4 Hidden Gems of Joshua Tree National Park
We’re huge fans of Joshua Tree and we’ve extensively covered the must-do attractions in and around it, but did you know that this wonderland of rocks is also host to a world-famous wildflower bloom? In this guide, we’ll cover four unusual ways to experience the beauty and wonder of Joshua Tree will take your visit to the next level.
#1 - Experience the Magic of Stargazing
If you've ever visited Joshua Tree during the day, you know just how stunning and otherworldly the landscape can be. But what happens when the sun goes down and the stars come out? That's when the real magic begins.
As the night falls on this geological wonderland, the clear, dark skies come alive with celestial bodies. The minimal light pollution in the area makes it one of the best stargazing destinations in the country, with a wide range of stars, planets, and galaxies visible to the naked eye. Many visitors bring telescopes or binoculars to get an even closer look at the night sky, while others simply lay on their backs and take in the beauty of the stars.
One of the most popular stargazing spots in the park is Keys View, which offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the surrounding mountains. From this vantage point, you can see all the way to the Salton Sea on a clear night. Another popular spot is Hidden Valley, which is surrounded by towering rock formations that provide a natural amphitheater for stargazing.
Whether you're an experienced astronomer or just a casual stargazer, Joshua Tree is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the night sky. So if you're planning a trip to the park, be sure to bring your telescope or binoculars and stay up late to take in the beauty of the stars. Here’s the how-to on stargazing at Joshua Tree from National Park Service. You won't be disappointed.
Tip #2 - Get Off the Beaten Path With a Lesser-Known Hike
While most park visitors are familiar with the more popular hikes in Joshua Tree, such as the Ryan Mountain Trail, Barker Dam and Hidden Valley Nature Trail, there are plenty of other hiking opportunities that are lesser known and off the beaten path. These trails offer a chance to escape the crowds and explore the park's unique landscape in a more peaceful and serene setting.
One such trail is the Quail Mountain Trail, which is located in the western portion of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding Southern California desert landscape from higher elevations. This moderate hike is about 5.5 miles round trip and takes you to the top of Quail Mountain, the highest peak in the park at 5,814 feet. Along the way, you'll pass through a variety of habitats, including Joshua tree forests, rocky slopes, and sandy washes. At the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Another unique hiking opportunity is the Geology Tour Road, which is a self-guided driving tour (separate from Park Boulevard) that takes you through the park's geologically diverse landscape. This tour covers about 12 miles of rugged dirt roads and takes you past some of the park's most interesting and unusual rock formations, including Wall Street Mill and the Jumbo Rocks Campground. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to spot a variety of desert plants and animals.
Finally, the Boy Scout Trail is a more strenuous hiking option that takes you through the heart of the park and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the area. This 14-mile round-trip trail takes you through the park's signature Joshua tree forests and past a variety of rock formations, including the iconic Skull Rock. The trail can be challenging, but the views from the top of Quail Mountain are well worth the effort.
So if you're looking for a unique hiking experience, be sure to consider one of these lesser-known trails. They may not be as crowded as the more popular routes, but they offer just as much beauty and wonder.
Tip #3 - Discover The Park Through Your Lens
With its otherworldly landscapes and stunning rock formations, it's no wonder that this national park is a photographer's paradise. Whether you're a professional photographer or a amateur shutterbug, you'll find plenty of opportunities to capture beautiful shots.
Some of the best spots for photography in the park include Skull Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, and Keys View. Skull Rock is an iconic rock formation that looks exactly as it sounds – like a giant human skull. This popular spot is a favorite among photographers for its dramatic and otherworldly appearance. The Cholla Cactus Garden is another must-see spot for photographers, with its dense groves of cholla cactus and other desert plants. Finally, Keys View offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the surrounding mountains, making it a great spot for landscape photography.
But these are just a few of the many photography opportunities available in this vast preserve. With over 790,000 acres of rugged landscape to explore, you'll find plenty of other subjects to photograph, including rock climbing routes, desert wildflowers, and a variety of desert animals.
Whether you're a professional photographer or just an amateur shutterbug, Joshua Tree is a destination that you won't want to miss. So if you're planning a trip to the park, be sure to bring your camera and get ready to capture some truly breathtaking shots.
Tip #4 - See The World-Famous Wildflowers
One of the most beautiful times to visit the park is during the wildflower season, when the desert landscape is transformed into a tapestry of color. Each year, the park is home to a variety of wildflowers, including desert lilies, desert dandelions, and desert primroses. These flowers typically bloom from February to April, depending on the weather.
To see the wildflowers at their best, it's best to visit the park during this time. The best place to see the wildflowers is in the lower elevations of the park, such as the Mojave and Colorado deserts. Some of the best spots for wildflower viewing include the Cholla Cactus Garden, the Desert Queen Mine, and the Lost Horse Mine Trail.
If you're planning a trip to see the wildflowers, it's a good idea to check the park's website or social media pages for updates on the wildflower season. The park's rangers and naturalists can also provide information on the best places to see the wildflowers and what types of flowers you can expect to see.
So if you're looking to experience the beauty of wildflowers, be sure to plan your trip for February to April and head to the lower elevations of the park. With a little bit of planning and some luck with the weather, you'll be able to see the desert landscape in all its colorful glory.
Tip #5 - Stay in Luxury
There’s nothing better than returning to a custom-built luxury villa with your group or family after an adventure in Joshua Tree National Park.
At Palms at Park, we designed and built all of our homes to be the best in Palm Springs. Every home has 5 or more bedrooms with an en suite bathroom in each one. Sparkling private swimming pools, spas, fire pits and much more await your arrival. And since you’re already here on our site, you can book with us directly and avoid all of the service fees that the big vacation rental sites charge.
Overall, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're interested in stargazing, hiking, photography, or wildflower viewing, there's something for everyone at this unique and beautiful national park. So why wait? Plan your trip to Joshua Tree National Park today and start exploring all that this amazing destination has to offer!