Joshua Tree Guide
Places to eat, hike, & explore
Curated by Maria Halkiadakis for Desert Elysium guests
View full list on Google MapsJoshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a high desert wonderland of granite boulders, yucca forests, and wide-open skies. See packing suggestions at the end of this guide.
Open park in Google Maps
Joshua Tree Visitor Center
Located in the town of Joshua Tree. Stop here before heading into the park to speak with rangers about your visit. Find maps, books, and other park merchandise.
Open in Google Maps
West Entrance (Joshua Tree)
The closest entrance to the town of Joshua Tree. Can get backed up on weekends and holidays — consider using the Twentynine Palms entrance during peak hours.
Open in Google Maps
Cap Rock
Flat 0.4-mile loop among monzogranite and junipers at the Keys View junction; super quick leg-stretch.
Open in Google Maps
Ryan Mountain Trailhead
Steady 3-mile out-and-back to one of the best summit views; go early or late for cooler temps.
Open in Google Maps
Hall of Horrors Area
Short, fun wandering among slot-like boulders; quick scramble and photo stop.
Open in Google Maps
Barker Dam
Easy loop to a historic dam and petroglyphs; nearby Wall Street Mill adds a longer mining-history walk.
Open in Google Maps
Keys View
Drive-up panorama of Coachella Valley, Salton Sea, and San Jacinto/San Gorgonio; best at a clear sunset.
Open in Google Maps
Lost Horse Mine
Rolling loop to one of the park’s most intact stamp mills; history plus wide desert views.
Open in Google Maps
Jumbo Rocks
Massive boulder fields around the campground; great roam-around stop for all ages.
Open in Google Maps
Skull Rock
Roadside formation directly across from Jumbo Rocks Campground; short nature trail continues behind it.
Open in Google Maps
Split Rock Loop Trail
Quieter loop with varied rock gardens and viewpoints; nice alternative when Hidden Valley is crowded.
Open in Google Maps
Arch Rock
Short, flat walk to Arch Rock from Twin Tanks lot; fun boulder playground for sunset light.
Open in Google Maps
Cholla Cactus Garden
Dense cholla stand with a flat loop; magical in low light. Watch your step!
Open in Google Maps
Ocotillo Patch
Quick roadside stop; best after rain/spring when ocotillo leaf out and bloom (March–May), otherwise a fast photo.
Open in Google Maps
Cottonwood Spring
Shady fan-palm oasis a short walk from parking; trailhead for Lost Palms Oasis and Mastodon Peak.
Open in Google Maps
Cottonwood Visitor Center
South-end visitor center near the Cottonwood entrance — rangers, maps, restrooms, and water before deeper park hikes.
Open in Google Maps
North Entrance Station
Enter from Twentynine Palms to avoid long waits during peak hours, or use this entrance to start or complete your loop through the park.
Open in Google Maps
Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center (Twentynine Palms)
Stop by the visitor center in Twentynine Palms to talk with rangers, see exhibits, or grab maps and water before heading in.
Open in Google MapsSand to Snow National Monument
A desert-to-mountain corridor linking Joshua Tree’s high desert to the San Gorgonio Wilderness; great for cooler hikes, riparian oases, and big views. Free to visit.
Whitewater Preserve
Year-round creek, picnic spots, and short trails like Canyon View Loop; popular family stop and a scenic connector to the Pacific Crest Trail. Check current status — may be temporarily closed.
Open in Google Maps
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
Boardwalks and easy trails through a lush marsh oasis; great birding, shade, and quick family-friendly loops.
Open in Google Maps
Mission Creek Preserve
Easy walking along a desert stream with cottonwoods and the historic Stone House; gentle grades and wide canyon views, good wildlife spotting.
Open in Google MapsThings to do around town
Markets, art, stargazing, and desert landmarks beyond the national park.
Joshua Tree Certified Farmers' Market
Saturdays 8:00 am–1:00 pm year round in downtown Joshua Tree. Expect local produce, baked goods, flowers, and artisan items. Arrive before 10:00 am for easier parking.
Open in Google Maps
World Famous Crochet Museum
Tiny, delightfully quirky photo op filled with crocheted critters. Quick stop with big smiles — great between coffee and shopping on the strip.
