An informative and engaging precursor to the eponymous park, the Joshua Tree Visitor Center offers the perfect way to begin your adventure. Get a free map to the park here, learn more about the best trails to take, check out the unique exhibits on display or visit the shop on-site for a few collectibles. During busier months at the park (October-May), it is advisable to pick up the park pass here in order to avoid the long queues at the ranger station.
A beautiful hunk of dull granite arches over boulders and rocks in the Joshua Tree park landscape, forming one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park. The trail leading up to the Arch Rock is scenic and fairly easy even for novice hikers. Once you reach the arch, have fun exploring the rocky landscape and the park's unusual yet stellar terrain.
Located in Joshua Tree National Park, the Oasis of Mara is one of the most visited sites in the park, and also one of its most significant. Historically, the area was settled by the Serrano, Chemehuevi and Cahuilla natives. According to legend, the Serrano named this oasis 'Mara', which translates roughly into 'a place of little springs and much grass'. Much of the flora and vegetation that one sees today can be traced back to the effort of the natives, who planted nearly 29 palm trees in this oasis. They serve today as an important habitat for a range of desert fauna.
Defined by groves of palm trees which characterize the landscape of the region, Indio Hills Palms is a parkland which delights visitors with its scenic surrounds. Trails winding through its expanse make for exhilarating hiking excursions and afford a closer look at the swaying groves which are found here. Desert ponds are among the draws of this area which is home to the Pushawalla and Horseshoe palms among others.
Often operating as a watering hole and a place of gathering for desert fauna such as the bighorn sheep, the Barker Dam makes for an interesting stop within the Joshua Tree National Park. The dam, surrounded by boulders, was originally built by cattlemen in the 19th Century, and is wedged between the Wonderland of Rocks and Queen Valley. It can be easily accessed by visitors via a well-marked trail.
Notable for its unique array of geological formations and vast grove of Joshua trees, the Lost Horse Valley is often regarded as the main feature of the park. Its iconic status is further affirmed by the vast network of hiking trails that originate here. The valley is also home to its namesake Lost Horse Mine, a historic unit from the 19th Century that once produced over 10,000 ounces of gold and silver.
One of the places in the Joshua Tree National Park that is home to a flourishing lichen population, the Ryan Mountain towers at a height of 5,456-feet (1,663 meters). An iconic natural landmark within the park, the mountain can be accessed through an arduous trail measuring nearly 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometres). The hard trek is worth it, as the mountain rewards hikers with spectacular views from its pinnacle. You will be able to take in sweeping views of Lost Horse Valley, Pinto Basin, and Queen Valley, among others.
A beautiful hunk of dull granite arches over boulders and rocks in the Joshua Tree park landscape, forming one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park. The trail leading up to the Arch Rock is scenic and fairly easy even for novice hikers. Once you reach the arch, have fun exploring the rocky landscape and the park's unusual yet stellar terrain.
Home to one of the most well-conserved historic mills in the Joshua Tree National Park, the Lost Horse Mine offers a nostalgic glimpse into the area's mining history. This 19th-century mine is one of the few remaining landmarks from the approximately 300 mines that were developed during the time, and is especially notable for its production of gold and silver. It is believed that the mine produced over 10,000 ounces of gold and silver at its zenith. The mine can be reached through a 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) loop trail.
Ruth Hardy Park is one of the charming city parks in Palm Springs covering around 22 acres (8.06 hectares) of lush green land. The park features 3 volleyball courts, 8 table tennis courts, a basketball court, a children's play area and numerous picnic spots, dotting the green spaces. This park is a scenic getaway from the monotonous city life, making it one of the best parks, in the city. With so much to do, this picturesque retreat is often throbbing with enthusiastic children, making this place a chirpy yet calming escape.
Located within close proximity to Palm Springs, Coachella Valley Preserve is a natural gem sprawling over 1000 acres (404 hectares). The preserve's visitor center, called the 'Palm House', offers an intriguing exhibition of photographs and curated items. From there on, a trail to McCallum Oasis reveals a wealth of natural wonders like a serene pond and verdant landscape that beautifully contrasts the deserted surroundings. Further is the Moon Country that attracts a large array of exotic flora and fauna. The preserve is one of the few habitats in the world that harbor the fringe-toed lizard, as well as some rare birds, shrubs and vegetation. The hike is family-friendly and a conquerable feat for amateurs as well. The preserve's viewpoint provides great vistas of Joshua Tree National Park, Little San Bernardino Mountains, and the San Gorgonio Peak. Accentuated by the rolling Indio Hills, the preserve harbors various significant sites such as the Thousand Palm Oasis as well as the Paul Wilhelm Grove.