ONE DAY IN JOSHUA TREE: MAP AND ITINERARY DETAILS

Using This Map: To access the layers (driving routes and places to go), click the tab located in the upper left corner of the map. To reveal or conceal layers, click the checkboxes. You may learn more about each point of interest on the map by clicking on the icons.  This map will be added to your Google Maps account if you click the star next to the map’s title. Open Google Maps on your computer or phone, select “Your Places” from the menu, then click Maps. This map will appear on your list.

MORNING:

 

  • Keys View (around 1-2 hours).  Get up early and make your way to Keys View to watch a breathtaking sunrise. The San Andreas Fault, the Coachella Valley, and the Salton Sea are all visible from this vantage point.

LATE MORNING:

 

  • Hidden Valley (Approx. 1-2 hours).  Hike through the Hidden Valley. This famous location highlights the park’s distinctive rock formations and Joshua Trees.

LUNCH: Picnic or Visit Joshua Tree Village (Approx. 1 hour).  Take a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the park’s designated picnic spots. As an alternative, you can search Joshua Tree Village for nearby restaurants.

AFTERNOON:

 

  • Barker Dam Trail  (Approx. 1.5 hours).  Take a hike on the Barker Dam Loop Trail. The trail gives YOU chances to see wildlife and leads to a historic water reservoir marked with petroglyphs.
  • Skull Rock (Approx. 1.5 hours).  Stop by Skull Rock, a distinctive rock formation easily accessible from the main road.

LATE AFTERNOON:

 

  • Cholla Cactus Garden (Approx. 1 hour). 

    Take a brief stroll through a densely populated area of cholla cacti by driving to the cholla cactus garden. This is a very lovely place in the golden hour of sunset.

SUNSET:

  • Arch Rock (Approx. 1 hour).  For a quick hike to see the sunset, proceed to Arch Rock. The stunning natural arch creation is complemented by fantastic photo opportunities provided by the shifting hues of the sky.

NIGHT:

  • Stargazing  (Optional).  Joshua Tree National Park has been recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, making it a great place to go stargazing. Enjoy the night sky by finding a dark area away from artificial lights.