🌵 Top Must-See Landmarks in Joshua Tree National Park 🌅

#landmarks Welcome to Joshua Tree National Park — where the Mojave meets the Colorado Desert, and the landscape feels like a dream. From iconic rock formations to historic trails and surreal vistas, these are the landmarks you can’t miss on your desert adventure: 🪨 1. Skull Rock 📍 Along Park Boulevard 💀 A naturally eroded granite rock that looks just like a skull — and it’s right off the road! Great for photos and short exploration. 🌄 2. Keys View 📍 Southwest end of the park 👀 One of the park’s most breathtaking panoramic views — see the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and (on clear days) even Mexico! 🌳 3. Cholla Cactus Garden 📍 Pinto Basin Road 🌵 A magical sunrise or golden hour spot. The “teddy bear” cholla cacti glow in the desert light — but don’t touch, they’re spiky! ⛺ 4. Hidden Valley 📍 West Entrance 🪵 A favorite short trail and picnic spot surrounded by massive rock walls. Legend says cattle rustlers once used this secret valley as a hideout. 🖐️ 5. Jumbo Rocks & Arch Rock 📍 Near White Tank Campground 🪨 Giant granite boulders perfect for scrambling and stargazing. Don’t miss Arch Rock, a natural arch that’s ideal for sunset photos. 🏛️ 6. Barker Dam 📍 Barker Dam Loop Trail 💧 A rare desert water feature, plus rock art and desert wildlife. Come in the morning for peaceful reflections and better wildlife spotting. 🌅 7. Ryan Mountain 📍 Central Joshua Tree 🥾 A 3-mile hike to one of the highest peaks in the park, with panoramic views that stretch for miles. Great for sunrise or sunset hikes. 📌 Travel Tips: Best time to visit: Fall to Spring (cooler temps and clearer skies) Bring water, sun protection, and snacks — services are limited Stay after dark — Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park, and the stargazing is next-level 🌌