Here’s everything you gotta know before visiting Joshua Tree National Park.
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The area that is now Joshua Tree National Park wasnt always a desert.
And with this many people making their way to the California desert, its important to tread carefully.
Golden Hour near Joshua Tree National Park’s Barker Dam.Credit:iStockphoto/Getty Images
Every effort we make to respect it helps preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
From the airport, youll need to rent a car to reach the park.
Theres no such thing as being over-prepared, says Sanchez.
A hiker on Ryan Mountain Trail.Kelly vanDellen/iStockphoto/Getty Images
If you have an emergency beacon like a Garmin inReach, bring it along.
Visitors often underestimate how easy it is to get lost or injured when venturing off-trail.
Joshua Tree is home to two major desert ecosystems: the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert.
Two desert bighorn sheep, one ram and one ewe, in Joshua Tree National Park.iStockphoto/Getty Images
For starters, go in with a leave no trace mindset.
Ravens, opportunistic feeders, are drawn to human food and litter.
Pets must also be leashed while in the park, and they are not allowed on trails.
A road through Joshua Tree National Park.iStockphoto/Getty Images
And if youre tempted to take a memento from the park?
Take photos for memories, not rocks, says Sanchez.
Rocks also contribute to soil stability and protect delicate ecosystems.
The desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park under a starry night sky.Getty Images
Taking even a single rock can have a ripple effect on the fragile desert balance.
Watch the ridges and rocky hillsides for bighorn sheep.
They are often spotted at Barker Dam in the warmer months.
A family talks with a Joshua Tree National Park staffer after a high summer hike on the Hidden Valley trail.Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
The same goes for the tortoises; in fact, handling them is illegal under the Endangered Species Act.
The only exception is for instances where the tortoise may be at risk of getting hit by a car.
Add water to help the tortoise rehydrate.
Airstreams at AutoCamp.Yasara Gunawardena/Travel + Leisure
Once it has finished drinking, pack out the bag, she explains.
As youre hiking, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and cacti.
Rattlesnakes dont hear as we do but are sensitive to vibrations, taste, and smell.
Lunch at La Copine, featuring a gem wedge salad, artichoke toast, rockfish cake, and haricots verts with herbs.Yasara Gunawardena/Travel + Leisure
So dust everything off and double-check the bottoms of your shoes before calling it a day.
And before you go, be sure to check thenational park’s websitefor any trail closures or alerts.
Spring and fall have always been the best times to enjoy perfect weather in the desert.
Late February and late April are probably your best bet, he adds.
No matter when you choose to visit, youll want to check the weather ahead of arrival.
I always advise packing windbreakers, layers, and even a rain jacket to provide warmth against the wind.
Best Things to Do
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Try rock climbing.
JTNP is a really unique environment full of otherworldly rock formations that have always enticed climbers, says Pettit.
If you dont plan on hiring a climbing guide, visit one of the four parkvisitor centersfor additional information.
Go stargazing.
One of the perks of the park being open 24 hours a day?
Attend a ranger program or schedule a guided tour.
Hike through the desert.
Barker Dam
For a quick and relatively easy hike, considerBarker Dam.
A popular spot, this area offers a mix of history and beauty.
Cottonwood Spring
Sanchez describesCottonwood Springas a hike that feels like walking through a miniature Grand Canyon.
Glamping
Both Sanchez and Pettit recommendAutoCampfor a classic glamping experience.
Plus, each Airstream is outfitted with a kitchenette, luxury bath products, and a flat-screen TV.
Campgrounds
There are500 campsiteswithin Joshua Tree National Park, and most of them are available by reservation.
Her favorite spots includeRyan CampgroundandHidden Valley.
Places to Eat
La Copine
Pettit callsLa Copinethe best restaurant in the area.
Crossroads Cafe
Crossroads Cafeis my favorite low-key spot to get a meal in town, says Pettit.
Its a bit of a drive, but absolutely worth it; their cocktails are fantastic.
If youre traveling in a small group, share the nachos, asada fries, and queso fundido.
