Joshua Tree National Park

While the Joshua Tree area has been inhabited by humans for at least 5000 years, by the late 1920s the development of new roads into the desert had brought an influx of land developers and cactus poachers. Minerva Hoyt, a Pasadena resident who was extremely fond of desert plants, became concerned about the removal of cacti and other plants to the gardens of Los Angeles. Her tireless efforts to protect this area culminated in 825,000 acres being set aside as Joshua Tree National Monument in 1936. As part of the Desert Protection Bill, Joshua Tree National Monument was elevated to park status on October 31, 1994. Joshua Tree provides habitat for 813 higher plant species, 46 reptile species, 57 mammal species, and over 250 bird species. Elevations in the park range from a low of 536 feet to a high of 5,814 feet at Quail Mountain.

Surrounded by twisted, spiky trees straight out of a Dr. Seuss book, you might begin to question your map. Where are we anyway? In wonder, the traveler pulls over for a snapshot of this prickly oddity. The naturalist reaches for a botanical guide to explain this vegetative spectacle. The rock climber shouts, “Yowch!” when poked by dagger-like spines on the way to the climbing route. Known as the park namesake, the Joshua tree, Yucca brevifolia, is a member of the Agave family. Until recently, it was considered a giant member of the Lily family. However, modern DNA studies led to the division of that formerly huge family into 40 distinct plant families.

There are several options for a drive to the park. One is a circle route that goes northwest on I-10 West from La Quinta then north to Twenty-nine Palms, proceeding south through the park to where it joins I-10, then back to La Quinta. This will make for a long trip so leaving early is the best bet. Importantly, Joshua Tree National Park is in the Mohave Desert, and it will be hot in June, so a car in top mechanical condition is a must. Air-cooled Porsches certainly need to pay attention to engine temperatures!

The short, most direct route to the park heads east on I-10 to the park’s south entrance. The Cottonwood Visitor Center is a short drive from there, located near the Cottonwood Springs area, a unique grove of palm trees and cottonwood trees. The Visitor Center features historical/interpretive information and exhibits, as well as gifts, souvenirs, and books in the bookstore.

An optional attraction near the south entrance is the General George Patton Memorial Museum, a few miles further east on I-10, where you can view the military exhibits and have a meal at the Chiriaco Summit Restaurant before heading back to La Quinta.

General Patton handpicked the site and was the first commander of the Desert Training Center, where over a million men were trained for the WWII effort. This became the world’s largest military installation both in size and population stretching from Arizona to Nevada to California. “The mission of the General Patton Memorial Museum is to promote peace by honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans while educating the public on modern U.S. military history through the preservation and interpretation of artifacts from the major conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries.”

There is a $30 admission fee per car unless you have an annual or lifetime National Park Pass, with reduced fees for military and seniors. Take time to stop at one of the Visitor Centers along the way. Bring lots of water to stay hydrated. Snacks are also recommended.

It is highly recommended that you read the “Planning your visit” page on the park website prior to making the drive: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/index.htm

“Desert weather can change swiftly and dramatically. Knowing the forecast is an important part of preparing for your Joshua Tree visit. The National Weather Service forecast for Joshua Tree National Park is a good starting point. Note that this forecast zone covers a vast area with elevations ranging from 536 feet (163 m) in the park's extreme southeast corner to 5,814 feet (1,773 m) atop Quail Mountain. Conditions may vary greatly depending on your exact location within the park. Remember, your safety is your responsibility.”

Driving Directions

Loop route through the park via Twenty-nine Palms to I-10 to La Quinta:
https://goo.gl/maps/Bd2b1A8JBQRa9X4v9   146 miles/3.25 hrs

Short route, to Cottonwood Visitor Center from South Entrance: https://goo.gl/maps/oWw2XCk6aBkbX1k58 (38 miles/1 hour, one way)