Your Gateway to the High Desert
Day Trip to Joshua Tree National Park from Palm Springs
Just an hour’s drive from Royal Sun Palm Springs, Joshua Tree is where otherworldly landscapes meet soul-stirring sunsets. Whether you’re hiking among twisted yucca trees or marveling at massive boulders, it’s an unforgettable escape—it’s feasible in one day.
Can you do a day trip to Joshua Tree from Palm Springs?
Yes, you can—and we’ll show you exactly how to make the most of your desert daydream.
The desert after dark
Joshua Tree Stargazing
Thanks to its Dark Sky Park designation, Joshua Tree is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. Bring a blanket, pack some snacks, and prepare to be blown away by the Milky Way overhead.
Check the night sky forecast
For the most accurate stargazing conditions, check cloud cover, moon phase, and visibility before heading out. We recommend using Clear Sky Chart for real-time forecasts specific to Joshua Tree or do a quick online search.
Ideal Stargazing Locations in Joshua Tree:
– Cap Rock
– Skull Rock area
– Hidden Valley
– Keys View (only if no moon—car lights can interfere)
– Cottonwood Campground (very dark skies)
Know before you go
What to Expect at Joshua Tree
– Visitor Center: Stop by for maps, water, and trail advice.
– Park Hours & Fees: Open 24/7. Day-use fee: $30 per vehicle.
– Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in campgrounds and roads, but not on most trails.
Joshua Tree Weather
– Temperatures can swing 40+ degrees between day and night—layering is key
– Summers are extremely hot; plan hikes early in the morning or late afternoon
– Winter can bring freezing nighttime temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations
– There’s little to no shade on most trails—bring sun protection
– Always check current weather conditions before heading into the park: NPS Weather Page
What to do
Things to do in Joshua Tree
Whether you’re here for a quick day trip or a full desert adventure, these iconic stops offer a glimpse into Joshua Tree’s surreal beauty and rich natural history.
– Hidden Valley Trail – Iconic 1-mile loop through jumbo boulders
– Skull Rock – Snap a photo at this surreal natural formation
– Keys View – Panoramic desert views stretching to Mexico
– Barker Dam Trail – Short hike with history, wildlife, and seasonal water
What to Know Before You Go
Joshua Tree is remote, wild, and beautiful—but that also means a little planning goes a long way. Make the most of your visit with these quick tips.
Helpful Info:
– Bring plenty of water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
– There is no cell service in most parts of the park
– Download or print trail maps ahead of time
History, Naming & National Park Basics
Joshua Tree FAQs
How did Joshua Tree get its name?
The name comes from 19th-century Mormon settlers. As they crossed the Mojave Desert, they thought the tree’s twisted, outstretched branches resembled the biblical figure Joshua raising his hands toward the sky in prayer — and the name stuck. Today, the Joshua tree is an icon of the American Southwest.
Why is Joshua Tree called Joshua Tree?
It’s named after the Joshua tree plant itself — a type of yucca that only grows in this region. Its unique shape, dramatic silhouettes, and adaptations to desert life make it one of the park’s most famous highlights.
When was Joshua Tree National Park established?
Joshua Tree was designated a National Monument in 1936 and later became a National Park in 1994 under the California Desert Protection Act. This upgrade helped preserve more than 750,000 acres of desert landscapes.
Where is Joshua Tree located?
Joshua Tree National Park sits where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet, about one hour from Palm Springs — making it a perfect day trip for guests of Royal Sun Palm Springs.
Is Joshua Tree worth visiting?
Absolutely. With otherworldly rock formations, vast starry skies, and trails for every skill level, it’s one of California’s most unforgettable natural escapes — especially if you only have a day to explore.
The Ultimate Desert Getaway for Your Hiking Adventure
Why Stay at Royal Sun Palm Springs?
When it comes to comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome after a day on the trails, Royal Sun Palm Springs checks all the boxes. With easy access to some of the best hikes in the desert, pet-friendly accommodations, and a laid-back vibe perfect for post-adventure recovery, it’s the ideal home base for your next hiking getaway. Whether you’re hitting sunrise canyon trails or golden hour loops, you’ll love having a cozy retreat to return to—boots off, feet up, views on.