Open in Google Maps
Sky's The Limit Observatory and Nature Center
Volunteer stargazing nights near the north entrance on Saturdays closest to the new moon. Check the schedule and reserve. Dark skies here are fantastic.
Open in Google Maps
Gubler Orchids Inc.
A working desert greenhouse with rows of blooming orchids and specialty plants. Easy, mellow stop and a cool place to wander on hot days. Optional tours.
Open in Google Maps
The Integratron
A mid-century wooden dome famed for super-soothing sound baths in a one-of-a-kind acoustic space. Book well ahead — sessions fill fast. Giant Rock and Gubler Orchids are nearby in Landers.
Open in Google Maps
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
Ten acres of open-air assemblage art built from found materials. Free, dawn to dusk. Walk slowly and please do not climb the artworks.
Open in Google Maps
“Transmission” Sculpture by Daniel Popper
Striking desert art installation — a popular photo stop in the Joshua Tree area.
Open in Google Maps
Simi Dabah Sculpture Foundation
Open Saturdays 9:00 am–4:00 pm. Stroll more than 8 acres of welded steel sculptures made from reclaimed industrial metal. Free to browse; pieces available for purchase.
Open in Google Maps
Giant Rock
A massive freestanding boulder with lots of local lore. Access is via sandy dirt roads — go slow and avoid after big storms.
Open in Google Maps
Pioneertown Main Street
A historic film set you can stroll any time. Galleries and occasional weekend happenings. Fun photo stop before or after dinner nearby.
Open in Google MapsFood scene
Joshua Tree Saloon
Classic desert saloon vibe with burgers, salads, and a full bar. Good late option when other kitchens have closed. Family friendly. Patio seating with live music on weekends.
Open in Google Maps
Joshua Tree Coffee Company
Local roastery with strong espresso and cold brew to go. Quick stop on the way to the park. Grab beans for later and a mug to commemorate your trip!
Open in Google Maps
The Dez
Fresh bowls, salads, and sandwiches that travel well into the park. Good mix of vegan and gluten-free friendly options.
Open in Google Maps
The Big DEZ
All the same great options as The Dez’s original location, right next door with spacious indoor seating.
Open in Google Maps
Crossroads Cafe
Hearty, reliable breakfasts and sandwiches with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices. Go early for sit-down — it fills up 8–10 am. Great to-go burritos before the West Entrance.
Open in Google Maps
Sky High Pie
Solid pizzas with vegetarian and vegan options, plus ice cream. Order ahead for pickup.
Open in Google Maps
Pappy & Harriet's
A legendary Pioneertown spot blending live music with hearty barbecue. Check the show calendar; reservations for parties of 8+. Family friendly earlier in the evening.
Open in Google Maps
La Copine
Destination lunch spot with a seasonal menu that changes often. Expect a wait at peak times — check their socials for hours. Ideal after a morning loop in the park.
Open in Google Maps
The Yucca Tree Eatery
Local restaurant in Joshua Tree — check hours and menu before you go.
Open in Google Maps
Kitchen in the Desert
Caribbean-inspired plates and great cocktails in a colorful courtyard. Perfect for a relaxed dinner after a North Entrance day. Weekends are popular — plan ahead.
Open in Google Maps
grnd sqrl
Host favoriteComfort food done right with rotating craft beers. Easy post-park stop near the North Entrance. Portions are generous and the specials board is worth a look. Try the grilled cheese with chili!
Open in Google MapsGroceries & essentials
Stock up on the way to Desert Elysium or order delivery before you arrive.
Vons
Preferred grocery stop on the way to the house — shop in person, order pickup, or have groceries delivered to Desert Elysium.
Open in Google Maps
Walmart Supercenter
Another solid option for groceries and general supplies you may not find at a typical grocery store.
Open in Google Maps
Dollar General
The closest store of any kind to the house. Some grocery options but no fresh produce — more like a convenience store for everyday needs.
Open in Google Maps
Packing suggestions
Essentials for Joshua Tree National Park and the high desert:
- Water bottles — bring more than you think you need
- Sunscreen and sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
- Layers for temperature swings (hot days, cool nights)
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Flashlight or headlamp for stargazing
- Camera for desert landscapes
- Map or offline GPS (cell service is spotty in the park)
- Basic first aid kit
- Snacks and picnic food for hikes
- Reusable bag for trash — pack it out