Joshua Tree National Park is about 40 miles northeast of Palm Springs and is famous for, yep, you got it, its Joshua trees! It also is known for its rock formations, smoothed and shaped by wind and water over millions of years. Rock climbers and boulderers love this park. We had planned to camp in the park, but it is only dry camping (no electric/water/sewer) and since the temps are now desert hot, we need to continuously run the A/C and then use our generator to recharge the batteries. So, we decided to stay at a nearby commercial park that we could plug in. Murphy was happy as it had a small dog park, a nice clubhouse, and I got to go swimming!
Joshua trees aren’t actually trees, but a type of yucca. Their unique shapes are quite captivating. If they aren’t a tree, how did they get that name? Legend has it, Mormon pioneers saw the outstretched branches as resembling the biblical Joshua leading them to the promised land. The tree has had other names, such as “yucca palm” or “tree yucca” but the name “Joshua tree” became the commonly used name. Amongst the trees there were often offshoots, which the trees produce from underground runners. Wildfires have significantly impacted Joshua Tree populations. In 2020, the Dome Fire killed an estimated 1.3 million Joshua trees in the Mojave Desert. The higher temps from climate change is also killing more trees. Hang in there Joshua trees! You are so unique and beautiful in your own way.
We spent the morning on a scenic drive around the park, stopping at various points of interest. Dogs aren’t allowed on the trails so Murphy and I walked around the parking lot area while Dave went on the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. It is believed this valley was once used by cattle rustlers as a pasture, hidden by the boulders, hence its name.
Here’s one of the uniquely shaped boulders – Skull Rock.
The scenic drive next took us to an overlook with breathtaking views of the San Adreas Fault, Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea. Those of us from California, know all about the San Andreas fault and its propensity for earthquakes, sometimes devastating.
Our last stop was Cholla Cactus Garden. While driving along, suddenly there were tons of Cholla cacti on both sides of the road. So very weird. I guess it is the elevation, climate, etc. that this cactus thrives in. And no Joshua trees in sight. Cholla have barbed spines that can tenaciously attach to skin, fur, and clothing. There were warning signs to make sure you wear closed toes shoes on the garden path and don’t touch a cholla!
The next day we drove to Palm Springs for an early morning breakfast at Elmer’s, on a wonderful dog friendly patio. They had all these huge pictures on them menu which helped our selections. I enjoyed a German pancake and Dave had potato cakes. Both were amazing! Next, we drove through the downtown area and planned to drive up to the aerial tram, in operation since 1963. However, it didn’t start operating until 10 a.m. (and it was only 8 a.m.). It was $15 just to enter the parking lot, so we turned around. We still had great views from road leading to the tram.
A bit later in the day, we were off for more exploring. Nearby the RV park was Pioneertown, which was originally a film set known for its 1880’s-themed town, founded by Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. It has hosted countless Western films and TV series. It also has a residential area with businesses and restaurants, catering to residents and visitors alike. We ate at legendary Pappy & Harriett’s, known for its Santa Maria BBQ. Yum yum!
We are now off to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and some cooler temperatures. We have a fun stop on the way, so stay tuned for the next blog.
Loved the uniqueness of Joshua Tree National Park, amazing sights everywhere Dave, and when do I get to swim again Murphy?
Interesting facts about the Joshua trees. I had to double back to see if I could recognize the man called Joshua.