Joshua Tree National Park Tours and Activities

Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park


Few places in the world combine high and low desert flora, fauna and geology like this breathtaking expanse of preserved wilderness.

As you drive through the arid landscape of Southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park announces itself as unmistakably as the limbed and spiky plant that gives it its name. The park features Joshua trees throughout the higher Mojave Desert and shrubbier creosote plants where it spans the lower Colorado Desert. The entire park’s rocky, hilly landscape makes it ideal for backpacking, climbing and wildlife spotting.

The best way to explore the rough terrain of Joshua Tree is hiking. Spend a day on the 7.2-mile (11.6-kilometre) Lost Palms Oasis Trail, where bighorn sheep roam. Marvel at the results of millions of years of mineral erosion in Old Woman Rock or Ryan Mountain. Explore Lost Horse Mine, one of the best-preserved gold and silver extraction sites in America. Even if you are a late riser, wake up before dawn at least once to see a Joshua Tree sunrise from a high peak.

Bring your rock-climbing gear and scale the face of an immense boulder. Track lizards, mule deer or 239 species of bird. Mountain bike or horseback ride on trails where wildflowers bloom in spring. On your recovery day, the Geology Motor Tour packs a number of Joshua Tree’s glorious views into a 2-hour drive. When the day is over, gaze up to see a perfectly starry sky.

When you first arrive, stop by the Joshua Tree Visitor Centre to acquire park passes and get familiar with the park’s Leave No Trace policy. Permits are available for campgrounds inside the park. Hotels, motels and short-stay rental houses surround the park’s entrances. Camping supplies and groceries can be purchased at stores outside the park and nearby cafés and diners serve meals.

From Los Angeles Joshua Tree National Park is a 140-mile (225.3-kilometre) drive east. From San Diego it is a 175-mile (281.6-kilometre) drive northeast. It’s worth the long drive and you may find yourself not wanting to leave this world-renowned desert oasis.

Plan a trip to see Joshua Tree National Park

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Budget Inn Hollywood
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Top Joshua Tree National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

WorldMark Indio

WorldMark Indio

3 out of 5
42-151 WorldMark Way, Indio, CA
WorldMark Indio
Signature Inn Indio I-10

Signature Inn Indio I-10

2.5 out of 5
84096 Indio Springs Dr, Indio, CA
Signature Inn Indio I-10
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Indio - Coachella Valley by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Indio - Coachella Valley by IHG

2.5 out of 5
84054 Indio Springs Drive, Indio, CA
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Indio - Coachella Valley by IHG
6 Mi to Empire Polo Club: Indio Home w/ Grill!

6 Mi to Empire Polo Club: Indio Home w/ Grill!

3 out of 5
Indio
6 Mi to Empire Polo Club: Indio Home w/ Grill!
Woodspring Suites Indio - Coachella Valley

Woodspring Suites Indio - Coachella Valley

2.5 out of 5
42525 Jackson St, Indio, CA
Woodspring Suites Indio - Coachella Valley
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

3.5 out of 5
84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Coachella, CA
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Indio Coachella Valley

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Indio Coachella Valley

4 out of 5
42655 Marmara St, Indio, CA
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Indio Coachella Valley
Turtle Back Mesa Bed & Breakfast

Turtle Back Mesa Bed & Breakfast

3 out of 5
28700 Hot Well Road, Desert Hot Springs, CA
Turtle Back Mesa Bed & Breakfast
El Rancho Dolores Motel at Joshua Tree National Park

El Rancho Dolores Motel at Joshua Tree National Park

2 out of 5
73352 29 Palms Highway, Twentynine Palms, CA
El Rancho Dolores Motel at Joshua Tree National Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park offers an array of exciting activities, including incredible hiking and exploring scenic nature trails. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and live music in nearby areas, making it a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and local culture. Whether you're trekking through stunning landscapes or unwinding with some tunes, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this unique desert environment.

Shopping

For local shopping, check out Robin Hood Archery, a unique store 32.2km away from Joshua Tree National Park. If you're up for a drive, Old Town La Quinta and Indio Towne Center, both 27 and 32.2km away respectively, offer diverse shops and vibrant atmospheres.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at the Golf Club at Terra Lago, just 30.6km from Joshua Tree National Park, surrounded by scenic vistas. Alternatively, the Indian Palms Country Club offers another excellent golfing experience 37.0km away, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.

Visit the Davis Sports Complex, located 33.8km from Joshua Tree National Park, where you can engage in various sports activities. This facility provides a vibrant atmosphere for fitness enthusiasts eager to stay active during their visit.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Arch Rock, a captivating hiking trail 16.1km from Joshua Tree National Park, offering breathtaking outdoor scenery. Explore Split Rock, located 30.6km away, where you can enjoy the rugged beauty of the outdoors. Don't miss the thrilling HITS International Horse Jumping Events, 35.4km from the park.

Nightlife

Experience the night sky at Sky's the Limit Observatory, just 25.7km from the park, perfect for family stargazing. For a cultural night out, catch a show at Theatre 29, located 32.2km away. Don’t miss the romantic atmosphere at Smith's Ranch Drive-In Theater, 35.4km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and adventure, with must-see attractions including stunning valleys, unique landmarks, and captivating scenery. Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities while exploring the iconic Joshua trees and the park's diverse landscapes. Whether you're seeking thrilling experiences or simply want to soak in the breathtaking views, there's no shortage of exciting things to do in and around Joshua Tree.

  • Hidden Valley: Located 6.4km from Joshua Tree National Park, Hidden Valley offers an exhilarating outdoor experience, perfect for rock climbing and hiking. The stunning rock formations and unique desert flora create an adventurous atmosphere that beckons explorers.
  • Cholla Cactus Garden: Just 4.8km away, this enchanting desert garden is filled with an array of Cholla cacti. Ideal for families, it provides a gentle stroll amidst striking landscapes, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the cacti glow.
  • Joshua Tree National Park North Entrance: Situated 25.7km from the park's heart, this entrance showcases incredible scenery and vast landscapes, inviting visitors to embark on thrilling adventures, from hiking to stargazing under the clear desert skies.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Joshua Tree National Park

To save on your trip to Joshua Tree National Park, consider visiting between July and September for lower accommodation prices, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays as they tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly, eco-certified options, and sort by price for the best deals. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for added savings. Additionally, explore free activities in the park, such as hiking and stargazing, to maximise your experience without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Joshua Tree National Park are July to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Joshua Tree National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Joshua Tree National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options currently available. To find the best bargains, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Joshua Tree National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.