Best Things To Do at Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is where two great deserts meet—the higher, cooler Mojave Desert and the lower, warmer Colorado Desert—creating one of America’s most distinctive landscapes. Iconic Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) punctuate valleys of monzogranite boulders, wind-sculpted rock piles, and rugged mountains, giving the park a timeless, vintage character that inspires WPA-style and retro National Park Posters, fine-art photography, and design collectors alike. Highlights like Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, Keys View, Barker Dam, and the Cholla Cactus Garden showcase the park’s surreal geology and biodiverse desert habitats, from cactus gardens to pinyon-juniper woodlands.

Rich in human history spanning more than 5,000 years, the area includes Indigenous cultural sites, ranching remnants, and historic mines. First protected as a national monument in 1936 and redesignated a national park in 1994, Joshua Tree encompasses roughly 800,000 acres and welcomes nearly three million visitors annually. Just a few hours from Los Angeles and minutes from Palm Springs, it’s a premier desert escape for rock climbing on world-class granite, scenic hiking, bird-watching, landscape photography, and exceptional stargazing under International Dark Sky Park–quality skies. Spring wildflowers, crisp autumn days, and mild winters offer comfortable conditions, while summer brings classic desert heat. Whether you’re exploring slot canyons and boulder mazes or collecting National Park Posters that celebrate its iconic forms, Joshua Tree National Park delivers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and creative inspiration.

My name is Rob Decker, a photographer and graphic artist with a lifelong passion for America’s National Parks. I’ve visited 51 of our 62 National Parks — and Joshua Tree holds a special place in my journey. Its vast, rugged landscape and historical depth have inspired my own Vintage National Park Poster designs, aimed at capturing its essence. For first-time visitors and returning fans, here are some top activities that showcase the best of Joshua Tree National Park!

Rock Climbing

Joshua Tree National Park is world-renowned for rock climbing, with thousands of cracks, slabs, and boulders spread across its vast landscape, drawing climbers from around the world. This desert park is a climbing paradise, making it a popular feature in Retro National Park Posters celebrating America's great outdoors.

The climbing spots vary in difficulty, making Joshua Tree suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. At Climber’s Coffee, held at the Hidden Valley Campground on weekend mornings from mid-October through April, visitors can meet Joshua Tree’s climbing ranger and mingle with fellow climbers. For those looking to improve their skills, consider a guided climb with a certified guide who knows the best routes and ensures safety.

Beginners can try Intersection Rock, Quail Springs Rock, Atlantis Wall, and Thin Wall, while seasoned climbers might tackle Big Moe, Clean and Jerk, Wangerbanger, or multi-pitch climbs on Lost Horse Wall and Saddle Rock. While Joshua Tree is popular year-round, the best climbing seasons are October-November and March-April, when temperatures are optimal.

Hiking

With over 300 miles of trails, Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of hikes ranging from easy loops to challenging backcountry treks. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or an all-day adventure, the park's trails reveal its iconic desert scenery, featured in countless National Park Posters.

Barker Dam Loop Trail

This easy 1.1-mile loop is one of my favorites. It winds through desert landscapes where Joshua trees, pinyon pines, and oak woodlands thrive. The presence of standing water at Barker Dam attracts wildlife and offers a unique desert experience, beautifully captured in Vintage National Park Posters.

Hidden Valley Trail

The Hidden Valley Trail is a 1-mile loop that offers a scenic glimpse of the park’s vegetation and stunning rock formations, perfect for shorter hikes. Joshua trees, pinyons, and various cacti line the path, and massive boulders make this trail a popular spot for rock climbing and an iconic subject for Retro National Park Posters.

Cholla Cactus Garden

This easy quarter-mile loop offers visitors the chance to see thousands of cholla cacti. The dense cactus forest is especially striking in the morning and evening light, creating a view worthy of any National Park Poster collection.

Lost Horse Mine

The 4-mile Lost Horse Mine loop is ideal for history enthusiasts. Following an old mining road, the trail reveals a part of Joshua Tree’s gold-mining history while showcasing stunning views, perfect for photography enthusiasts and vintage National Park Poster designs.

Boy Scout Hiking Trail

One of the more challenging trails in Joshua Tree, the Boy Scout Trail takes hikers 8 miles into the Wonderland of Rocks. For those who enjoy adventure and the iconic desert landscape, this trail offers an unforgettable experience. A vehicle shuttle is recommended for those hiking the full length.

Bird Watching

Joshua Tree hosts over 250 bird species throughout the year. From roadrunners to hawks, the park's birdlife is a delight for wildlife enthusiasts. Popular birding spots include Barker Dam, the Oasis of Mara, and Cottonwood Spring, where bird-watchers can capture moments worthy of National Park Posters.

Stargazing

Joshua Tree is known for its dark night skies, making it one of the best places for stargazing. The annual Night Sky Festival is a must-attend event with telescopes, constellation tours, and more, offering an inspiring experience for stargazing enthusiasts and a staple of many Retro National Park Posters.

Camping & Lodging

With over 500 campsites, Joshua Tree offers plenty of camping options. Visitors can reserve spots in advance during peak season or explore nearby private campgrounds and lodges in the towns of Joshua Tree and 29 Palms. A night under the stars in Joshua Tree is an experience to cherish and a scene often captured in Vintage National Park Posters.

Scenic Photography Spots

Joshua Tree National Park’s natural wonders are a dream for photographers and poster artists, with iconic spots that have been featured in many Retro National Park Posters.

Arch Rock

This 30-foot granite arch, located near White Tank Campground, offers a stunning photo opportunity framed by its unique rock structure, ideal for creating memorable National Park Poster imagery.

Keys View

Keys View provides panoramic views of Joshua Tree, the Coachella Valley, and beyond. A popular viewpoint for sunrise and sunset, it’s a scenic highlight perfect for those capturing the beauty of Joshua Tree in a Vintage National Park Poster.

Skull Rock

Located along the main park road, Skull Rock is a unique formation resembling a human skull, making it a top attraction and a popular subject for photography and National Park Posters alike.

Before You Visit

Joshua Tree’s remote location means limited cell service, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection. With the desert’s intense summer heat, the best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is October-May.

 

Click here to see the Joshua Tree National Park poster.

Meet the Artist

Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who had the rare privilege of studying under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph all of America’s National Parks. He’s creating WPA-style posters to help people celebrate their own national park adventures — as well as encourage others to get out and explore!

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