Guide to Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

"Near Palm Springs, this protected desert expanse named for its twisted-limbed Joshua trees is best in spring or fall, when pleasant weather and wildflowers pair with stellar night skies. Spanning nearly 800,000 acres across the Mojave and Colorado deserts, it offers Joshua tree forests, massive rock formations, a cholla cactus garden, and wildlife like bighorn sheep and tortoises, plus ranger programs, hiking, and designated stargazing areas (Ryan Mountain, Hidden Valley, Quail Springs, and Cap Rock) in an International Dark Sky Park with a good chance to glimpse the Milky Way. Planning is essential: there are no gas stations inside the park, pets must be leashed and aren’t allowed on trails, and a leave-no-trace mindset matters—pack out trash, don’t remove rocks, and never disturb wildlife. Check the park website for trail closures, and pack layers for temperature swings and windy Santa Ana days." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com.  Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines