Joshua Tree Archives

In Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree Packing List

Having been to Joshua Tree National Park several times, I know a good packing list can come in handy. Every visit I have done to Joshua Tree has been via road trip, so I’ve included lots of road trip packing list items below as well. And depending on whether your camping in the park or staying at a nearby Airbnb or hotel, there are different items that will need to be on your list. Browse my comprehensive list of thing to bring to Joshua Tree below, including what to pack for the car, what to bring on a hike through the park, and camp necessities for spending a night under the stars.

^{This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. For more info, please see my affiliate disclaimer.}

Joshua Tree Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Packing List for the Road Trip to Joshua Tree

The road trip to Joshua Tree is the first part of the vacation, so you want to make sure you’re off to a smooth start. Everyone is a bit different in terms of what they need to keep in the car, but here are some essential packing list items to get you started:

Comfort Items for your Car

Driver’s seat: If you’re going to be sitting a long time, consider a seat belt cover to protect your shoulder, or a lumbar back support pillow that attaches to the seat.
Nap time: If you’ve got passengers looking to take a nap, be sure to grab one of these twisty neck pillows and some silk sleep masks for the family. Earplugs or headphones are always a great idea for any Joshua Tree Packing List.
Blankets are always a must, whether you’re planning to sleep in the car or if you just have passengers who tend to get cold. A simple throw blanket is always a good thing to keep in the back seat.
Overnight: If overnighting in your car on the way to Joshua Tree, browsing these blow up car mattresses may be a good choice.

Car Organization and Storage for Your Road Trip

A key factor to ensuring a smooth road trip is good organization. Your Joshua Tree packing list should include plenty of items to bring, but also plans on where to store them and how to organize them in the car. Here are some essentials for keep everything in place.

Front Seat: Seat gap organizers are a nice way to fill unused space and also keep things from slipping through the seat gaps.
Back Seat: Seat back organizers are great whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family. They are easy to reach from the driver’s seat, or they are great easy storage for back seat travelers. Hanging seat back trash cans are essential as well for keeping the car nice and clean.
Trunk: The trunk is a great space you can really optimize. I recommend this large organizer that extends across your back seat row, or these smaller collapsible trunk organizers.

Spotting Joshua Trees on a road trip through the desert

Silhouette of a Joshua Tree against the sky

Car Safety and Other Misc Items to Pack

When creating a Joshua Tree packing list, it’s always important to remember the safety items. At times, you may be out in a remote desert area, so it’s always best to be prepared. And there are some other miscellaneous and fun car items for your packing list here as well.

First Aid: A first aid kit is a must have for your car.
Roadside Emergencies: Keeping a roadside emergency kit in the car is great idea, as well as an emergency power station, just in case.
Powering Electronics: If you need more USB ports in your car, be sure to bring a USB 4-port power converter. Car power converters exist with regular US electronic outlets if needed.
Fun Stuff: Be sure to throw in some fun items as well, like a road tripping t-shirt or a road trip game.

Packing List for Inside Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is massive, so if you’re planning on driving through it or well into the middle of it, it’s best to make sure your packing list is ready and you have everything you need. Below I’ve listed some basic items to bring hiking, as well as some camping items for when you’re staying overnight at one of the park campgrounds.

Hiking at Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park with an insulated water cooler, a key item for a desert packing list — Hiking at Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park

If Taking a Hike in Joshua Tree National Park

There are a lot of great hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, ranging from easy-paced to strenuous. Depending on the type of hike you’re planning to do, you may need any or all of the following items.

The right backpack: Be sure to get a lightweight hiking day pack pack if going out for a long trek. An insulated cooler backpack may be best if heading out for a picnic lunch, or you may want to go all in with a picnic supplies backpack, which includes a picnic blanket and an insulated cooler wine pouch.
Plenty of water: Always add plenty of water to your Joshua Tree packing list. I recommend a hydroflask to keep your water cool and a can cooler to keep your canned beverages cool. To flavor up your water and make sure you get plenty of electrolytes, these electrolyte drink tablets are lightweight to pack and great for dropping into your water bottle.
Sun protection: Be sure to bring sunglasses, and protect your face with a baseball cap or fishing hat. Pack plenty of sunscreen, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen made for your face, and a good SPF lip balm.

Clothing made for desert hikes: Be sure to dress appropriately for the desert. Wear lightweight, breathable fabric and sturdy shoes. Hiking shoes are recommended, and preferably long pants to protect your legs from cacti, shrubs, and snakes.
First aid kit: A small first aid kit is always recommended for any Joshua Tree packing list, esecially if out for a hike. Scrapes, bites, or accidents are never expected, but it’s always best to be prepared.
Tech items: A back up power bank is a great idea in case your phone or other equipment needs a charge. A compass carabiner is a great tool to clip on your bag just in case. A chargeable pocket fan is fun for keeping cool while on the go, and a GoPro Camera is an exciting way to improve your Joshua Tree hiking photography.

Packing List for Camping at Joshua Tree National Park

There are several awesome campgrounds to choose from inside Joshua Tree National Park. Be sure to research the campground ahead of time to see which necessities you will need. Below are some camp sleeping and kitchen basics to get you started.

Desert camping with a cooler, insulated water bottle, beer, hat, and book — Relaxing on hammock in Joshua Tree

Campground Sleeping Items

Camping tent: Depending on the size of your group, there are various sizes to choose from. I love this 6 person Coleman tent with built-in lighting and a porch. For smaller sizes, I recommend this Coleman 2 person tent with sun cover.
Sleeping items: Sleeping bags and foldable sleeping mats, or, depending on the level of comfort your group requires, an airbed with built in pump.
Light: There are plenty of hanging light options for inside the tent. Be sure to also bring a small flashlight or headlamp for walking around at night.
Music: On every trip I recommend bringing a bluetooth speaker.

Boulder scrambling in Joshua Tree with sun protection — The giant boulders are one of my favorite photo spots in Joshua Tree

Campground Kitchen Items

Camp cookware set. These heavy duty pots and pans can go over the fire. It comes with camp utensils as well. I like these sets because they all pack together nicely into one compact bag.
Foldable camp kitchen. I think these are genius. This one contains a large, heat resistant surface, perfect for your pots and pans or camp stove. It has shelving for storage, a hook for a light, and a collapsible sink with drain. And they are easy to collapse for quick take down.
A good cooler. I have this Coleman heavy duty cooler and keeps things cold for several days.
Campfire roasting sticks. These are extendible and perfect for roasting s’mores or hotdogs over the campfire. One of the most fun items that I would recommend for a Joshua Tree packing list.
Camping stove. I use this Coleman model and I love it. It has two burners and folds closed for easy packing. Be sure bring propane for the camp stove.
Steel kettle with nesting cups. Nice for camping and hiking.

Cooking utensils and equipment. I recommend buying one of these cookware packs with carrying case. It includes so many things like spatulas, serving spoons, knives, tongs, a cutting board, bottle opener, gloves, and spice shakers. It helps take the guessing out of what kitchen accessory items to pack for Joshua Tree.
Paper plates if you want to limit the amount of dishes to wash.
Eating utensils. If you’re doing to do disposable, go compostable.
Coffee percolator that can be put over the fire. Don’t forget a pack of fun camping mugs.
Collapsible camping sink. Also doubles as a picnic basket.
Biodegradable Campsuds. Can be used on dishes, but is also multi-purpose and can be used on clothing, hands, or face.
Some foldable camp chairs. These camp chairs have a built-in insulated can cooler.

Relaxing in with a cooler and folding camp chair, essential items for a Joshua Tree camping list — Camping in Joshua Tree

Emergency and Survival Items

Hand crank device for radio, flashlight, and charging. Great for every day use, or to keep on hand for an emergency.
Plasma lighter. These are only needed for certain situations. They are flameless, rechargable, waterproof, windproof. Perfect for back up or survival situations.
Lifestraw personal water filter. These are small, easy to add to your packing list, and always good to have on hand in Joshua Tree just in case.
Multipurpose rope
Solar generator. Acts as an emergency power station with a bright light, and AC outlet, and 4 USB outlets.
Multi-use compact hatchet tool. Can also be used as a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, wire cutter, and pliers.
Pack of rain ponchos for adults and kids
Emergency thermal blankets
Biodegradable body wipes for keeping clean
Compact microfiber cooling towels

Pin it For Later: Joshua Tree Packing List

Explore More Joshua Tree

Planning a trip to Joshua Tree? Browse my helpful travel guides:

Take a step into the wild west with Things to Do in Pioneertown
Get tips on where, when, and how to Catch the Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden
Get some Instagram tips with my top Instagram Spots in Joshua Tree

In Joshua Tree

5 Reasons to Visit Keys View in Joshua Tree

Keys View is a panoramic viewpoint in Joshua Tree national park that is easily accessible for park visitors, and provides stunning views of the desert landscape below. It’s often called the best view in Joshua Tree, and is a must see on any Joshua Tree trip. Keys View puts you at such a high vantage point, that on clear days you can even see down to Mexico. There are so many reasons to visit Keys View when in Joshua tree, but I’ve listed 5 major ones below to help with your travel planning.

Keys View is the best viewpoint in Joshua Tree (the top reason to visit)

The desert landscape seen from Keys View stretches far into the distance (you can even see a mountain top in Mexico on clear days). This magnificent viewpoint is one of the best in Joshua Tree National Park. There is a designated viewing platform up top for visitors to stop and admire the views. Signs are posted up on the platform as well to help identify the landmarks, and get a bit more information on the desert views in front of you. Binoculars are recommended to be able to see them all. With the light and shadows ever changing the surrounding landscape, the experience at Keys View will be different each hour of the day. From Keys View you can see:

Palm Springs
Coachella Valley
The Salton Sea
Mount San Jacinto
Mount Gorgonio
Mount Signal (in Mexico!)

Desert landscape views from the overlook in Joshua Tree — Overlook at Keys View

Keys View is Easy to Access

For those on a road trip to Joshua tree or who are just driving through the national park, Keys View is a perfect stop because it easy so easily accessed. It is located on park maps and is easy to find. Be sure to grab a paper map on your way in or download an offline park map for areas with little to no cell service. There is a large parking lot and a paved hill heading up to the viewing platform. Keys View is one of the amazing locations in Joshua Tree National Park that can be reached without a hike.

Parking Lot and walking path at Keys View — Parking Lot and Paved Walking Path at Keys View

Witness an amazing Sunrise or Sunset (one of the most popular reasons to visit Keys View in Joshua Tree)

Keys View is beautiful any of time of day, but this spot is at its most spectacular during sunset or sunrise. Sunrise is the most popular visiting hour, when the light can be seen sinking into the desert horizon as the orange tones fade from the sky. Since sunset is the most popular time to visit, be sure to get there early to get yourself a parking spot and prime viewing spot. This is especially important for those looking to set up tripods for some sunset photography. If you’re looking for an alternative view, try arriving in the early hours of the morning to watch moon set as the sun slowly rises and warms up the desert. Sunrise is sure to much less crowded, any time of year.

5 Reasons to visit Keys View in Joshua Tree — Exploring the walking paths at Keys View

Keys View is the Trailhead for the Inspiration Peak Hike

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to see more beautiful Joshua Tree views, you can easily access the Inspiration Peak Hike from Keys View. Keep your eyes peeled for the trailhead. This 2 mile moderately-paced hike takes you out and back to Inspiration Peak, another stunning viewpoint of the desert below. The first part of the trail is a bit tricky to follow, so be sure to download an offline map. I like using apps like AllTrails for my hikes. As with any desert hike, be sure to bring sturdy athletic shoes, long pants, stick to the marked trail, and watch out for snakes. If traveling with lots of supplies, like food, first aid, or camera equipment, I recommend one of these day backpacks for hiking.

Parking lot and visitors on the viewing platform — Visitors on the viewing platform

Keys View has Major Photography Opportunities

If you’re looking for photography opportunities at Keys View, be sure to avoid the harsh light of midday. The sunlight at noon really washes out the shadows and colors of the desert landscape. The view is still awe-inspiring, but your photos will be much better in the morning or early evening when there are some shadows and definition in the desert below. There is plenty of room at Keys View as well, so feel free to bring your photography equipment and let your creativity run wild. New to photography? I recommend one of these photography starter kits. Or to see what I use for my website and travel blogging, check out my related article on Travel Blogging Photography Gear.

Information landmark signs at the overlook

Pin it for Later: 5 Reasons to Visit Keys View in Joshua Tree

Explore More Joshua Tree

Check out my related articles on this beautiful and crazy desert down:

Witness a sunrise like no other at the Cholla Cactus Garden in the middle of the national park.
Explore the infamous Pioneertown. Get tips and things to do in this high desert town, originally built as a wild west movie set.
Get tips on what to bring with my Joshua Tree Packing List
Insta crazy? Get my tips on the best Instagram photo spots in Joshua Tree.

