Barker Dam Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua trees may be the dominate scenery, but others can be found; California juniper and scrub oak can be seen, but there growth has diminished due to ecological changes. Where years ago the climate supported their existence. On the other side is the Colorado Desert area at the eastern edge of the park. The elevation here is below 3,000 feet creating an ecology supportive of Creosote bush scrub, desert Saltbush, and other mixed scrub like Yucca and Cholla cactus. These cacti grow so abundantly in the area that it resembles a natural garden. At the southeastern side of the park is the lower Coachella Valley that is home to sandy soil grasslands and beautiful desert dunes. The area is well known for hosting the Coachella Music Festival every summer. Over 250 species of bird can be seen in the park. Smith Water Canyon is a popular lookout, while Queen Valley and Lost Horse Valley also offer good birding views, but with a different range of species stemming from the lack of water in the area. Barker Dam is only a short hike from a parking area near Hidden Valley and gives a great glimpse of the wildlife. Desert Bighorn Sheep often drink from the dam here. The park does offer some tours, but call ahead for details. Care should be exercised when visiting the area, as it is home to scorpions, diamondbacks, cougars, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes. You can also spot crows, owls, and kangaroo rats. Hiking trails are everywhere and most can be accessed from the campgrounds. The Hidden Valley trail is a great starter and is one mile long, giving you a chance to soak up the scenery without venturing too far into the desert. The California Riding and Hiking Trail winds through 35 miles of ground on the western side of the park, with Keys View being a stopping point and lookout. It gives a spectacular view of the Coachella Valley and Salton Sea.

Jumbo Rocks Joshua Tree National Park

Jumbo Rocks Joshua Tree National Park

Indian Cove is another nature walk, and the Cholla Cactus Garden trail is good if that’s your interest. If you want a longer trail, try the Lost Horse Mine, Lost Palms Oasis, or Forty-nine Palms Oasis trails. Bikes are not allowed, but horses are. If you have a 4X4 truck a self-guided tour is available, called the Geology Motor Tour, with sixteen different stops highlighting the area. Rock climbers love Joshua tree, and there are thousands of climbing routes at every level of difficulty. The routes are usually short, and easy to access, so it’s very possible to complete several climbs in a day. Camping opportunities are everywhere in Joshua tree, and there are nine campgrounds to choose from in all. Be careful though and be sure to bring your own supply of water; it is a precious commodity in this desert environment and only two of the sites have water provisions-- Black Rock Canyon and Cottonwood. A nightly fee is charged for each camping spot. Outdoorsmen that are more adventurous may want to try sleeping in the backcountry; it is permitted with some regulations that you should check ahead for. If you are planning a shorter day trip, still bring plenty of water and enough snacks to maintain your energy throughout the day. Lodging and food is available in nearby cities like Coachella and Palm Springs. Joshua Tree National Park is located two hours from Orange County or Los Angeles, and a little under three hours from The San Fernando Valley.

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