Ever since seeing a mystical photo of a Joshua Tree reaching for the stars at night, I’ve wanted to visit this park. I love the desert landscape and Joshua Trees just seem so unique and photographable! I finally got the chance to visit this May and learned quite a lot about the park!
Here are some interesting facts I’ve learned about Joshua Tree National Park:
1.Joshua Trees Aren’t Actually Trees!
They are an overgrown species of yucca, a type of desert plant.
2. Many Rock Formations
What I didn’t realize when visiting the park, was just how many rocks there would be! There are almost as many rocks as Joshua Trees. The park is known for its many rock formations, including the famous Skull Rock.
3. In Between Two Deserts
Joshua Tree National Park is so big that it spans across two deserts; the Mojave and Colorado Desert!
4. Great for Stargazing
Joshua Tree National Park is a popular stargazing destination. Because it’s essentially…a desert and far away from major cities, the park has very little light pollution. Some nights are so clear, that visitors can even see the Milky Way!
5. Spiritual Place
Joshua Tree National Park is said to be a spiritual place. The trees and stillness of the desert climate can be seen as sacred, and as a symbol for finding life amidst adversity. The park is also said to have multiple energy vortexes. Energy vortexes are places on Earth where whatever energy you give off gets magnified! Pretty neat huh?
6. Named by Mormons
No one really knows where the Joshua Tree got its name, but many believe it was named by Mormon settlers! The tree’s spindly, upturned branches reminded them of the biblical figure Joshua, who raises his hands up to the sky in prayer.
7. Tortoises on the Road
That’s right, sometimes there are tortoises crossing the road! There’s even a sign in the park to watch out for them, so be careful! Joshua Tree National Park is home to many desert animals including iguanas, quails, bighorn sheep, and roadrunners.
Some Useful Information:
- The park is 140 miles (225 km) east of Los Angeles, so from the I-10, take the CA 62 to get to the entrance.
- The park has three visitor centers: Joshua Tree, Oasis, and Cottonwood. There, you can get brochures and a map of the park.
- There’s an entrance fee of $30 USD per vehicle.
- BRING YOUR OWN WATER. The campgrounds do not have water!
- The majority of the park has no cell phone coverage.
- Off-road driving is prohibited.
Useful information. Love it. Thank you for clear points.
Thank you Natalia!