In Joshua Tree

Instagrammable Photo Spots in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is a city full of free souls and delightfully bizarre desert experiences. In this town, I found so many amazing Instagrammable photo spots that really allowed me to capture the beauty and essence of Joshua Tree. Here is a list of top, iconic images that will no doubt bring joy to your Instagram followers and family. Keep in mind, however, that sometimes it’s between the iconic sights where the true photo gems lie.

_{This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. For more info, please see my}_{affiliate disclaimer}_.

Cholla Cactus Garden (My favorite Instagrammable Photo Spot in Joshua Tree)

This garden of miniature Cholla Cacti, also known as teddy bear cacti, is where magic happens every morning at sunrise. At a certain time of day after the sun peaks over the mountain horizon, the cacti glow a brilliant orange. This color spreads across the garden, illuminating cacti as far as you can see, which creates the most magical backdrop for Instagram photos and desert photography in general. For more tips on when to visit, what to bring, and what to avoid at this spot, be sure to check out my article on catching the Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden.

Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park

Getting to the Cholla Cactus Garden

The Cholla Cactus Garden is located in the center of Joshua Tree National Park. It’s right off the main Pinto Basin Road, and marked with a trailhead sign, which leads to the parking lot. Since it is in the center of the park, prepare for a bit of driving time to get there. Depending on which park entrance you are using, it may be up to a 40 minute drive to reach this Instagram photo spot. There is an entrance fee to get into Joshua Tree National Park that you can pay upon arrival.

Instagrammable photo spots in joshua tree: cholla cactus garden sunrise — Be sure to take some photos on the boardwalk!

Pioneertown

Pioneertown is a step back in time. Embrace a trip to the Wild West in this unique and Instagram-worthy town, originally designed in the 1940’s as a live-in 1800’s movie set for western films. There are plenty of Instagrammable things to do in Pioneertown during which you will find the best photo spots. While some storefronts are still movie set facades, some are actual shops, including a general store, pottery shop, and restaurants.

Getting to Pioneertown

You can find this Instagram photo haven at 53626 Mane St, Pioneertown, CA 92268. Located perfectly close to Joshua Tree, it’s a really easy spot to add in to your road trip itinerary. There are plenty of dirt parking lots located nearby all the shops. I recommend finding the nearest spot you can, and just wandering the area to find the best photography inspiration.

MazAmar Art Pottery building in Pioneertown, Joshua Tree, California — MazAmar Art Pottery building

Joshua Tree Saloon (one of the most entertaining Instagrammable photo spots in Joshua Tree)

Located in downtown Joshua Tree, a close drive from the West entrance of Joshua Tree National Park is the Joshua Tree Saloon. This place is exactly the saloon you want it to be. The old wooden saloon decor on the outside is just a hint at the fun that awaits inside. Throughout the saloon and outdoor seating area, you’ll find many Instagrammable photo spots one would only find in a saloon, like old kitchen and farm equipment, old signs on the walls, and brightly colored trucks and buses with which to give your best pose.

Getting to Joshua Tree Saloon

Located at 61835 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, this instagram photo spot is a perfect location to add to your trip, because the food and drinks here are amazing. The staff were very welcoming and friendly, and were happy to make recommendations about the menu. The saloon is in a great central location, and is nearby some great gift shops as well.

Keys View (the most panoramic Instagrammable photo spot in Joshua Tree)

Keys View is a wonderful vantage point that overlooks a beautiful, panoramic landscape below. From this spot you can see a mountain in Mexico, Coachella Valley, the Salton Sea, Palm Springs, and the San Andreas Fault line. Keys View view is notoriously one of the best spots to see the sunset in the national park. Come here for some morning hiking and photography, and then come back for sunset and see the park in golden light.

Instagram photo spot at keys view — Panoramic and windy views at Keys View

Getting to Keys View

Keys View is the highest point in the park, and is labeled on all GPS maps simply as Keys View without an address. It has clear signage on the park roads as you get close, and it is clearly labeled on the paper park maps. If you want a paper map, you can get a free one from the ranger at the entrance booth on your way in. Keys View is easily accessible by car, making it a nice quick opportunity to grab some Instagram photos. There is plenty of parking at the trailhead, and it is a quick walk up a paved hill to get to the viewing area.

