Joshua Tree National Park - One Day Trip

[JudyJB]

I have a friend visiting from NY City, and we are staying at Borrego Springs. I want to drive tomorrow to Joshua Tree National Park for a one day trip--will return to Borrego in late afternoon.

I have been to Joshua several times, but it has been quite a few years. It would take us 1.5 hours to drive to the south visitor center at Cottonwood, but I think the northwestern part of the national park is more scenic, so I am considering driving directly to Twenty-Nine Palms, which is at least a two-hour drive, and drive into the park for just maybe a 50 mile loop. Friend wants also to stop at place to buy a couple of souvenirs, but nothing in the park, etc. Want to get back to Borrego before dark so not much time. Leaving at 7:30 am.

Am I correct that the northwest part of this national park is the most scenic? Any suggestions for how we can spend maybe two hours tops in the park?

Thanks

 

[jackiemac]

Hi Judy. You are correct. The north side is much prettier. From memory there are several spots with parking and/or picnic areas. There are mostly around the trees or beautiful rocks. Barker Dam hike is supposed to be nice although we haven't done it.

Keys View is nice but I'm not sure about that road in an RV.

The cholla garden is also nice but much further out than you probably want to go.

Also I'm not sure how badly affected the park will be by the current wildfire in CA. Check for air quality online.

I've seen several photos from the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge which looks lovely should you be interested in birds.

I'm sure you are also aware of the metal sculptures in Borrego Springs at Galeta Meadows but I'm mentioning it just in case. Carlees was a great spot for food when we've visited.

Have fun.

 

[jackiemac]

A friend has told me he prefers the Mojave National Preserve to Joshua as the trees are nicer. It's maybe a place for you on your way to Vegas...

 

[DonTom]

A friend has told me he prefers the Mojave National Preserve to Joshua as the trees are nicer. It's maybe a place for you on your way to Vegas...

What I mainly remember about JTP are the size of the rocks and the Chuckwalla Lizards on many of them during my hike to Lost Palm Oasis:



IMO, you don't see much of JTP without hiking a ways.

-Don- Auburn, CA

 

[DonTom]

Here is your guide to JTP, from Ranger John.

-Don- Auburn, CA