National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS / Emily Hassell
Joshua Tree National Park
Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
3 mi · 1,050 ft gain · out & back
One of the most popular hikes with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding desert and mountain ranges.
Starts at: Ryan Mountain parking area
1.1 mi · 50 ft gain · loop
Explore a water tank built by early ranchers in a boulder-framed valley with opportunities to spot bighorn sheep.
Starts at: Barker Dam parking area
1 mi · 100 ft gain · loop
Rock-enclosed valley once rumored to have been used by cattle rustlers to hide stolen livestock.
Starts at: Hidden Valley picnic area
4 mi · 550 ft gain · out & back
Well-preserved mining equipment and structures from the 1890s at one of the park's most successful gold mines.
Starts at: Lost Horse Mine trailhead
Upcoming Events
Sunset Stroll
Join a ranger for a 0.4 mile (0.6 km) guided walk. We will learn about various topics like plants, animals, geology, cultural history, and more. Make sure to bring water, closed-toe shoes, and layers for a 45-minute walk.
Join us on a ranger-led tour and learn about the cultural history of Keys Ranch. Topics may include Native American history, mining, ranching, homesteading, the Keys family, and the site’s transition into a protected historical site.
Join Joshua Tree rangers at the Sky's the Limit Observatory! Gaze at the stars, see constellations, and learn about universe together. Note that Wednesday programs include an astronomy talk and a constellation tour, but do not feature telescopes.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: January
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.