Joshua Tree
Spanning across 794,000 acres, Joshua Tree National Park is home to some of the most stunning desert landscapes in the U.S. The park’s namesake Joshua trees, along with massive boulders, unique rock formations, and wildflower fields, create a surreal and beautiful environment. Visitors can hike through the diverse terrain, stargaze under some of the clearest night skies in the country, or explore the park’s rich cultural history and wildlife.
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Hidden Valley is one of Joshua Tree’s most popular and accessible spots, offering a stunning glimpse into the park’s diverse desert ecosystem. This easy 1-mile loop trail leads visitors through a rocky valley surrounded by towering boulders, Joshua trees, and vibrant wildflowers in the spring. Once used by cattle rustlers in the 19th century, Hidden Valley is a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, or simply taking in the desert beauty.
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For some of the best panoramic views in Joshua Tree, head to Keys View. Situated in the park’s upper elevations, this lookout point offers sweeping vistas of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and even the Salton Sea on a clear day. It’s a popular spot for watching desert sunsets or simply taking in the breathtaking landscape of the desert below.
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The Cholla Cactus Garden is a striking spot within Joshua Tree National Park, home to the distinctive Teddy Bear Cholla cacti. These unique, spiny plants glow in the soft desert light, especially at sunrise and sunset. Visitors can walk the short, self-guided trail through the garden to experience the cactus forest up close, but caution is advised—these cacti are notoriously prickly!