JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Joshua Tree National Park is located 38 miles east of Palm Springs, California. From where we were staying we decided to take the incredible scenic route through the city of Mecca, via Box Canyon Road, to the south entrance of the National Park. A stop at the Cottonwood Visitor Center to get a park map, National Park stamp, a few souvenirs, and a car pass ($30) and off we went.

After talking to the park ranger we decided to hike the Mastodon Peak Loop. Mastodon Peak Loop is a three-mile hike; the trail head is located down the side road right around the corner from the visitor center. Cottonwood Spring Trail (1 mile) and Lost Palms Oasis Trail  (7.5 miles) are also accessed at the same trail head. 

Fan Palm Oasis

The Mastodon Peak Loop takes you past the Fan Palm Oasis, up toward Mastodon Peak an optional tenth of a mile scramble, past the Mastodon Gold Mine and through several desert washes. The trail  surface is broken down granite and includes an elevation change of 375 feet. There are stairs along the trail that you will need to climb, but the view at the top is worth it! When you reach the peak you can see the Salton Sea in the distance.

As always when hiking in dry washes PLEASE check the weather conditions or speak to the park ranger at the visitor center. The power of water can be seen as you enter the park, a small section of the road has been washed out and is currently down to a single lane. The power of water is also apparent when hiking and you realize you may not have enough water to drink! #waterisyourfriend

Beautiful Desert Landscape

During your hike keep an eye out for the trail markers (and small lizards that raise up their tail in such a way it will make you believe for a quick second that they are scorpions!) because there are many spots where it's difficult to determine which direction you should head. The park has placed rocks across side trails at some spots to keep you heading in the right direction.

Desert Plants

Mastodon Gold Mine

When hiking in the desert bring plenty of water. We recommend leaving additional water in your car. We always seem to gulp the last of our water as we near the end of the hike and even though the water in your car may be warm, it's still refreshing when you end the hike parched. #whetyourwhistle 

Snacks, first aid kit (including a small pocket knife), compass, sunscreen, hat and sturdy hiking boots are a must. Hiking poles are highly recommended even though we didn't have ours on this day hike. #lessonlearned 

ADVENTURE ON!