Palm Springs to Joshua Tree Day Trip: What You NEED to Know Before You Go

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Heading from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park? I’ve got you covered!

Joshua Tree is about 40 miles, or roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour, from Palm Springs.

Whether you’ve been to the Coachella Valley before or if you’re a first-time visitor, this guide will help you figure out the logistics of getting there and back and making the most of your journey.

Drawing from years of personal experiences since 2008, exploring every nook of Palm Springs and hiking the diverse trails of Joshua Tree, I’m here to share insider tips and the best spots to explore.

Inside this article, we’ll go over how to navigate Joshua Tree so you can plan a seamless day trip from Palm Springs.

Let’s dive in! 🌵

Palm Springs to Joshua Tree Day Trip Itinerary

Located near Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert landscape in California. — *This post contains affiliate links, meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to purchase at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep providing you with high quality content for free.*

Swap your Palm Springs chill for a Joshua Tree thrill with this streamlined day trip itinerary. Here’s how to make the most of your desert adventure from dawn until dusk.

Morning: Early Start & Hike

Depart Early: Leave Palm Springs by 7 AM to beat the heat and the crowds. The drive itself is scenic, setting the stage for your day ahead.

Hike: Start with a morning hike. I suggest the Hidden Valley trail, which offers an easy one-mile loop where you can see some pretty cool Joshua trees and rock formations. It’s a great way to kick off your day in the park.

Or, if you’re looking to get a bit more challenge, Ryan Mountain offers panoramic views, although it’s a bit more strenuous. You choose!

Afternoon: Lunch & Explore

Lunch: After your hike, refuel at The Natural Sisters Cafe with some healthy eats.

Take Another Hike: Post-lunch, I recommend the Barker Dam Nature Trail. It’s a relatively easy hike that leads to a historic dam and often features a small water pool, surrounded by fascinating rock formations and petroglyphs.

Late Afternoon: Scenic Drive & Pioneertown

Scenic Drive: For those who prefer to take in the beauty of Joshua Tree from the comfort of their car, you can opt for a drive through Park Boulevard for stunning desert views.

A quick stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail is a must. It’s about 12 miles south of the park’s northern entrance.

The flat loop covers a distance of 0.25 miles and takes you through almost 10 acres. The landscape along this trail is primarily dominated by the teddybear cholla.

Pioneertown: On your way back, visit Pioneertown (more on it, below). This historic movie set turned living town offers a glimpse into the Old West and is the perfect way to wind down the day.

If you have time, maybe have an early dinner at Pappy & Harriet’s.

It’s my favorite restaurant in the area! I’ve been going there for years.

Evening: Head Back

Return to Palm Springs: Enjoy the desert’s changing colors on your drive back, wrapping up your day of exploration and adventure.

Important Things to Know Before You Go to Joshua Tree

Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park, California.

Before you head out on your desert adventure from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree, there are a few crucial bits of info that’ll make your trip smoother.

Best Times to Visit

March to May and October to November: These months offer the most comfortable weather, with average highs around 85°F, perfect for hiking and exploring. Plus, spring brings the bonus of wildflower blooms!
Stargazing Galore: Joshua Tree is a renowned dark sky park, making it a prime spot if you love astronomy. Plan your visit around a new moon for the best views. You can even take stargazing tours in Joshua Tree!

Park Entrance Fees and Passes

Fees: The most common fee is the Private Vehicle Pass, which costs $30 and is valid for 7 days. This pass covers everyone in the vehicle, making it good for groups.
Free Days: Mark your calendar for free entrance days, including MLK Day, the first day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day.

Cell Service and Navigation

Prepare for spotty cell service. Cell reception is notoriously unreliable in Joshua Tree.

To avoid getting lost or missing out on must-see spots, I suggest downloading maps to your phone beforehand and researching hiking trails beforehand.

I’ve been stuck way too many times out in the desert without a connection. Well…. okay, it only happened once.

But once is more than enough! Don’t be me! 😂

Honor the Land and the History of Indigenous People

The land was first inhabited by the Pinto Culture, with the Serrano, Chemehuevi, and Cahuilla peoples following.

