. All of these are relatively easy to get to.
“L.A. Rocks” - This is what I call one of the first big grouping of rocks inside the JT entrance of the park. Named because there’s a good chance you’ll see a photo shoot and a bunch of people that have driven out from LA for the day parked there. It is a good place to take some quick pictures just off the side of the road and get the JT vibe. If there’s a clear spot to park on the side of the road, check it out.
Hidden Valley - Great place for eating lunch with multiple picnic areas. There’s also the short nature trail. If you only do one hike in JTNP we recommend this one.
Intersection Rock - A good chance you’ll see some climbers on this during good weather
Barker Dam - If you’re up for a bit of a hike, this is one of our top recommendations for first time visitors to JTNP. If there’s been rain recently you might see a small lake in the desert, maybe even some bighorn sheep coming for a drink.
Jumbo Rocks - If you can to JTNP to see some rocks, this is the place! As the name says, there are some big rocks to scramble and explore.
Arch Rock / Heart Rock - Arch Rock is another one of the most seen places in Joshua Tree. This should probably be under hikes since you now have to park in the trailhead parking lot and make the hike to Arch Rock. Once you’ve seen Arch Rock, go searching for Heart Rock
Skull Rock - Stop by if you’re going through the 29 Palms entrance to the park. It’s a quick stop but often crowded.
Cap Rock - Is it going to fall off? Who knows, maybe some day!
Key’s View - Go on a clear day (or a stormy one!) for a great view of Coachella Valley. Can get crowded, especially around sunset. If you can get a parking spot around sunset, stick around for it. But also don’t forget your jacket! It can be several degrees colder and often windy.
Cholla Cactus Garden - Definitely hit this if you’re staying in Palm Springs, otherwise it’s a bit of a drive through the park. Still if you have the time and you’ve never seen it, it’s worth the drive. You’ll also get to see the transition of the Mojave Desert into the Colorado Desert as you head south. Keep an eye out for ocotillos!
Keys Ranch Tours - If you can, join a ranger-guided tour of Keys Ranch. Tours are only held part of the year, and tickets need to be purchased in advance, but it’s the only way to tour this historic ranch filled with old buildings and abandoned cars.
There’s plenty more to see in the 800,000 acres of Joshua Tree National Park, but that’s a good start…