With a Joshua Tree (one of the most obvious Instagrammable photo spots in Joshua Tree)

The heart, soul, and namesake of this city is the Joshua Tree. These infamous trees with their multiple, wacky branches extending and bending in all directions, make perfect backdrops for Instagram photos. They are quirky and have a ton of personality. And did you know the Joshua Tree isn’t actually a tree? It’s technically a giant succulent.

Finding the perfect Insta-worthy Joshua Trees

Joshua Trees are located all throughout the park, so there are plenty of photo opportunities to catch them in different light and against different backdrops. Good luck picking just one to photograph, as there are so many different shapes and sizes to these trees!

Rock Scrambling

There are some amazingly massive boulders in Joshua Tree. Capturing these rocks in the right light will get you some beautiful orange tones in your photos. Catching some Joshua Trees in front of near these boulders would give you a classic desert backdrop for your Instagram shots. Climbing on top of them may get you some great views as well! Morning or afternoon is most ideal, and golden hour is the absolute best. Careful with your steps on these boulders, and be sure to bring a flashlight if you’re staying out past sunset.

Finding the perfect boulders

There are plenty of great Instagrammable boulder areas in Joshua Tree National Park, but one classic set of boulders is called Jumbo Rocks. This photo spot is easy to access with parking nearby: Jumbo Rocks Campground, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277. On your drive through the park, you will no doubt see tons of boulder areas of which you can stop and take photos.

Skull Rock (one of the most popular Instagrammable photo spots in Joshua Tree)

A Boulder naturally shaped like a skull, skull rock in Joshua Tree National Park is a visitor favorite. Erosion over time has caused two eye sockets to appear on the rock, making it look like a giant skull emerging from the earth. For the best light and to avoid midday crowds and heat, be sure to visit this Instagrammable photo spot during the morning or afternoon.

Getting to Skull Rock

Located along the 1.7 mile hiking trail loop called Skull Rock Trail, the rock is easy to find on foot. There is clear signage from the main road and parking on site. The trailhead is right across from the Jumbo Rocks Campground: Jumbo Rocks Campground, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277.

Pin it for Later: Instagrammable Photo Spots in Joshua Tree

Save to Pinterest: Instagrammable Photo Spots in Joshua Tree

Explore More Joshua Tree

Get tips on how to capture the perfect sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park
Explore the Wild West with 5 Things to Do in Pioneertown
Get ideas on what to bring with my Joshua Tree Packing List

Photography Equipment Used in These Photos

Camera

Cell phone cameras are amazing these days, but if you’re looking for a good camera recommendation, I use a Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera and I love it. It’s lightweight, it has an awesome mix of settings, and includes an instant download to your cellphone for easy Instagram posting on the go.

Tripod

I recently purchased this lightweight camera tripod and I take it everywhere! It’s perfect for getting group shots or shots of yourself if you’re exploring solo. It collapses pretty easily and comes with a carrying case. There are also tripods that are compatible with cameras and phones, like this phone tripod stand. Getting a tripod is definitely an photography game changer!

Other Photography Gear

Check out the rest of my Travel Blogging Photography Gear for tips and recommendations on my favorite products.

In Joshua Tree

Things to Do in Pioneertown

Walking down Mane Street in Pioneertown is like stepping into the Wild West. The hot sand crunches beneath your boots as the sun beats down in your eyes. The only things in sight beyond this tiny, wooden strip of a town are the lonely desert mountains in the distance. From the quaint Pioneertown Motel to the infamous local bar, Pappy and Harriet’s, Pioneertown has everything a cowboy or cowgirl could need. Here is a list of classic things to do in this Wild West town.

Get some BBQ at Pappy and Harriet’s (one of the most popular things to do in Pioneertown)

Get your BBQ fix at local favorite, Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneer Palace. Expect to find this place packed on summer weekends. With mesquite BBQ and killer cocktails served in mason jars, Pappy and Harriet’s makes you feel right at home. Be sure to catch some live music here as well. Serving as a venue to local and famous artists, this Pioneer Palace books rock, indie, and country all year round.

Pappy and Harriet’s BBQ Restaurant and bar in Joshua Tree — Pappy and Harriet’s Restaurant, bar, and venue

Shop at the Pioneertown General Store

Previously located in the iconic red Likker Barn, the Pioneertown General Store can now be found in the more centrally located Saddlery building. This place is a gem you can’t miss. Stop in this shop for Pioneertown souvenirs, western attire, and vintage clothing.

