Joshua Tree Nationwide Park could be one of the crucial starkly beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Regardless of residing in Southern California my whole life, it was solely final yr—when artist Ellie Pritts’ surreal color-saturated pictures of the world first caught my consideration—that I actually bought taken with exploring the park. Though my first journey was a little bit of a catastrophe, this desert playground is unquestionably price a go to. The trick is to reach ready.
Joshua Tree Mythology: Iconic Timber, Unusual Rock Formations, and Extra
Joshua Tree didn’t obtain its nationwide park standing till 1994, however it shortly turned one of the crucial standard websites within the NPS system, thanks partly to its iconic yucca vegetation that appear like Dr. Suess drawings (yup, these could be the Joshua bushes). All types of individuals have been drawn to its otherworldly landscapes through the years. The Eagles, U2, and even aliens (or so the rumors go), have taken inspiration from Joshua Tree—and Gram Parsons beloved it a lot his ashes had been scattered on the grounds.
Timber apart, Joshua Tree’s reputation additionally stems from its many alternatives for recreation. It’s like a Swiss military knife of journey experiences. On any given day, you’re more likely to spot photographers, artists, rock climbers, and households all sharing one of many scenic turn-offs. (Simply search for the indicators saying “Exhibit,” which pop up ceaselessly as you drive by means of the park.) Positioned 130 miles from Los Angeles and 187 miles from Las Vegas, the park is a doable weekend journey for a lot of—and also you gained’t need to take day off with a view to have one thing to brag about on Monday morning.
Be Ready for Wilderness
However the first time I visited, I paid dearly for considering that the park’s relative accessibility meant I might roll in unprepared. In contrast to NPS websites like Yosemite or Muir Woods, Joshua Tree had no snack bar the place I might seize a chunk, which means I needed to make do with the mini cereal containers, stale popcorn, and half-empty bottle of heat water I had stashed in my trunk. However I pushed on, and regardless of arriving after noon, nonetheless managed to have a good time mountaineering and climbing round a small sliver of the park earlier than sundown.
The subsequent morning, I regretted my determination when, because of the shortage of meals, water, and customary sense the day earlier than, altitude illness kicked in. It was a very good reminder that like any wilderness adventure, that you must be ready earlier than you head into Joshua Tree.
The excellent news: It solely takes a bit of little bit of prep to have an fulfilling go to. Beneath, I’ve compiled a number of key options for safely getting probably the most out of your time on this magical nationwide park.
Joshua Tree Nationwide Park: Important Suggestions for Your First Go to
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