A desert panoramic © Armin Hornung
If you’re planning an extended backpacking or rock climbing trip, go for it! The park is great for those activities, but this exercise focuses on a more typical visit. Provided below is a one-day itinerary to let you know where to go and what to see. Camping is available in the park, but lodging is not. Nearby dining, grocery stores, lodging, festivals, and attractions are listed in the What’s Nearby section.
Day 1: If you’re arriving from the west, take CA-62 around the northern border to arrive at the park’s West Entrance in Joshua Tree. Be sure to make a quick pit-stop at Joshua Tree Visitor Center before entering. Browse the exhibits, watch the introductory film (upon request), and remember to pick up a current schedule of ranger programs at the visitor center or entrance station. Head into the park and stop at Hidden Valley. It’s a great place for an introduction to the interesting rock formations. If you have enough time, drive over to Barker’s Dam, which is also worth a visit. Head south past Cap Rock to Keys View Road. Drive to its end for one of the most stunning desert vistas in the park. On a clear day you can peer clear across southern California to Signal Mountain in Mexico. Make the return trip to Park Blvd. If you feel like a nice hike, pull into Ryan Mountain Parking Area to hike the 3-mile trail. Note that views here are comparable to those at Keys. Continuing along Park Blvd you’ll find plenty of opportunities to snap photos of intriguing Joshua trees. Stop at Jumbo Rocks to checkout some really cool rocks, including Giant Marbles. Return to Park Blvd and head south on Pinto Basin Road. Stop at Cholla Cactus Garden before exiting at South Entrance to I-10.