Is Joshua Tree a national park open?
The park is always open and may be visited anytime of year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring, and diminishes during the heat of summer. For current conditions, visit Joshua Tree's weather on NOAA.
What are the best things to do in Joshua Tree?
Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
- Hike the Short Trail to Arch Rock. ...
- Wander the Unique Cholla Cactus Garden. ...
- Go Rock Climbing (or Scrambling!) Joshua Tree National Park attracts climbing enthusiasts from all over the world. ...
- Enjoy the Striking Panoramas from Keys View. ...
- Walk the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. ...
- Hike to Barker Dam. ...
- Pose for a Photo by Skull Rock. ...
- Take a Guided Tour of Keys Ranch. ...
When to visit Joshua Tree?
The Best Time of Year to Visit Joshua Tree
- Spring: The Best Time for Climbing and Photography. When the park’s official website states that March and April are the busiest months for visitation, it’s a good indicator that there’s ...
- Autumn: The Best Time for Sunset Vistas. ...
- Winter: The Best Time for Big Hikes. ...
- Summer: The Best Time to Stargaze. ...
- More Desert Adventures. ...
When does Joshua Tree open?
Joshua Tree National Park is open every day, year round. Oasis and Joshua Tree Visitor Centers are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Cottonwood Visitor Center is open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Why is Joshua Tree National Park modifying operations?
Joshua Tree National Park is modifying operations to support federal, state, and local efforts to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
When is the season closure for the raptor?
Seasonal closures run from late February through June to protect nesting raptors. Closures change from year to year. If you are planning to climb in the park from late February to July, please follow the link for more information. more.
Is Keys Ranch open?
Keys Ranch is open on a limited basis and visitation is restricted to guided walking tours. Tickets are required and can be reserved ahead of time on recreation.gov. Climber Coffee is running from February 27 to April 4, 2021, Sat and Sun; 8–10 am at Hidden Valley Campground. Loading weather forecast...
The Itinerary
JT161 by T.M. SchultzeA lone Joshua Tree behind stormy weather in Joshua Tree National Park’s Queen Valley.
Christmas Morning
In the morning, I wanted to cover some place that I often overlook, so I headed over to the Stirrup Tank turn-off. I had the place to myself. The actual Christmas Star 2, which was actually Venus glowing brightly at sunrise, was a nice gift.
Further Viewing
T.M. Schultze is a San Diego-based photographer, traveller, and writer. He writes, photographs, and draws things of the outdoors that have inspired humans for thousands of years. He co-authored the Photographer’s Guide to Joshua Tree Park which can be purchased here.
How Many Days Do You Need in Joshua Tree?
Day trips are totally fine for anyone in the California area, and it’s not unheard of to get the family roused nice and early on a Sunday morning and spend the day hiking throughout the park.
Why is Joshua Tree in winter?
Winter is one of the busiest seasons in Joshua Tree. This is because winter temperatures don’t get very low at the park during the day. So everyone who wants to visit a national park in winter, but who doesn’t want to deal with super cold daytime temperatures (ahem, I’m looking at you Bryce Canyon ), will find themselves in Joshua Tree during the winter months.
How many campgrounds are there in Joshua Tree National Park?
There are a total of nine campgrounds at Joshua Tree. And besides having instant access to stargazing and good old-fashioned marshmallow roasting, you are directly supporting the National Park Service by camping at their campsites, which is a win-win.
What is the best rock to climb in Joshua Tree?
Skull Rock is a favourite place to explore and climb in Joshua Tree. This unique rock which, yes, looks just like a skull, is right off the roadside. You can stop for photos and lunch or you can park and take the 1.7-mile hike that’s just across the road. This is another must-see and one of the park’s most unique rock formations.
What is the best way to get around Joshua Tree?
Driving is the best way to get around Joshua Tree in winter!
What do you notice when you visit Joshua Tree?
When you visit Joshua Tree for the first time, you’ll notice its idiosyncratic trees that give the park its name. They seem alien and unfamiliar with their sharp spines and bulbous growths, twining up above your head, reaching for the sun.
Where is the West entrance to Joshua Tree?
The West Entrance is just south of Joshua Tree Village, on Highway 62. The South Entrance is near Cottonwood Spring. You can access it from Interstate 10 and it’s about 25 miles east of Indio, CA. The North Entrance is just a couple of miles to the south, where Highway 62 meets the Utah trail.
