Location: Joshua Tree
Top Things to do in Joshua Tree
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What to do and see in Joshua Tree, California (CA): The Best Things to do
Joshua Tree National Park encompasses approximately 800,000 acres of desert land just 40 miles east of the California-Nevada border. The land has been inhabited by humans for an estimated 5,000 years, filling it with a rich history as well as numerous archeological sites and historical structures. Famous for its biodiversity, Joshua Tree is home to more than 800 different plant species. Visit between the months of March and June to view the impressive wildflowers in full bloom. Many of the local species close up during the cool nights and reopen with the sunshine in the morning, so don’t be fooled by the barren appearance at twilight. Hiking trails are by far the primary attraction at Joshua Tree. If you and your family have never been to Joshua Tree before, there are a few hikes you won’t want to miss. The first is the Lost Horse Mine, a historical mine located inside the National Park. You can explore the mine itself or stroll along the 6.5 mile loop surrounding the site, where you can see other mines as well as Malpais Hill. The second must-see attraction is Carey’s Castle, a series of abandoned caverns that were once inhabited by squatters who worked in the nearby mines.
Restaurants in Joshua Tree
1. Carey's Castle
2. Cliffhanger Guides
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 261 reviews
Custom Guided Joshua Tree National Park rock climbing advenutres! Cliffhanger Guides is Joshua Tree's boutique rock climbing guide service. We play with kids age 6 to 100. From beginner family play days to high end technical instruction and multi-pitch rock climbing advenutres. 5 hour 1/2 day, NO time limit full days, private instruction, and gourmet lunches....Company mission statement, "The more you give, the more you get". We look forward to showing you a amazing time in Joshua Tree National Park
3. Stone Adventures
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 122 reviews
Rock climbing adventures in Joshua Tree National Park. Fully customizable climbing trips with professionally certified rock climbing guides and wilderness first responders. Come experience the best of Joshua Tree National Park with the guides from Stone Adventures. All levels, from beginners, intermediate to expert, are welcome. All ages are welcome as well.
4. Mojave Guides
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 148 reviews
Mojave Guides offers fun and informative rock climbing and hiking experiences in Joshua Tree National Park for guests of all ages and skill levels. Options include full and half day private guiding as well as multi-day technical skills courses. All necessary climbing gear is provided. Worried that climbing might be too much excitement? Your guide knows all about the park, from desert flora and fauna, to scenic vistas, to historic landmarks and artifacts. You are sure to have a good time with Mojave Guides!
5. Joshua Tree National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 608 reviews
Reviewed By jamesmD3016MY - Boston, United States
Being NP aficionados, Joshua Tree has been on our list to visit for a few years. We were not disappointed. The scenery from the loop roads was diverse and wonderful. We took a couple of relatively easy trail hikes. My only quibble is on the Barker Dam and Hidden Valley Trails the descriptions/stories exceeded what we actually saw on the hikes.
6. Joshua Tree Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 335 reviews
Reviewed By DesertDan77 - Skokie, United States
This visitor center is a friendly, easy stop en route to the Joshua Tree National Park entrance. (West entrance, as I recall.) Maps of the park and plenty of cool souvenirs for yourself, as well as friends and family back home who couldn't make the trip! =)
7. Murtle the Turtle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By 370charh - Indio, United States
giant turtle before the turn to Joshua Tree National Park. Good place to take a picture with your kids and teach them about the turtles in the desert.
8. Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 124 reviews
Reviewed By KathrynBMorgan - San Diego, United States
What an unexpected treat on the way to Joshua Tree! The large scale assemblage pieces were fascinating, especially juxtaposed with the high desert and its light. Definitely worth the visit. Just wish there was more explanation of each piece and what the artist was saying in it.
9. Joshua Tree Art Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 6 reviews
Featured work by local artists & guest artists. Gallery monthly openings are the 2nd Saturday of every month. Painting, sculpture, & photography
10. World Famous Crochet Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 39 reviews
Reviewed By june_b0t - Los Angeles, United States
Nice Art Space Decided to make this a stop on my way to Joshua Tree National Park. Parking was easy. There are various things to see besides the Crotchet Museum. Clothing/Jewelry/Art is for sale, Various Art Exhibits, & of course Great Photo Opportunities throughout the location. Look Around, so many things to see. Despite it being a relatively small location, it’s a great location to really take in and see the time and effort it took to bring it to reality. Clean Restrooms are also on the premises. There is also plenty places to eat and grab some coffee before or after your visit here. If you are done early, I would also ck out “Pioneer Town” or “Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Musuem” – Google Them J Enjoy