Likker Barn Joshua Tree — Find the general store in an old western storefront

Saddlery general store in Pioneertown Joshua tree — Find the general store in an old western storefront

Stay at the Pioneertown Motel (one of the most immersive things to do in Pioneertown)

The charming Pioneertown Motel was built in 1946 to host movie stars and filmmakers on Wild West movie sets. This space currently combines modern southwestern decor combined with classic Wild West nostalgia. The property has 19 rooms and is home to the newly restored Red Dog Saloon, serving western cocktails and delicious tacos.

Pick up some local art at the Pottery shop

In the beautiful pottery building you will find MazAmar Art Pottery, a shop that sells handcrafted and functional pottery items including Joshua Tree mugs, pots, and tiles. They feature the work of local Pioneertown artists, and the pieces are absolutely stunning. If looking for things to do to do support local artists, don’t pass up this chance to take home a creation from the high desert.

Walk the Western Movie Set (one of the most historic things to do in Pioneertown)

One of the most fun and historic things to do in Pioneertown is to simply walk past the shops and admire the wild western feel of the place. Built in the 1940’s by actor Dick Curtis, Pioneertown was designed to be a live-in Wild West movie set. Hundreds of westerns have been filmed here, and it infamously hosted the Gene Autry show for 5 years. Many of the storefronts are Wild West facades that add to the photogenic charm of Pioneertown.

Bank and hotel facade in pioneertown joshua tree — Wild West Storefronts on Mane Street

Pin it for Later: Things to Do in Pioneertown

Save to Pinterest: Things to Do in Pioneertown

Looking for more wild west gems?

See the sunrise over the desert at Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park
Read my intro to California’s Alabama Hills, the Wild West of Hollywood

In Joshua Tree

Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Waking up early to see the sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park was an experience to remember. We set out in the dark, driving through the national park as hints of color entered the navy blue sky. Our headlights illuminated coyotes and other night creatures scurrying down the side of the road. The iconic silhouettes of the Joshua Trees stood out against the sky, a wide open backdrop now changing colors amongst wispy desert clouds.

Eventually we reached the cactus garden. We ventured out into into the dirt trails, the air still and cool. Absolute silence welcomed us as we found a spot to wait for the warm sun to reveal itself over the mountain ridge.

The colors behind the mountain turned bright red before the crimson sun slowly made its appearance. Little hints of orange began appearing at the base of the cacti, like an orchestra warming up for a performance. Within minutes, a glowing blanket of orange spread across the field as far as I could see. This was what I had waited for. To be witness to this daily celebration of morning light in the middle of the desert.

Sunrise on the boardwalk at Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree — Boardwalk at Cholla Cactus Garden

^{This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. For more info, please see my affiliate disclaimer.}

Get there early for sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Based on the time of year you’re visiting Joshua Tree National Park, plan ahead by looking up the exact time of sunrise. You’re going to be waking up extremely early, but it is so worth it. I am definitely not a morning person, and I don’t regret being up early for this experience at all. Plan to be driving in the dark, as the Cholla Cactus Garden is located just about in the center of the park.

Drive time to Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise varies based on park entrance

If entering from the popular West Entrance, the drive is about 45-55 minutes.
Visitors from the North Entrance can expect a drive time of about 20 minutes.
If entering from the South Entrance (Cottonwood Visitor Center), the drive is about 30-40 minutes.

Cholla Gardens Hiking Entrance Sign in Joshua Tree National Park — Trail sign across from parking lot at Cholla Cactus Garden

Parking for Cholla Cactus Garden at Sunrise

There is a convenient parking lot right next to the Cholla Cactus Garden. If you’re arriving early at sunrise, there will be plenty of spaces available. I arrived at about 15 minutes before sunrise, and there were only a couple of other cars in the lot. There are some nice information signs around the parking lot, giving info on the Cholla Cacti and the various animals that frequent the area, including the brave cactus wren.

Trail Entrance and Location Information Sign

See the sunrise over the mountains

Find yourself a good spot and wait for sunrise. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, be sure to dress appropriately because nighttime in the desert can get very cold. The sun rises from behind the mountains, giving it a perfect entrance before shining down on the park. The sunrise I saw lit up the sky and clouds in an orange glow at first, before emerging from behind the mountains in a fiery desert red. The glowing bright red was absolutely brilliant as it slowly rose into the sky.

