Did you know that one of the best times to visit Joshua Tree is in the winter? That’s because the daytime temperatures are mild, getting around 60F (15.5 Celsius), making it perfect for hiking and climbing. On the other hand, the sun goes down much earlier than in other seasons, at around 4:30 pm PCT, allowing plenty of time to stargaze in the Milky Way. The temperatures can get below freezing, so pack warm jackets to enjoy our outdoor firepit lounge.
1. Hiking and Climbing Joshua Tree in December
There are more than 120 hike trails in Joshua Tree, from easy to difficult levels, with stunning views. A great one to watch a magical sunset is the Arch Rock Trail. It is considered an easy level with about 88ft of elevation and 1.4 miles long. There is also Skull Rock that you can see from the road. The trail is only 1.1 miles, and Hidden Valley trails. It is a breathtaking view of the park, only a 1-mile loop.
Another historical trail you can’t miss out on is Barker Dan.
Many years ago, the Joshua tree was home to many tribes known as Serrano, Chemehuevi, Mojave Cahuilla, and Mojave. When hiking Barker Dan, you can see 2,000 + years old petroglyphs carved into the rocks like in the photos below.
Click here to check all the trails.
2. Sunset Views
All places in Joshua Tree allow you to watch a magical cotton candy sunset, but if we have to pick one, it would be the Key’s View. The San Andreas Fault, Mount San Jacinto, Gorgonio, and even the Coachella Valley can be seen. It is only 0.3 miles with 13 feet elevation, a very easy loop. Because it can get a little crowded, you can hike 1.9 miles more to Inspiration Peak, where you won’t see as many people.
The Arch Rock is another great spot, especially if you want to stay longer in the park to watch the Milky Way. The Rock is about 30 feet tall and is located near site 13 on the Joshua Tree National Park road.
3. Stargazing
Winter in the desert of California is perfect for Stargazing. You will be amazed by how close you can see the Milky Way. And because it gets dark earlier in December, there will be plenty of time to stargaze.
You can also bring your own telescope to see it or use one we have in our home.
4. Sky’s the Limit Observatory & Nature Center
This is a must-go place. The campus is always open to the public. However, the Telescope, the Dome, and the restrooms are only open when an event occurs. You might find a volunteer docent on campus Saturday mornings, usually from 10 am to noon, to set up the solar cope and the Orrery tours.
You must see two other interesting things: the meditation garden and the Solar Calendar/Sundial by the artist Ben Allanoff.
Check their website for more details and events calendars.
5. Visit the Wonderland Ranch and Wall Street Mill in Twentynine Palms
This traditional attraction from before Joshua Tree became a popular spot for hiking and a great reminder of the park’s past pioneers, the Miners. This place is a historical mark of the Wild West and the dispute to access silver and gold. It is also known as the murder memorial. To get there, you need to take the Wall Street Mill Trail.
Click here to learn more.
6. Amboy Crater National Naturel Landmark
The Amboy Crater is in one of the youngest volcanic fields in the United States. It is about 250 feet high and 1,500 feet in diameter. It became a National Park in 1973 and is recognized for its geological significance.
On the right side of Amboy Crater, the basaltic lava poured out over 24 square miles. It contains lava lakes, tubes, sinks, and a massive basalt flow.
The temperatures over there can get very hot, given the volcanic rocks. Make sure you take plenty of water.
The distance from our home is about 41 minutes. Click here to learn more.
Desert Trip Essentials
This one is to help you with some tips to pack the essentials for your trip.
Remember that the desert is very dry and likely to crack your lips, so hydration is a must. Bring a good chapstick and sunscreen, and drink lots of water.
The night in the desert is magical, as described in the stargazing portion above, but it gets very cold. Bring a warm jacket and a beanie.
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
And yeah, marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate to make s’mores by the fire.
We hope you like our suggestions. Share it with your friends, leave a comment, and check out our availability to stay in our beautiful home.
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