Joshua Tree: Get Out of LA and Into Nature

On our second trip to California, Brandon told me there would be a stop in Joshua Tree. When I asked what was significant, he responded, “Because you asked to go there.”

Huh. I completely forgot I had asked. What made it so special? Come find out that it is an International Dark Sky Park. Considering we had just missed out on one at Crater of the Moon National Monument in Idaho, I would not let this one pass us by!

When we got to our campsite after eating dinner in Palm Springs, I could not believe my eyes. It was so gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I have since been back, and if I had the opportunity to move to California, this would be the city I would want to live in.

Here’s why Joshua Tree is so cool.

The Vacation Rental Reek of Coolness

I’m all for staying in your van or tent camping. This time, though, take one day and book a vacation rental.

Pretty much every vacation rental has a pool or a hot tub, and many are supremely decorated. Ours was 70s-themed, bright, and cheery—perfect for the kinds of places I like to stay.

As an added bonus, since it was a rental and not a hotel, we picked up groceries in Phoenix and made both dinner and breakfast the next morning in-house.

Our hotel had a hot tub, which was my main draw for renting the place (the cool factor was an added bonus). Once we turned off all the lights, it was stunning.

Check it out more here!

No matter the size, you can find the right place for you and your group.

Joshua Tree Coffee Company

I think my favorite part about Joshua Tree Coffee Company is the window that allows you to see through and watch the roasting process.

Given that they roast their own organic beans, the coffee shop has a bit of a sophisticated feel. They also make their own syrups in-house, giving it that extra flair.

Also, being me, I loved the black on the outside of the building. It helps it stand out, allowing me to see it when I’m driving at night. The pink on the cup adds that extra pop, making for a great photo op.

I ordered a hot mocha, and it was good—nothing worth riding home about if we’re being honest. Breanna’s iced latte was very bitter—too much coffee. So we doctored it with some milk I had bought in Phoenix.

Their outdoor area behind the building looks very nice and would be perfect for those cooler months; however, we didn’t have the time, and it was already getting hot.

Here’s my overall review- I would go back to buy beans and then head to where I’m staying and make my own coffee, moka pot in hand.

Joshua Tree National Park

I will do a full review of the park at a later date; for now, it is worth noting. As I’ve stated, this park is (as of right now) my favorite national park. The night sky is breathtaking, and there are even some fun things to do during the day.

While we were there, we hiked the Lost Horse Mine trail and enjoyed learning about the land’s owner and history. Brandon was himself and went down in the mine!

We went in July, and it was HOT. If that’s your plan, start early and bring plenty of water. Don’t be afraid to go shirtless, either.

Few people are on the route, and it’s a fairly easy hike with plenty to see and even more rocks to climb.

There are over forty hiking trails, so I am already planning my next trip back.

Conclusion

If you want to get out of the Los Angeles area and be in nature, Joshua Tree is the place to be.

It’s only about 90 miles out of the area, but it feels like you are in an entirely different world. Surrounded by beautiful Joshua trees and several different mountain formations, you can take a deep breath and live quietly for a little bit.