These groups have left a lasting legacy on the land, from ancient petroglyphs to traditional water impoundments.

As visitors, it’s crucial to pay tribute and honor the indigenous people who call this land home.

Take a moment to learn about their history and culture, and reflect on this during your visit. For more in-depth information, visit the National Park Service’s page on the people of Joshua Tree.

What to Pack for the Day

A woman standing in front of a grove of joshua trees on the way from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree.

Water Bottles or Hydration Packs: The desert sun is no joke, and staying hydrated is key. I like the water bottles by Hydro Flask.

Sunscreen: I highly recommend chemical-free sunscreen. I like this sunscreen by Drunk Elephant because it blends in pretty well after a few minutes and doesn’t leave a white residue.

A hat: A baseball cap is perfect for hikes, or you can go with an option that offers UPF50+ sun protection.

Clothing: I like this long-sleeve top for sun protection, this breathable tee for hiking, and these leggings.

Footwear: A good pair of trail runners is essential! I love, love, love my HOKA Challenger shoes (I even walked the Camino de Santiago in them!). They offer the perfect balance of support, grip, and flexibility for both hiking and casual walking.

Pre-downloaded Digital Guides: Download maps beforehand. You can even take a self-guided tour of Joshua Tree if you’re looking to make things easy!

Camera: Sony a6700 (the one I own and love) / disposable camera (film, for fun)

How to Get to Joshua Tree from Palm Springs

Joshua tree in Joshua Tree National Park near Palm Springs.

The drive from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree is pretty straightforward.

I recommend entering Joshua Tree through the West (Main) Entrance or the North Entrance.

To get there, you’ll drive north out of Palm Springs on Indian Canyon Drive. Then, hop on the I-10 E for a bit, then exit onto CA-62 E.

If you’re entering the North Entrance, you will reach Utah Trail. Turn right and you’ll see the building at the park entrance.

If you’re entering the West Entrance, you’ll find the Park Visitor Center. You can stop here and ask a ranger about hiking trails, check out souvenirs, and use the bathroom. It’s the closest entrance when coming from Palm Springs and also the most popular one.

If you enter the South Entrance, it will take you a long time to get to the part of the park where you can see Joshua trees.

I’ve made that mistake before.

We saw the Cholla Cactus Garden first, which was so cool, but time was limited, and I really wanted to see some Joshua trees, you know what I mean?

Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Palm Springs to Joshua Tree: Explore the iconic national park in California.

Joshua Tree National Park is full of things to do for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and climbers.

Hiking

Arch Rock Hike: This easy 0.5-mile loop trail leads you to the famous Arch Rock, a natural granite arch that’s perfect for photos.

➡️ To get there, start at the White Tank Campground, where you’ll find the trailhead. The path is well-marked and good for adults and kids alike.

A woman standing next to a dead tree in the desert, between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree.

Skull Rock: One of Joshua Tree’s iconic landmarks, Skull Rock’s resemblance to a human skull has made it a must-visit.

➡️ Directions to Skull Rock: The rock is conveniently located along Park Boulevard, making it easily accessible, with parking available across the road. A short, easy trail loops around the rock, offering various angles for viewing and photography.

More Trails:

Hall of Horrors: Offering a bit more adventure, this area features narrow passages between towering rocks.

➡️ It’s accessible from a small parking area along Park Boulevard and is a great spot for scrambling and exploring.

Barker Dam Trail: This 1.3-mile loop leads to a historic dam built by early cattle ranchers. The trail offers beautiful views of the desert landscape and the chance to see petroglyphs.

➡️ The trailhead is located off Park Boulevard, with clear signage from the road.

Photography

I love taking photos in Joshua Tree.

It’s just SO surreal looking. The desert aesthetic is pure magic.

If you are a photographer, I suggest heading to the areas around Hidden Valley and Barker Dam. The trees are dense here, which will fill up your frame nicely.

Sunrise and sunset are (of course) great times to come shoot the magical light as it casts long shadows and golden, dusty light across the desert.

