National Park Service Visitor Guide U.S. Department of the Interior

Joshua Tree National Park

A planning guide for visitors to Joshua Tree National Park

Fall 2007

Planning Your Fall Visit IN THIS ISSUE

Entrance Fees even for a day trip. And, if you will be attending an evening Information 2 The park entrance fee is $15 per vehicle. It is good for seven program or camping, you will want to have additional warm Keys View Road 3 days. The cost of a Joshua Tree annual pass is $30. If you clothing to layer on, including gloves and a hat. A graph of the plan to visit several parks or other federal lands this year, an average monthly temperatures is located on page nine. Desert Glue 3 interagency annual pass is available for $80. Campgrounds 4 Keys View Road Campgrounds Although currently under construction (see page three What To See And Do 4 Black Rock, Cottonwood, and Indian Cove campsites are $15 for information about when the road is open during the Backcountry Roads 4 per night and Belle, Hidden Valley, Jumbo Rocks, Ryan, and construction period), this popular destination, perched on Backcountry Camping, White Tank campsites cost $10 per night. Reservations are the crest of the Little San Bernardino Mountains, provides available for Black Rock and Indian Cove and for all group panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and is well worth the Hiking, & Horseback Riding 5 sites. See page four for additional information. 20-minute drive from Park Boulevard down Keys View Road. Black Rock Canyon 5 The lookout is wheelchair accessible, or take the .2-mile-loop Ranger Programs trail up the ridge for especially nice views (see photo above). Park Map 6 Ranger-guided walks, talks, and evening programs are a good Self-guiding Trails 7 way to increase your appreciation of the plants, animals, and natural and cultural features of Joshua Tree National Hiking Trails 7 Park. Weekly schedules are available at entrance stations Desert Fan Palm Oases 8 and visitor centers and are posted on campground bulletin Cottonwood Spring 8 boards. We also post them on our website: www.nps.gov/jotr. Weather 9 For Kids Star Gazing 9 Kids, stop at an entrance station or visitor center and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet. Complete the activities inside and Rock Formations 9 return it to a ranger at an entrance station or visitor center. Joshua Trees 10 When you've finished, you'll receive a Joshua Tree Junior Ranger badge. Desert Institute Classes 10 Publications 11 Fall Weather When we hear "desert," we often think "hot." That is not Rating Climbs 12 always the case however. Joshua Tree's fall and winter The Trickster 12 temperatures can be quite chilly, especially after the sun sets or on a windy day. So don't forget to bring your jacket, Learn more about this issue's featured animal on Page 12. VISITOR CENTER HOURS Oasis 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Joshua Tree 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cottonwood 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Black Rock October - May Daily (except Fridays) 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fridays Noon - 8 p.m.

EMERGENCIES Call 909-383-5651 or dial 911 or contact a park ranger. Cell LLZZ% e:> 'sui|ed aumAiua/vu phone coverage in the park is 3Aup >ped leuopeu S8tn>A spotty. sped leuopeu aajj enqsof

