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Joshua Tree National Park

Two deserts, two large ecosystems whose characteristics are determined primarily by elevation, come together at Joshua Tree National Park. Below 3,000 feet, the Colorado Desert encompasses the eastern part of the park and features natural gardens of creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus. The higher, moister, and slightly cooler Mojave Desert is the special habitat of the Joshua tree. In addition to Joshua tree forests, the western part of the park also includes some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California(e2)(80)(997320)deserts. Five fan palm oases also dot the park, indicating those few areas where water occurs naturally and wildlife abounds.


Contact Information

74485 National Park Drive
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
760-367-5500 - Visitor Information


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Getting There

By Car
Joshua Tree National Park lies 140 miles east of Los Angeles. You can approach it from the west via Interstate 10 and Hwy 62 (Twentynine Palms Highway). The north entrances to the park are located at Joshua Tree Village and the city of Twentynine Palms. The south entrance at Cottonwood Spring, which lies 25 miles east of Indio, can be approached from the east or west, also via Interstate 10.

Weather

Days are typically clear with less than 25 precent humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall,with an average high/low of 85 and 50(c2)(b0)F (29 and 10(c2)(b0)C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60(c2)(b0)F (15(c2)(b0)C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100(c2)(b0)F (38(c2)(b0)C) during the day and not cooling much below 75(c2)(b0)F (24(c2)(b0)C) until the early hours of the morning.


Activities

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.
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  • Auto Touring
  • Biking
  • Camping
  • Climbing
  • Educational Programs
  • Hiking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Backpacking
  • Bird Watching
  • Nature Walks
  • Stargazing

Recommended Activities
For a first-time visitor the desert may appear bleak and drab. Viewed from the road, the desert only hints at its vitality. Closer examination reveals a fascinating variety of plants and animals. A rich cultural history and surreal geologic features add to the attraction of this place. Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Depending on the number of hours you have to spend, your interests and energy, click on more info above for some ideas to consider.


 

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Find Hiking and Biking Trails
If you like to go hiking or biking, then don't forget to get a map and guidebook. Trails.com offers a great service that allows unlimited downloads of trail guides for a small monthly fee. They even have a 14 day free trial. Whether you are looking for day hikes, backpacking trails, mountain bike routes or just short nature stroll, they cover it all. So let Trails.com help plan your next outing.
RV Information
Are you planning on traveling with your RV? If you are, you should check out the Good Sam Club. The Good Sam Club offers discounts on camping, a free magazine subscription and great tips on traveling with your RV. You can also get a free no-obligation RV Insurance quote . Give them a look and enjoy your trip.
Gear Up For Your Trip
Once you have finished deciding where to go, it will be time to gear up. A great place for adventure travel gear is The National Geographic Store. They have all types of maps and guides to help finalize your vacation plans.