World Famous Crochet Museum

For something entirely different and a break from the desert landscape, make a stop at the World Famous Crochet Museum in the town of Joshua Tree.

This tiny, bright green former photo-processing booth now houses a quirky collection of crochet items, from animals to food items, all curated by local artist Shari Elf.

It’s a whimsical detour that adds a unique flavor to your Joshua Tree experience!

Scenic Drives in Joshua Tree

A white car parked in the desert near a Joshua Tree on the route from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree.

Joshua Tree National Park is perfect for you if you love a scenic drive.

Park Boulevard is the main road through the park. You can start from either the North or West Entrance, and see the dense forests of Joshua trees, striking rock formations, and panoramic overlooks.

It’s a perfect way to see the park’s highlights, with options for brief stops at key landmarks.

If you start from the park’s South Entrance, you can take Pinto Basin Road.

It’s a surprisingly different landscape that stretches 36 miles. This route transitions from the Mojave to the Colorado Desert, revealing vast desert basins and the unique Cholla Cactus Garden.

Interested in even more scenic routes through Joshua Tree? Keys View Road and Geology Tour Road offer more views, from the San Andreas Fault to intricate geological formations.

Want to take a tour instead? Check out the San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour from Palm Desert.

Pioneertown

Cactus and cactus pots on the front porch of a cactus shop in Joshua Tree.

On your way back to Palm Springs, don’t miss a stop in Pioneertown! Born in the 1940s as an 1880s-themed town, it was originally developed as a live-in movie set for Western films and TV series.

Some of the best BBQ and live music around can be found at Pappy & Harriet’s. I’ve been coming here for years, even before it became wildly popular!

Amazing musicians have performed here…. from Paul McCartney to Lizzo, Patti Smith, Belle & Sebastian, Leon Russell, Taking Back Sunday, the Arctic Monkeys, and more.

On weekends and holidays, there can be long waits at Pappy & Harriet’s. Come early (like 5pm) to beat the rush.

A woman wearing a ha who made the trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree to eat at dinner in Pioneertown. — *A Pappy & Harriet’s celebrating my 30th*

I spent my 30th birthday dining at Pappy and Harriet’s and staying at the Pioneertown Motel. It was so much fun!

Remember, while exploring Pioneertown, respect the private residences in the area.

Where to Eat Around Joshua Tree

Good news – there are a few great restaurants around the area! So, on your way from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree, you can stop for breakfast and/or lunch.

The Natural Sisters Cafe

A haven if you’re seeking vegetarian-friendly options. Known for its fresh, healthy dishes, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up with a nourishing breakfast or lunch before exploring the park.

Crossroads Cafe

The go-to place for a relaxed, friendly meal. Come here for breakfast. They serve some darn good eggs, potatoes, and biscuits smothered in gravy.

Frontier Cafe

Frontier Cafe is a great spot if you need to connect to wifi and get some work done with a coffee.

When I stayed in Pioneertown for my birthday, we drove down to Frontier Cafe to connect to wifi and catch up on some work emails. The local brew by Joshua Tree Coffee Company is served here.

Art Installations & Vintage Shopping Near Joshua Tree

Joshua tree in Joshua Tree National Park, located just a short drive from Palm Springs.

Beyond the stunning landscapes and hiking trails, the area around Joshua Tree is a hub of art, culture, and outdoor fun.

Art Queen

There is a quirky art scene in Joshua Tree. At Art Queen, you can get a taste of it.

Art Queen is an eclectic gallery and outdoor installation that showcases work by local artists.

You’ll love wandering around here and taking photos. The Art Queen sign is reminiscent of a Dairy Queen logo, which looks really cool juxtaposed with Joshua trees.

Shari Elf is the artist behind Art Queen, who is also a performer, singer-songwriter, seamstress, and store owner.

61855 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA

The Station

Once a gas station, now an art installation, The Station is a testament to the creative spirit of Joshua Tree. It’s a must-visit if you love art and also vintage objects/antiques.

There are tons of jewelry, vintage items, souvenirs, and more to browse.

Hours: Thurs – Mon, 10am – 5pm; Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

61943 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA

Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum

Spanning over 10 acres, this open-air museum features large-scale sculptures and installations crafted from discarded materials.