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA — Important information accessibility environment tures as they lose their fear of humans. not enter old mine workings. The nature trails at Bajada, Cap Rock, Two deserts, two large ecosystems It is also illegal! and the Oasis of Mara are accessible. whose characteristics are determined take only pictures Keys View is accessible and Site 122 at primarily by elevation, come together at leave no trace Over 1.25 million people visit Joshua Jumbo Rocks Campground is wheel­ Joshua Tree National Park. Below 3,000 During your visit please pick up trash Tree National Park each year. If each chair accessible. feet, the Colorado Desert encompasses around campgrounds and trails. Your visitor took just one rock or one plant, the eastern part of the park and features actions will inspire other park visitors. the park, our national heritage, would all terrain vehicles natural gardens of ocotillo and cholla soon be gone. Removal, disturbance, ATVs may not be used in the park. cactus. The higher, moister, and slightly lost & found destruction, or disfigurement of any­ cooler Mojave Desert is the special Report lost, and turn in found, items at thing in the park is unlawful. bicycling habitat of the Joshua tree. Joshua tree any visitor center or ranger station. Lost Bicycling is permitted on public roads, forests occur in the western half of the articles will be returned if found. trash both paved and dirt, but not on trails. park, which also includes some of the Our dry desert climate cannot quickly There are no bicycle paths and many off-road driving most interesting geologic displays found decompose such things as orange peels, roads are narrow, so ride cautiously. Vehicles, including bicycles, are prohib­ in California's deserts. In addition, five apple cores, egg shells, and other picnic ited off established roads. The desert fan palm oases dot the park, indicat­ remains. Loose paper blows into bushes campfires ecosystem is fragile. Off-road driving ing those few areas where water occurs creating an unsightly mess, and plastic Campfires are permitted in camp­ and riding creates ruts, upsets delicate naturally and where wildlife abounds. six-pack rings can strangle wildlife. grounds and in picnic areas where fire drainage patterns, compacts the soil, Dispose of your trash in a responsible and leaves visual scars for years. Plants grates are provided. Campfires are not entrance fees manner and recycle whatever you can. are crushed and uprooted. Wildlife allowed in the backcountry. Collecting Admission to the park is $15 per vehicle shelters are destroyed, and food and vegetation, living or dead, is prohibited, and is good for seven consecutive days. vehicle laws water supplies are altered or obliterated. so bring firewood. A Joshua Tree Pass may be purchased Park roads are narrow and winding. for $30 and a Federal Lands Pass, which Some areas are congested. Speed limits climate is good for all federal recreation sites, overnight parking are there for your safety and well-being. Days are typically clear with less than costs $80. Both are good for 12 months. There is no overflow parking in the State and federal vehicle laws apply 25 percent humidity. Temperatures are A Senior Pass may be purchased by any park, at visitor centers, or park head­ within the park. most comfortable in the spring and fall, U.S. citizen 62 or older for $10, and it is quarters. Unattended vehicles may not with an average high/low of 85°F and good for life. be parked outside of campgrounds and visitor activities 50°F respectively. Winter brings cooler backcountry boards between 10 p.m. Ranger-led programs are offered on the days, around 60°F, and freezing nights. firearms and weapons and 6 a.m. weekends from mid-October through It occasionally snows at higher eleva­ Firearms, including fireworks, traps, mid-December and from mid-February parking tions. Summers are hot, over—some­ bows, BB guns, paint-ball guns, and through May. Schedules are available at Park roads, even the paved roads, are times well over—100°F during the day slingshots are not allowed in the park. visitor centers, at entrance stations, and and not cooling much below 75°F until narrow, winding, and have soft, sandy on campground bulletin boards. the early hours of the morning. food, lodging, services shoulders. Accidents occur when There are no concessions within the visitors stop along the road to admire a visitor centers commercial filming park. However, surrounding communi­ view or make a picture. There are many The Oasis Visitor Center is located in pullouts and parking lots, so wait until When filming or photography involves ties can fulfill most visitor needs. Con­ Twentynine Palms and is open 8 a.m. to you get to one before stopping. advertising a product or service, the use tact local chambers of commerce for 5 p.m. The Joshua Tree Visitor Center, of models, sets, props, or the use of a information. Their contact information located in Joshua Tree Village, is also pets restricted site, a film permit is required. is listed on page six of this publication. open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Cottonwood While pets are allowed in the park, their Visitor Center serves the southern day-use and restricted areas food storage activities are restricted. They must be on entrance to the park and is open from Some areas within the park are privately Store food in hard-sided containers or a leash at all times and cannot be more 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Black Rock Nature than 100 feet from a road, picnic area, owned; others protect wildlife or his­ in your vehicle to prevent ravens, coy­ Center, located in Black Rock Camp­ or campground; they are prohibited torical sites. Entering these areas is pro­ otes, and other wildlife from eating it. ground, is open October through May. hibited. Day-use areas are set aside to from trails, and they must never be left protect sensitive populations of wildlife. getting to the park unattended—not even in a vehicle. wildflowers They are closed from dusk to dawn. The park is located about 140 miles Spring blooming periods vary with east of Los Angeles via 1-10. Entrances potable water elevation, temperature, and the amount dehydration to the park are located off CA HWY 62 Water is available at the visitor center of moisture in the soil. You can get cur­ It is easy to become dehydrated in arid (Twentynine Palms Highway), at the in Twentynine Palms, at Black Rock rent information on the park website: desert environments. Even if you only towns of Joshua Tree and Twentynine and Cottonwood campgrounds, at the www.nps.gov/jotr. plan to drive through the park, you Palms. A third entrance is located about entrance station south of Joshua Tree, should have some water with you. If 25 miles east of Indio off 1-10. and at the Indian Cove ranger station. wildlife viewing you are going to camp, we recommend It is a thrill to see wild animals in the one gallon of water per person per day. horses rock climbing park, but remember: this is their home If you are going to be hiking or biking, Horseback riding is a popular way to Climbers may replace existing unsafe and they should not be disturbed. This you will want to take along two gallons experience the park. Because of the bolts, and new bolts may be placed in includes the use of artificial light for per person. Drink the water and do special requirements for stock in desert non-wilderness areas using the bolting viewing them. not economize. When the water is half areas, you will want to request the pub­ checklist. Bolting in wilderness requires gone, it is time to turn back. lication on horse use before you come. a permit. Bolting checklists and permit world wide web applications are available at entrance If you are "connected," check out the emergency phones international visitors stations and visitor centers. National Park Service publications on In an emergency call San Bernardino Park information is available at visitor the web at www.nps.gov. We are adding Dispatch at 909-383-5651. Call collect. centers and entrance stations in Dutch, Climbers may not initiate or terminate a more information all the time. A pay phone is located at the visitor French, German, Italian, Japanese, climb in an occupied campsite without center in Twentynine Palms. You and Spanish. permission of the occupants. you are responsible can find pay phones in the towns of You are responsible for knowing and Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree and at keep wildlife wild stay out and stay alive obeying park rules. Check at visitor Chiriaco Summit (12 miles southeast of Feeding coyotes, squirrels, and other Mining was an important activity in this centers, at entrance stations, on bulletin Cottonwood). Emergency-only phones animals weans them from their natural area and numerous mining sites can be boards, and on the park website: www. are located at the ranger station in food supplies, causes overpopulation, found within the park. If you choose to nps.gov/jotr to find out what they are. visit them, use extreme caution and do Indian Cove and at Intersection Rock. and turns them into aggressive crea­ When in doubt, ask a ranger.

