What are the best things to see and do in Joshua Tree National Park?
Posted on Mar 01, 2026 / Travel
There’s honestly a ton to explore in Joshua Tree beyond just its iconic trees: rock climbing on giant boulders, scenic hikes like Hidden Valley or Ryan Mountain, watching sunrise at Keys View, and sunset at spots like Cap Rock are all popular adventures. Photographers and desert lovers head to places like the Cholla Cactus Garden or Skull Rock for unique landscapes and quiet moments among nature. Stargazing at night here is excellent because it’s an International Dark Sky Park with limited light pollution once the sun goes down. If you’re into history, ranger-led programs and interpretive exhibits at the visitor centers can teach you about desert ecology and Native history. Many visitors also enjoy sliding slow drives through Pinto Basin Road or taking easy walks around picnic areas to see plants up close. You can literally spend days going from one cool spot to the next, or just chill by your campsite listening to the desert silence.
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