written by Betty Nguyen
Joshua Tree is one of the most interesting and beautiful places in California (and the country, I think). Most people from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego have visited here. However, I was quite surprised to learn that most of my Bay Area friends haven’t and they’re from California.
I’ve been there three times and I still cannot get enough of the National Park’s alien-like landscapes with its ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders. Impressive Insta-worthy scenery for hikes and leisurely drives. Also, Joshua Tree itself, which offers unique Airbnb accommodations, a few tasty restaurants, some good desert shopping, and quirky public art that only exists in these tiny, warm-weather communities.
Here is my weekend guide to enjoy your desert trip:
Day 1:
- Take Hwy 10 EAST to Hwy 62 (Joshua Tree Exit)
- Lunch at Natural Sisters Cafe
- Drive to Pioneertown (Hwy 62, Left at Pioneertown Rd)
- Have dinner (make reservations ahead of time) and see live music at Pappy & Harriets
Day 2:
- Breakfast at the Crossroads Cafe
- Check out the Farmers Market (8:00-1:00pm), buy and prepare snacks, drinks, lunch for your park visit
- Stop by the Park Visitor Center (Park Blvd @ Hwy 62)
- Go EAST on Hwy 62 (15 miles) to the 29 Palms (NORTH) Park Entrance
(then drive back through the park and exit Joshua Tree) - Drive to White Tank Campground, check out Arch Rock (easy 1/4 walk)
- Stop at Skull Rock – a roadside attraction
- Stop at Cap Rock (at the corner of Park Blvd and Keys View Road)
- Head back towards the Joshua Tree Entrance
- Stop at Intersection Rock, hike around the rocks and watch the sunset
- Dinner at 2 Guys Pies Brick Oven, they have vegetarian and vegan options
Day 3:
- Breakfast at the JT Country Kitchen and coffee at Joshua Tree Coffee Company
- If you have time, visit the Salvation Mountain (2 hours drive) or visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Art Museum
- Buy herbs in the Joshua Tree Health Food Store
- Head WEST on HWY 62 and you will be back on Hwy 10 in 30 minutes
Although Nomoon Travel does not offer tours to Joshua Tree, we do provide travel consultation services. Let us help you plan and book here.
Have you been to Joshua Tree? Comment below with your suggestions or recommendations.