2 Joshua Tree Guide Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 Road Closure DESERT GLUE As part of Joshua Tree National Park's ongoing effort to upgrade and rehabilitate its road system, Keys View Road, from the intersection with Park Boulevard (near Cap Rock) and Keys View overlook has been under construction this summer.

About five and one-half miles of roadway will remain closed Monday through Friday from until October 16. The road is open for visitor traffic from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. Visitors are urged to obey posted speed limits in the construction zone and to follow all instructions from traffic control personnel.

The purpose of the construction activities is to rehabilitate aging park roads and eliminate unsafe road conditions. Highway repairs will also protect native park vegetation by preventing illegal off-road driving and reducing soil compaction from social trails.

The repairs will improve drainage along park roadways to control erosion and flash-flooding. Visitors will also enjoy wider, paved roadways with one-foot paved shoulders. Parking areas are being improved and new roadside curbing will better preserve native Joshua trees and desert wildlife habitat.

What has tentacles creeping through become moist and active, moving the ground around you, resists through the soils, leaving behind a whipping winter desert winds, has trail of the sticky sheath material. The watched the sun rise and fall over sheaths stick to surfaces such as soil hundreds of cloudless days, and particles, forming an intricate webbing is invisible to the untrained eye? of fibers. In this way, loose soil particles Cryptobiotic crusts! Otherwise known are joined together, and otherwise as "desert glue," this layer of biotic unstable, highly erosion-prone surfaces organisms "hidden" (crypto-) in the become resistant to both wind and surface of park soils is rarely noticed by water erosion. Basically, they hold the even the most active desert hiker. place in place!

