Joshua Tree National Park: Tips for First-Time Visitors
Joshua Tree Nationwide Park could possibly be a single of the most starkly gorgeous sites I’ve ever frequented. Despite dwelling in Southern California my overall existence, it was only very last year—when artist Ellie Pritts’ surreal color-saturated images of the place initially caught my attention—that I actually obtained intrigued in discovering the park. Whilst my initially journey was a little bit of a catastrophe, this desert playground is certainly worth a take a look at. The trick is to arrive ready.
Joshua Tree Mythology: Legendary Trees, Odd Rock Formations, and A lot more
Joshua Tree didn’t get its countrywide park standing until 1994, but it immediately turned one of the most common sites in the NPS system, many thanks in aspect to its legendary yucca vegetation that look like Dr. Suess drawings (yup, all those would be the Joshua trees). All sorts of individuals have been drawn to its otherworldly landscapes over the years. The Eagles, U2, and even aliens (or so the rumors go), have taken inspiration from Joshua Tree—and Gram Parsons cherished it so significantly his ashes had been scattered on the grounds.
Trees apart, Joshua Tree’s popularity also stems from its lots of opportunities for recreation. It’s like a Swiss military knife of vacation ordeals. On any presented working day, you’re possible to place photographers, artists, rock climbers, and households all sharing 1 of the scenic change-offs. (Just glance for the signals saying “Exhibit,” which pop up usually as you push as a result of the park.) Found 130 miles from Los Angeles and 187 miles from Las Vegas, the park is a doable weekend journey for many—and you won’t have to get time off in purchase to have a thing to brag about on Monday early morning.
Be Geared up for Wilderness
But the very first time I visited, I paid dearly for wondering that the park’s relative accessibility intended I could roll in unprepared. In contrast to NPS web sites like Yosemite or Muir Woods, Joshua Tree experienced no snack bar wherever I could seize a bite, indicating I experienced to make do with the mini cereal containers, stale popcorn, and half-vacant bottle of heat h2o I had stashed in my trunk. But I pushed on, and irrespective of arriving immediately after midday, nonetheless managed to have a wonderful time hiking and climbing close to a small sliver of the park right before sunset.
The next morning, I regretted my determination when, many thanks to the deficiency of food items, drinking water, and prevalent sense the working day prior to, altitude sickness kicked in. It was a excellent reminder that like any wilderness journey, you want to be geared up ahead of you head into Joshua Tree.
The good information: It only can take a very little bit of prep to have an satisfying take a look at. Down below, I have compiled a couple of key ideas for safely and securely finding the most out of your time in this magical national park.
Joshua Tree Nationwide Park: Vital Ideas for Your To start with Check out
For obtain to exclusive gear movies, movie star interviews, and much more, subscribe on YouTube!