Quick background on the artist who made this all possible: Noah Purifoy was an influential American artist, known for his assemblage sculpture made from the charred remains of the 1965 Watts rebellion, marking a pivotal moment in art as a tool for social change.

Spending his final years in Joshua Tree, Purifoy created a sprawling ten-acre outdoor museum from discarded materials, establishing a legacy as a key figure in California’s art history.

The outdoor art museum is a profound exploration of assemblage art set against the desert backdrop.

Go see it!

62975 Blair Ln, Joshua Tree, CA

Safety Tips and Seasonal Advice

It’s important to keep weather conditions in mind before you visit Joshua Tree.

It can get really, really hot in the desert. Be sure to stay hydrated and dress in loose, light clothing.

The only time I had cold weather in Joshua Tree was in November, when I camped for one night at Black Rock Canyon Campground.

We were with my dog, Casper, and it got so cold that night, we had to go to Wal-Mart to pick up sweaters and blankets.

Aside from the winter months (November through March), you can expect temperatures to reach the 80s, 90s, and 100s Fahrenheit.

If you’re hiking during your day trip to Joshua Tree, bring at least 1 liter of water.

Looking for wildflowers? The best time of year to visit Joshua Tree to see wildflowers is from March to May.

For cooler hiking weather, visit from October to early November.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

A rock formation with a blue sky in the background, from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree.

If you’re planning to take a day trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park, you might be wondering where to stay in the area.

If so, here are some of my top recommendations, tailored by budget:

Mid-range:

The Saguaro Palm Springs: Offers colorful and comfortable accommodations within a vibrant desert oasis. With two pools, a spa, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary cruiser bikes available, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay!
Arrive: Drop your bags and pull out your phone: You’ve officially arrived at one of the top Instagram-worthy boutique hotels in Palm Springs. Such a great spot, and they do outdoor movies at the pool here, too!

Luxury:

Ritz Carlton, Rancho Mirage: The Ritz offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of upscale amenities such as a spa, golf course, and fine dining options. You’ll feel like a celebrity here.
La Serena Villas: If you’re looking for a more intimate and romantic experience, La Serena Villas is perfect. This boutique hotel features only 18 villas with private patios and outdoor showers!

Budget:

Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs: I’ll be honest, there are not many budget options in Palm Springs. But if I’d recommend one, it would be Margaritaville Resort. You get to be within walking distance of downtown and still get all the perks of being at a resort.

For more options on where to stay, check out my guide on the best boutique hotels in Palm Springs.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree

If you’d rather stay near Joshua Tree for the night instead of heading back to Palm Springs, there are plenty of options for you.

My Top Pick:

A bed with a blanket and a picture on the wall in pioneertown motel, which is where you can stay after driving from palm springs to joshua tree.

Pioneertown Motel: Like I mentioned earlier, the Pioneertown Motel is such a fun place to stay. It’s trendy, hip, and stylish. Not your average “motel” experience!

We stayed there in early December, and the next morning there was snow on the ground.

Camping

A dog yawns in a sleeping bag inside a tent on the way from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree.

The most popular and affordable option for staying in Joshua Tree is camping within the park itself.

There are nine campgrounds available, with varying amenities such as water, flush toilets, and dump stations.

The most popular campground is Black Rock Canyon Campground, where I stayed in November.

Reservations can be made up to six months in advance on recreation.gov.

Airbnb

Consider booking an Airbnb in Joshua Tree or nearby towns like Yucca Valley or Twentynine Palms.

These rental homes offer a variety of amenities, including full kitchens and outdoor spaces perfect for stargazing.

Closing Thoughts on Daytrips from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree

From the scenic drives and iconic hikes within Joshua Tree National Park to the vibrant art scene and historical Pioneertown, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy here.

I hope this post helped you prepare things to pack, know the best times to visit the park, and last but not least, how to get from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree!

Dive deeper into the beauty and excitement of the Coachella Valley with my curated list of the 10 Best Palm Springs Tours for First-Time Visitors (2024).