Living soil crusts are found throughout These sheaths build up in the soil over the world, from the hottest deserts to long periods of time, up to 15 cm deep polar regions. In the desert, these crusts in some areas. Not only do they protect are dominated by cyanobacteria (blue- the soil from blowing away; they also green algae), but also include lichens, absorb precious rainfall (reducing mosses, green algae, microfungi, and flash flood runoff) and provide a huge bacteria. surface area for nutrients to cling to. They contribute nitrogen and organic So what's the big deal? Crusts matter to ecosystems which is critical play a vital role in desert health. in deserts where resources are few Cyanobacteria in the desert form and far between. Unfortunately, many filaments surrounded by sheaths. With human activities are incompatible with summer or winter rains, these filaments these fragile crusts. The fibers that offer stability to the soil surface are no match for the boot of a hiker nor the weight of a tire. Crushed crusts contribute less nitrogen and organic matter to the ecosystem; under the best circumstances, a thin veneer may return in five to seven years!

So now what? Well, the best thing we can all do is try not to love our desert to death. Stay on established trails, and keep your vehicle on approved roads within the park. If you must walk through an area thick with crusts (you may see them as lumpy black bumps on the ground), walk in single file to destroy as small an area as possible. The desert will thank you for this in years to come, with bountiful wildflower displays in the crusted areas, as well as with land kept in place and a healthy ecosystem.

Joshua Tree Guide 3 — Campgrounds Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

Group Group Horse Flush Chemical Fire Dump Campsites are limited to six people, three tents, and two Campgrounds Elevation Sites Fee Sites Fee Camp Water Toilets Toilets Tables Grates Station cars. Group sites accommodate ten to 60 people. Obtain reservations up to six minths in advance for sites Belle 3800' 18 $10 * * * at Black Rock, Indian Cove, and all group sites by calling 1-877-444-6777. Other campgrounds are first come-first served. Camp only in designated campsites. Black Rock 4000' 100 $15 $15 * * * * * There are no hookups for recreational vehicles. At Hidden Valley and group sites, recreational vehicles may Cottonwood 3000' 62 $15 3 $30 * * * * * not exceed 25 feet in length. At White Tank, the 25-foot limit includes the towing vehicle. Hidden Valley 4200' 45 $10 * * * Water is available at Oasis Visitor Center, Indian Cove Ranger Station, West Entrance, and Black Rock and Cot­ tonwood campgrounds. Showers are not available. Indian Cove 3200' 101 $15 13 $25/40 * * * Store food in containers capable of preventing access by wildlife or in your vehicle. Any scented or odorous items Jumbo Rocks 4400' 125 $10 * * * must be similarly stored. All vegetation in the park is protected. If you want to Ryan 4300' 31 $10 $10 * * * make a campfire, bring your own firewood. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Generator use is * * * limited to six hours a day: 7 to 9 a.m., noon to 2 p.m., Sheep Pass 4500' 6 $25/40 and 5 to 7 p.m. * * * There is a 30-day camping limit each year. However, only White Tank 3800' 15 $10 14 nights total may occur from October through May.

