Joshua Tree National Park & Surrounding Area

A Complete Guide to Eating, Drinking, and Fun! 🪨🌌 We celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary 💍 with a road trip from LA to Joshua Tree National Park—letting the starry skies of Joshua Tree bear witness to our love 🌌. ❤️ Heart Rock and Arch Rock Trail – Since it was our anniversary, we made a special trip to see the heart-shaped rock! The trail also passes by Arch Rock. For parking, consider the roadside spots near White Tank Campground—it’s half a mile less walking than the official lot. Here are three more short trails we recommend, perfect for families with kids: 🌴 Hidden Valley Nature Trail – The park’s most popular trail, surrounded by giant boulders and clusters of Joshua trees. 💧 Barker Dam Nature Trail – A short loop passing by a historic dam, rock art, and classic desert scenery. 🌵 Cholla Cactus Garden Trail – Get up close to fields of teddy bear cholla cacti—especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Don’t-miss roadside spots (no hiking needed!) include Cap Rock and Skull Rock 💀—the latter’s skull-shaped stone is one of the park’s iconic landmarks. 🌅 Keys View – The top spot for sunset views! Golden light washes over the Coachella Valley, making the desert feel both peaceful and majestic. Restaurant Recommendations 🍴 Yucca Valley: 🥂 The Copper Room – A retro-style restaurant and bar near the airport, known for classic American dishes and an aviation-themed vibe. Live music at night! 🍔 La Copine – A popular spot praised for creative American cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. Joshua Tree: ☕️ Joshua Tree Coffee Company – Hand-roasted coffee beans, rich and aromatic—beloved by tourists and locals alike. 🍳 Crossroads Cafe – A classic American brunch spot with plenty of options and a cozy, casual vibe. 29 Palms: 🍗 The Rib Co – An American BBQ joint with juicy ribs and hearty sides. All three towns have plenty of affordable vacation rentals—many with backyards perfect for starguing and Milky Way viewing! ✨ Have you visited Joshua Tree? What’s your favorite trail or spot to watch the stars? Share your tips below! 👇💫 #JoshuaTree #JoshuaTreeNationalPark #LAWeekend #StarrySkies #LosAngeles #PalmSprings #StargazingInJoshuaTree #JoshuaTreeGuide #JoshuaTreeNP #DesertVibes #NatureTrails #FamilyFriendly #AnniversaryTrip #RoadTripGoals #DesertEats #CozyRentals #SunsetViews #CactusGarden #AdventureAwaits #TravelInspo