Visiting the Desert in the Spring

Joshua Tree in Bloom

With comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers, Spring is the perfect time to visit Joshua Tree.

What to bring: Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for hiking and plenty of sunscreen. A sun hat is also super helpful. And don't forget your water bottle!

When going to the National Park: It's always best to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds. Ideally you'll head in just before sunrise and then you can catch an amazing view of the sun coming up. But the park is open 24 hrs per day, so you can go in at anytime. Catching the sunset is amazing and also, stargazing in the park at night.

Globe Mallow

Some great hikes:

Hidden Valley

Barker Dam

Split Rock Loop

North View

If you're looking for dog-friendly hiking, it's better to go to Pioneertown Mountains Preserve, instead of the National Park.

Guided Hike Options: Wandering Mojave

Joshua Tree Adventures

Another must-see in the park is the Cholla Cactus Garden, where you can admire the vibrantly colored cacti and unique desert flora. Be sure to stay on the pathways!

I always recommend a stop at the Visitor Center before going into the Park, for the latest conditions, recommendations, activities, etc. There is a Visitor Center at both the West and the North entrances.

Desert Bluebell

Pro tip: The West Entrance in Joshua Tree is usually more crowded, so it can be good to start at the North Entrance in 29 Palms.

For something a little more laid back, a drive through the park is always awesome. You can start at either the West Entrance in Joshua Tree and then come out in 29 Palms at the North Entrance or you can start at the North Entrance and come out the West Entrance. There are so many great areas to pull over and explore.

Where to eat in the area: ​

• La Copine

• Crossroads Cafe

• Country Kitchen

• Grnd Sqrl

• Kitchen in the Desert

• Pappy and Harriet’s

• Campbell Hill Bakery

• The Dez

• Road Runner Grab and Go

• Pie for the People

• Snakebite Roadhouse

• The Tiny Pony

• The Copper Room

• Sky High Pie

• Joshua Tree Saloon

• Red Dog Saloon

Springtime Happenings in Our Area:

• Joshua Tree Music Festival in May - https://joshuatreemusicfestival.com/

• Music at Pappy and Harriet's - https://pappyandharriets.com/

• Joshua Tree Art Walk - https://www.facebook.com/JoshuaTree2ndSaturdays

• Coachella - https://www.coachella.com/

• Stagecoach - https://www.stagecoachfestival.com/

• Joshua Tree Farmer's Market - http://joshuatreefarmersmarket.com/

• Brunch at Kitchen in the Desert - https://www.kitd29.com/

Stargazing Tours:

• Sky Watcher Tours

• 29 Palms Astronomy

• Stargazing Joshua Tree

Fun and Interesting:

• Cliffhanger Guides

• Integratron

• Hi-Desert Nature Museum

• World Famous Crochet Museum

• High Desert Ebikes

• The Secret Tours

Where to Stay: Any of our homes are a great option and whether you're looking for something with a pool, or that's famility friendly, you can search different options on our site.