Spring is the perfect time to take a trip to Joshua Tree National Park. The temperatures are mild, the wildflowers are blooming and the weather is perfect not too hot or cold. The other seasons do provide their benefits as well, as spring can be the most crowded time to visit.
If you plan on visiting in the summer, the summer sun brings scorching temperatures during the day, but if you are a star gazer this time brings the best views of the night sky.
Fall is my favorite time to visit most any national park, the weather is still mild and usually brings less crowds.
Winter is another good option, but note Joshua tree does get cold and can snow. So come prepared with warm clothes.
So, what is there to see in Joshua Tree? Well let me tell you a whole lot! I have now been to this National Park 4 times and I never tire of the beauty here. I have put together a list of some of my favorite trails and things to see here in the park.
Cholla Cactus Garden:
- Distance: 0.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 9 ft.
- Route Type: Loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Guide: All Trails
This trail is on the top of my Joshua Tree list. You can start your day here watching the sunrise or end your day with the sunset. Make sure you hit this trail during either as the lighting on the teddy bear cactus trees makes them light up and glow!
Arch Rock and Heart Rock Trail:
- Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 88 ft.
- Route Type: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Guide: All Trails
Such a cute easy trail that you cant miss! I mean who can pass up a rock shaped like a heart?
Skull Rock:
- Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 180 ft.
- Route Type: Loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Guide: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/skull-rock-nature-trail
This trail in my opinion is the most popular area and honestly can get a bit crowded. You can opt to skip this trail and see this skull rock from the road.
Hall of Horrors:
- Distance: 0.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 26 ft.
- Route Type: Loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Guide: All Trails
Such a fun trail. Beware, if you are claustrophobic there are some narrow areas you must navigate through. This was by far my kids favorite hike in the park!
One of the best part of visiting Joshua Tree is all the unique stays around the area. Here is a list of my favorites:
- On our last stay in Joshua Tree we stayed at the Mars House . This house was so cozy, it featured a hot tub and cold pool along with a fire pit and beautiful outdoor space.
2. This place has me drooling and will be booking it soon!
3. The bathtub in this location looks soooo relaxing. Just imagine stargazing while soaking in a bubble bath.
4. If a hotel is more your vibe the nice thing about Joshua Tree is it is about a one hour drive from Palm Springs. Which is home to some pretty spectacular hotels. Like The Palm Springs Hotel or the colorful Paloma Resort.
I hope I have inspired you to visit Joshua Tree! My final thoughts on this California National Park is its truly a beautiful place and a great place to take a quick weekend getaway.
xoxo
Jacqueline
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