The Park

With a rich history, once serving as a hideout for cattle rustlers in the 1800s, who used the surrounding rock formations to conceal stolen cattle. Today, it’s a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and rock climbing, with a scenic 1-mile loop trail that offers beautiful views of the desert and its unique rock formations. Its combination of history and natural beauty makes it a must-see in the park.

Arch Rock is one of the most iconic natural features in Joshua Tree National Park. Formed over thousands of years by wind and erosion, this stunning rock arch stands out against the desert landscape. It’s a short, easy hike from the White Tank Campground, making it a great spot for photos and a peaceful desert experience. The arch itself is especially striking at sunrise or sunset, when the light creates dramatic shadows and highlights.

White Tank is a favorite spot for bouldering enthusiasts in Joshua Tree. Known for its diverse and challenging rock formations, the area offers a range of routes for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, the quiet, secluded campground provides easy access to some of the park’s best bouldering spots. It’s a great place to climb by day and unwind under the stars at night.

Keys View offers some of the best panoramic views in Joshua Tree National Park. From this vantage point, you can see the Coachella Valley, the Salton Sea, and on clear days, even Mexico. It's an easy drive up to the viewpoint, making it a great stop for breathtaking desert vistas. The sunset here is particularly stunning, casting warm colors over the valley below.

Barker Dam is a historic site in Joshua Tree, built by early cattle ranchers in the 1900s to store water. Today, it’s a peaceful spot for a short hike, where you can explore the dam and enjoy views of the surrounding desert. The area is also a great place for birdwatching, with plenty of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, often spotted nearby. It’s a quiet, scenic stop with a touch of history.

The Cholla Cactus Garden is a striking area filled with the distinctive teddy bear cholla cacti. These spiky plants glow in the early morning or late afternoon light, creating a surreal desert landscape. A short, easy loop trail takes you through the garden, offering a close-up view of the cacti and the surrounding desert scenery. It’s a great spot for photos and a peaceful walk. Just don’t try to hug the super cute cactus lol

Ryan Mountain offers one of the best hikes in Joshua Tree for those seeking a challenge. The 3-mile round-trip trail takes you to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the park’s unique landscape. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic vistas of the desert, valleys, and rock formations make it well worth the effort. Perfect for hikers looking to take in the park from a higher perspective.

Jumbo Rocks is one of the most iconic areas in Joshua Tree, known for its enormous, stacked boulders and incredible rock formations. It's perfect for hiking, climbing, or just exploring the maze of rocks. The area offers great opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the rocks take on beautiful hues. There’s also a campground here, making it a great spot to stay and immerse yourself in the desert landscape.