We spent the entire month of January relaxing in sunny Joshua Tree. The best way to describe it was definitely "restorative". We'd eat and read outside during the day. Most evenings, we'd get in a workout and then enjoy the sunset from our hot tub - usually accompanied by a nice glass of wine. Sometimes, we'd even get a fire going in our fire pit.
The skies were so dark that the view of the stars was just incredible. We even downloaded an app to helped us spot certain constellations and planets.
Since our place was 15 minutes down a dirt road (literally), we only really ventured out on weekends - hitting Joshua Tree National Park a bunch, seeing other quirky attractions throughout the area, and eating some really yummy food!
Joshua Tree National Park
Our favorite trails & spots through the park were:
Hidden Valley Nature Trail - this was a relatively flat trail that could be easily walked in a couple of hours, but we decided to head off the beaten path and scramble up to the tops of a few different rock formations.
49 Palms Oasis Trail - This trail was no joke! Basically straight up and down a couple of times each way. But you are rewarded with a lovely desert oasis, complete with palm trees and water holes.
Arch Rock Nature Trail - Our favorite area in the entire park! If you park near the White Tank campground, it's a super easy walk to the "spine" and "arch rock". This would also be a fabulous place to camp during non-COVID times as well.
Cholla Cactus Garden - Another easy, flat trail. I've heard this is a great spot for sunrise, but we enjoyed it in the early morning as well. It really looked like the fuzzy cactus were glowing!
Skull Rock - Right off the road, which means lots of people! Even so, still a cool spot to snap a photo.
Hall of Horrors - If you're a rock climber, this is THE spot. We walked around and saw lots of people with their crash pads. Also, a great spot to see some beautiful (and old) Joshua Trees!
Favorite Activities
Pioneertown - It's a quick drive north into the mountains to see this spot that was used as a set in many western films. We walked around and grabbed lunch from Pappy & Harriet's for a fun afternoon trip!
Joshua Tree's quirky attractions - Joshua Tree town is just a great place to stop. Exploring places like the Crochet Museum, Art Queen, and various vintage shops make for a fun afternoon and a good chance to see the "high desert art".
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum - Wow, we definitely got sent the wrong direction, but you can get here without being worried your car might get stuck in the sand. It's free (but donations are encouraged) and dog-friendly! Everything is made from "junk", so a nice way to see this transformed into art.
Saturday Artisan Market - There are a few different farmer's markets & art markets in Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and Twentynine Palms, but the best art one was definitely the Saturday Mercado in Joshua Tree. Lots of local artisans!
Rock and Wine Shop - Exactly what it sounds like - a great selection of wine (although a bit pricey), and lots of crystals and cute knickknacks.
Favorite Eats
Frontier Cafe - Fresh and delicious food with lots of vegan and vegetarian options.
Natural Sisters Cafe - Also vegetarian/vegan-friendly food. Their granola was absolutely amazing!
Campbell Hill Bakery - Our favorite place we ate in the area, but sadly, no photos! We got fresh bread to go, pastries, cookies, and daily specials like hamburgers & pizza.
Farmer's Market in 29 Palms - We got breakfast from a Mexican place that was delicious, but most of the booths had long lines. Always a good sign!
We will never forget those desert sunsets (or the booming blasts from the neighboring Marine Base).
