The top things to do on a memorable weekend in Joshua Tree
Many tourists might have jotted down Yosemite and Kings Canyon on their Californian bucket list. But north of Palm Springs and east of San Bernardino, another natural gem is just as spectacular. Dotted with boulders dating back billions of years and unique yuccas, Joshua Tree is one of the most stunning national parks in Cali.
And with the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meeting to create an otherworldly landscape, the spot is a dream come true for hikers, photographers, and even stargazers. So, whether you want to reconnect with nature or simply marvel at a Californian wonder, here are the best places to discover in and around Joshua Tree National Park.
Explore the park
Joshua Tree’s primary attraction is, suffice to say, the park itself. And there are countless exciting activities to fill in the day.
Climb rocks
Joshua Tree is California’s most popular rock-climbing destination for a reason. With its rugged mountains and rocky formations, the park is a Mecca for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Trad climbing steals the show, but climbing enthusiasts can also encounter bouldering problems and sport climbing routes. First-timers might head to spots like Intersection Rock and Echo Cove to get to an unforgettable start, while advanced climbers have plenty of challenging options from Saddle Rock to Big Moe.
Hike among natural wonders
Hiking is the best way to immerse in Joshua Tree’s untouched beauty. Walkers can soak up the scenery on easy trails, some of which are wheelchair accessible. The Arch Rock Trail is a crowd’s favorite, for it takes hikers to the picturesque giant boulders of Arch Rock, located halfway along a 2-mile loop.
The 30-minute-long walk around the Cholla Cactus Garden is another popular pick for biologists and plant lovers. As for advanced hikers, several out-and-back trails take them to secluded canyons and scenic summits. Beware, though, as the most demanding trails are a no-go in summer.
Gaze at the stars
Joshua Tree is arguably one of the world’s top stargazing spots. The night skies are particularly dark thanks to the park’s remoteness. To admire the Milky Way, visitors only need to pack a tent and settle at one of the park’s nine campgrounds, with Cotton Campground enjoying the darkest skies. Wilderness backpacking is another sure way to escape any polluting light sources, provided visitors comply with camping regulations.
Go beyond Joshua Tree
Nature draws in most of the crowds. But Joshua Tree’s surroundings also boast a cultural side and even some fun spots for an entertaining end to an intense weekend.
Visit glamorous Palm Springs
Palm Springs has been a popular retreat for A-listers since the 1930s. Tourists now come by to enjoy the city’s entertainment venues, ranging from museums to botanical gardens. This resort city is a magnet for festival-goers too, from LGBT events to film festivals. Of course, the nearby valley of Coachella draws in herds of music fans in April. And Palm Springs also caters to hot springs lovers and even casino players with top-notch gambling facilities.
But if you’re traveling from a distance and can’t fit all the Palm Springs landmarks in your schedule, online casinos are a convenient alternative. Whether you live in the U.S. or as far as Asia or New Zealand, you can take advantage of casino bonuses to try your luck. Experts have compared every platform to find the most rewarding bonuses. Dozens of bonuses include casino reload and welcome offers, but also free spins, high roller promotions, and more. And users can claim bonuses on mobile to take a gamble anyplace and anytime.
Rewind the clock in Pioneertown
The Old West has long fascinated Hollywood. So it was that in 1946, investors created a living, breathing film set. Led by actors Gene Autry, Dick Curtis, and Roy Rogers, the group put together an 1880s-themed town comprising everything from frontier stables to jails and saloons.
Pioneertown would then serve as the filming location of over 50 Western movies and TV shows in the 1940s and 50s. The town has lost some of its Hollywood glitz since then. Yet, artists and entrepreneurs have given it new life in recent years. So, visitors can stop for some ribs or even spend the night at a rustic motel.