Attractions in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Depending on the number of hours you have to spend, your interests and energy, here are some ideas to consider:

If you have four hours or less, begin your tour at a visitor center where park staff will be happy to help you plan your visit. With limited time you may want to confine your sightseeing to the main park roads. Many pullouts with wayside exhibits dot these roads. There are 12 self-guiding nature trails. Consider experiencing at least one of these walks during a short park visit. On clear days the vista from Keys View extends beyond Salton Sea to Mexico and is well worth the additional 20-minute drive.

If you plan to spend an entire day there will be time to sample one or more hiking trails. A ranger program will add enjoyment and understanding to your visit. Or, October through May, call ahead and reserve a spot on the popular Keys Ranch guided walking tour. If solitude is what you are after, plan an all-day hike into the backcountry. If you would like to experience the desert from the seat of a mountain bike, the park offers an extensive network of dirt roads that make for less crowded and safer cycling than the paved main roads. Joshua Tree is a popular rock-climbing area. Many visitors enjoy just watching the climbers in action.

With more than one day in the park your options increase. There are nine campgrounds and backcountry camping is permitted. For "peak baggers," the park has ten mountains greater than 5,000 feet (1,524 m) in elevation. Or make it your goal to hike to all five of the park's fan palm oases. Other trails lead you to remnants of the gold mining era, a colorful part of the park's cultural history. Whatever you choose, your time will be rewarding. The desert holds much more than what is readily apparent to the casual observer.

A note of caution: The desert, fascinating as it is, can be life-threatening for those unfamiliar with its potential dangers. It is essential that you carry water with you--even if you are only driving through. Cars break down; keys get locked inside; accidents happen.

Hiking
It is easy to get disoriented in deserts: washes and animal trails crisscross the terrain obscuring trails, boulder piles are confusingly similar, and there are not many prominent features by which to guide yourself. Do get yourself a topographic map and compass and learn how to use them before you head out.

Know your limitations. You should not attempt to climb cliffs or steep terrain without adequate equipment, conditioning, and training. Accidents can be fatal.

Carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day just for drinking, two gallons in hot weather or if you are planning a strenuous trip. You will need additional water for cooking and hygiene.

And don't forget the other essentials: rain protection, a flashlight, a mirror and whistle, a first-aid kit, pencil and paper, a pocket knife, and extra food.

Bike riding in the park is restricted to roads open to vehicles. The park's Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan designates approximately 29 miles of trails for non-motorized bike use, however, the new trails cannot be used until Congress gives its approval. In the meanwhile, the park's backcountry roads offer opportunities to explore many areas.

Biking Safety

• Carry plenty of water, at least one gallon per person per day--two for extended or uphill trips.
  
• Wear a helmet. If you take a spill your brain will thank you.
  
• Ride with caution: Park roads are narrow with sandy shoulders, bumps, and potholes.
  
• Watch for RVs and trucks with extended side-view mirrors.
  
• Wear reflective clothing after dark.