Joshua Tree National Park

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We camped on BLM land at the south entrance of Joshua Tree National park with our friends Patti, Karl, Stacey, & Walt. We spent 2 days in the park exploring the treasures it has to offer. The Joshua Trees reminded us of something out of a Dr. Seuss book. The rock climbing was so fun. So different from any national park we have been to before.

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Photos

Cottonwood Spring Palm
Indians, cowboys, miners, teamsters, and other desert travelers found Cottonwood Spring a refreshing place. In the area are stone mortars and artifacts that indicate Indians camped here for centuries. There is also evidence of miners and homesteaders having spent time in the area.

Cottonwood Spring Palms
The view of the palms oasis on the way down the trail.

Trail/clouds
This was an easy trail to follow with several hills to climb. The clouds were amazing and keep us cooler during the hiking.

Stone mortar
Cahuilla Indians used the mortar holes to pound mesquite and other seeds into flour. Imagine the time it took to get these holes so deep!

Danger!
So many things in the desert are prepared to attack. This bush had thorns that would definitely leave a mark if you landed in it. Mike, always pushing the envelope.

Desert Tortoise
He was resting is some shade along the Lost Palm Trail

Yucca plants
These yucca plants were plentiful along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Climbing
You are free to climb the rocks, at your own risk. Stacey was definitely the rock-climbing queen!

Cottonwood Spring Palms
The view of the palms on the way back.

Cholla Garden
The Cholla cactus was very dense in this area. The park had crisscrossing trails that gave you a good view.

ChollaTrail
The trail took you right up to the Teddy Bear Cholla. But don't try to hug these teddy bears, they are not soft and cuddly.

Coachella Valley
On the second day, we started at Keys View which overlooked the valley.

Keys View Salton Sea
In the distance on the upper left is the Salton Sea. It lies 235 feet below sea level.

Mount San Jacinto (10,831 feet)
There was snow on the mountain. It is more than twice the height of the mountains within Joshua Tree National Park.

San Andreas Fault
In the valley lies the San Andreas Fault.

Cap Rock
Joshua Tree National Park is known for its large boulders. So many interesting formations throughout the park!

Strongman
Mysterious how these rocks stay in place! Climbing them was so much fun!

Rock climbing
An adult playground with all the rocks to climb.

Higher
Stacey is definitely part mountain goat. She loved climbing to new heights!

Climbing
The two things Joshua Tree is known for - the rocks and the Joshua trees. We found both fascinating!

Joshua Tree
The trees are like something out of a Dr. Seuss book