Wait for the Cholla Cactus Garden to glow at sunrise

When I visited, I went with the intention of seeing the Cholla Cactus glow at sunrise, like I had read about and had seen in pictures. I imagined the sun would shine right through the cactus the moment it peaked over the mountains, but I was disappointed to see the field of cacti not glowing right away. What I learned is that you have to wait for it.

Wait for it…

About an hour after the sun first made its appearance, the cacti began to glow. It was slow at first, with some hints of orange appearing at the base of the cacti. I had been waiting so long that I thought the changes in color were part of my imagination. About 10 minutes later I was no longer imagining it, as I found myself now surrounded by the glowing little cacti. The entire field of green Cholla Cacti, as far as I could see, was outlined in a luminous orange.

Glowing teddy bear cactus at Cholla Cactus Garden — Glowing teddy bear cacti at Cholla Cactus Garden

Stick to the walking trails

There are plenty of trails in the Cholla Cactus Garden, protecting both you and the garden. The trail entrance is clearly marked from the parking lot, and it splits off into other trails in the middle of the garden. I thought this was fantastic because there were plenty of areas to explore during the sunrise, while waiting for the cacti to glow. Tip: be sure to visit the boardwalk in the middle of the garden. It makes for a perfect photo spot.

Do Not Touch the Cholla Cactus

The cholla cactus is also known as a Teddy Bear Cactus because it is really cute and has a fuzzy apppearance. Spoiler alert: They are not fuzzy. They are extremely spiky and painful to humans and animals. In fact, there are signs at the parking lot entrance that say dogs are not allowed in the garden. The chances of them getting hurt are far too great, so be sure to leave your pets at home for their own safety.

Warning sign for safety at trail entrance

The cholla cactus is also known as the jumping cactus because of its ability to sneak up on you, and, before you know it, it has somehow latched part of itself onto you. I didn’t believe this at first, but after a watching a few online videos, I saw how if you get too close to the cactus, the spines stick you and actually detach a part of the cactus from its stem joints. The spines have tiny barbs, and can be very painful to remove. I definitely made sure to steer clear of the cacti when walking around.

Fore more tips on staying safe during your trip to Joshua Tree National Park, check out the safety page on the NPS website.

Sunrise Photography and Photoshoot at Cholla Cactus Garden

Watch out for bees

There are big signs at the Cholla Cactus Garden that warn you to watch out for bees. If you have an allergy to bee stings, this may not be the place for you. There wasn’t much bee activity during my early morning visit in September, but I’m not sure how it gets later in the day. I did experience a bee buzzing around me a few different times, but they left pretty quickly and didn’t bother me. The garden was absolutely silent, so luckily the buzzing bees can be heard, helping you steer clear.

Warning sign for bees in the Joshua tree national park

Tips for sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden

Here are some tips and suggested items to bring with your on your sunrise excursion. For more ideas on what to bring, be sure to check out my comprehensive Joshua Tree Packing List.

Bring coffee. I had rushed out of my Airbnb in the morning, downing only a half cup of coffee before taking off. As I stood there waiting for the sunrise, I wished I had brought some. I saw a couple walking by with steaming mugs, and it looked so good!
Dress appropriately. Based on the time of year you choose to visit, the desert can get surprisingly cold at night. And if you’re planning on staying past sunrise, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. There is no shade in the cactus garden.
Wear closed-toed shoes or boots. Just in case you do come into contact with a cholla cactus, you certainly want to protect your feet. There are loose cactus spines scattered around in the dirt as well, which you don’t want in your sandals.
Bring a first aid kit if you’re accident prone. Best to be prepared.
Bring a camera. Sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden is a magical experience, so be sure take plenty of photos. I used my Sony A6000 Mirrorless DSLR Camera. To read more about my favorite photo equipment, check out my Travel Blogging Photography Gear.
Bring a flashlight if you’re planning to get there in the dark. I got there about 15 minutes before the scheduled sunrise, and it was light enough that I didn’t need a flashlight. But if you’re planning to arrive extra early, prepare that it may be dark.

Pin it for Later: Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Save to Pinterest: Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Interested in Other Amazing Sunrise Locations?

Experience the otherworldly Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats in Death Valley
Check a sand dune sunrise off your bucket list by Catching a Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley
See the sun rise over the majestic Yosemite Valley with my Ultimate Yosemite Valley Travel Guide