Palm Springs is a destination that already feels like an oasis, but just about an hour away lies another world worth exploring. A day trip to Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Southern California. Known for its dramatic desert landscapes, iconic Joshua trees, and surreal rock formations, the park offers an adventure that feels far removed from city life yet is easily accessible from Palm Springs. A day trip to Joshua Tree is an ideal way to spend a full day outdoors before returning to comfort in the evening.
Getting to Joshua Tree from Palm Springs
Reaching Joshua Tree is part of the experience. The drive is straightforward and scenic, taking you through wide open desert stretches and small towns along the way. Most visitors enter the park through the west entrance near Joshua Tree Village or the north entrance near Twentynine Palms. The west entrance is popular for its proximity to well-known trails and landmarks. If you leave Palm Springs in the morning, you will have plenty of time to explore and still make it back before nightfall.
Iconic Sites to Visit On Your Day Trip to Joshua Tree
Once inside the park, the landscapes immediately set the tone for your day. Hidden Valley is a favorite stop for its short trail surrounded by massive boulders, making it a great introduction to the unique terrain. Keys View provides panoramic vistas across the Coachella Valley, with clear days even offering glimpses of Mexico in the distance. Skull Rock is another highlight, with its natural stone formation shaped unmistakably like a skull. The Cholla Cactus Garden is magical at sunrise or sunset when the light makes the cacti glow golden. These sites are spread across the park, but with a little planning, you can fit several into one day trip.
Hiking Opportunities
Joshua Tree is a hiker’s paradise. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks. For something short but memorable, Barker Dam offers a loop that passes historic rock art and a seasonal reservoir. For a longer option, Ryan Mountain provides a steady climb with breathtaking views at the top. Even if you are not a serious hiker, there are plenty of short trails that give you a feel for the park’s scenery without requiring too much time or energy. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks since amenities within the park are limited.
Rock Climbing and Photography
The park has long been a mecca for rock climbers. Even if climbing is not on your agenda, watching climbers scale the massive rock faces adds another layer of excitement to your visit. The boulders themselves are also great for casual scrambling and photography. Joshua Tree’s mix of twisted trees, desert plants, and otherworldly rocks make it one of the most photogenic national parks in the country. Photographers often time their visits for sunrise and sunset when the light transforms the landscape into something magical.
Experiencing the Local Towns
Before or after your park adventure, the surrounding towns of Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms add to the experience. Joshua Tree Village has quirky shops, local art galleries, and cafes where you can grab a bite before heading back to Palm Springs. The Joshua Tree Coffee Company is a favorite stop for freshly roasted brews, and the town’s art installations highlight the creative energy that thrives in the desert. Twentynine Palms is another option, with restaurants and local murals that give you a taste of desert culture.
Return to Comfort with Ryson Vacations
After a long day of hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the desert, nothing feels better than returning to a comfortable home base in Palm Springs. A vacation rental can accommodate every personality, design desire, and vacation purpose. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, we have a property that fits your trip. Each home is designed to feel like you have never left home, with thoughtful details and amenities that elevate your stay.
We offer as close to a hotel experience as possible, paired with incredible service that ensures you do not have to lift many fingers during your vacation. Browse amenities like refreshing pools, EV chargers, casitas, and more to find the right rental for your group. From girls’ trips to birthday weekends to solo self-care escapes, our homes are the perfect place to relax and recharge after your adventure in Joshua Tree.
Start Planning Your Adventure
A Joshua Tree day trip from Palm Springs combines the best of both worlds. You can immerse yourself in the striking beauty of one of California’s most iconic national parks and then return to the comfort and style of Palm Springs on the same day. Book your Palm Springs rental with Ryson Vacations today and make your desert adventure complete with a home that blends comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury!