Be an inspiration to others; leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Backcountry Roads What To See And Do for mountain bikes and 4-wheel drive vehicles Viewed from the road the desert may appear bleak and drab. Closer examination Mountain bikes and 4-wheel drive hill, then crosses the park boundary. A reveals a fascinating variety of plants and animals and surreal geologic features. vehicles are welcome in the park. For number of side roads veer off toward Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors endless opportunities for exploration and your own safety and for the protection old mines and residences. The main discovery. Depending on the number of hours you have to spend, your interests of natural features, stay on established road leads to CA HWY 62,15 miles (24.3 and energy, here are some ideas to consider: roads. Tire tracks on the open desert km) east of Twentynine Palms. can last for years and will spoil the wil­ IF YOU HAVE FOUR HOURS OR LESS, begin your tour at a park visitor center. derness experience of future hikers. Queen Valley Roads Park staff will be happy to provide you with current information about conditions A network of roads, totaling 13.4 miles in the park as well as answers to your questions. Paved roads in the park are narrow (21.7 km), crosses this valley of boulder with soft shoulders. Curves, boulder piles and Joshua trees. A bike trip can With limited time you may want to confine your sightseeing to the main park roads. piles, and Joshua trees restrict the vision begin at Hidden Valley or the dirt road Many pullouts with wayside exhibits dot these roads. A list of nature trails and of bikers and motorists. The unpaved opposite Geology Tour Road. Bike racks short walks appears in this publication. Consider experiencing at least one of these roads in the park are safer for bikes and have been placed in this area so visitors walks during a short park visit. offer many opportunities to explore the can lock their bikes and go hiking. On clear days the vista from Keys View extends beyond Salton Sea to Mexico and area. Here is a sampling: is well worth the additional 20-minute drive. Geology Tour Road Pinkham Canyon Road An 18-mile motor tour leads through IF YOU PLAN TO SPEND AN ENTIRE DAY, there will be time to walk several This challenging 20-mile (32.4-km) one of the park's most fascinating nature trails or take a longer hike; several are listed on page 7 of this publication. A road begins at Cottonwood Visitor landscapes. The road turns south from ranger-led program will add enjoyment and understanding to your visit. Check at Center, travels along Smoke Tree Wash, the paved road two miles (3.2 km) west visitor centers and on campground bulletin boards for listings. Or, call ahead and and then cuts down Pinkham Canyon. of Jumbo Rocks Campground. There reserve a spot on the popular Keys Ranch guided walking tour. Sections of the road run through soft are 16 stops and it takes approximately sand and rocky flood plains. The road two hours to make the round trip. The Some visitors like to experience the desert from the seat of a mountain bike. The connects to a service road next to I-10. distance from the junction to Squaw park offers an extensive network of dirt roads that make for less crowded and Tank is 5.4 miles (8.8 km) This sec­ safer cycling than the paved main roads. A selection of road trips is included in the Black Eagle Mine Road tion is mostly downhill but bumpy and article titled Backcountry Roads in this publication. Beginning 6.5 miles (10.5 km) north of sandy. Starting at Squaw Tank, a 6-mile Cottonwood Visitor Center, this dead­ (9.7 km) circular route explores Pleas­ Joshua Tree has gained international attention as a superb rock-climbing area. end dirt road runs along the edge of ant Valley. A descriptive brochure that Many visitors enjoy watching the rock climbers in action. Pinto Basin, crosses several dry washes, highlights each stop is available at the and winds through canyons in the Eagle WITH MORE THAN ONE DAY IN THE PARK, your options increase. beginning of the road. Mountains. The first nine miles (14.5 There are nine campgrounds and backcountry camping is permitted. You will km) are within the park boundary. Covington Flats find information concerning camping and backcountry use elsewhere in this Beyond that point is Bureau of Land publication. The dirt roads in Covington Flats offer Management land and a number of side access to some of the park's largest Books and topographic maps give information needed for longer hikes. For "peak roads. Several old mines are located Joshua trees, junipers, and pinyon baggers," the park has ten mountains over 5,000 feet (1,524 m) in elevation. Or near these roads. Use extreme caution pines. From Covington Flats picnic area make it your goal to hike to all the park oases. Other trails lead you to remnants of when exploring old mines. to Eureka Peak is 3.8 miles (6.2 km) the gold mining era, a colorful part of the park's cultural history. one-way. The dirt road is steep near the Old Dale Road end, but the top offers views of Palm Whatever you choose, your time will be rewarding. The desert holds much more This 23-mile (37.3 km) road starts at the Springs, the surrounding mountains, than what is readily apparent to the casual observer. A NOTE OF CAUTION: The desert, same point as Black Eagle Mine Road. and the Morongo Basin. Your trip will fascinating as it is, can be life-threatening for those unfamiliar with its potential The first 11 miles (17.8 km), cross Pinto be 6.5 miles (10.5 km) longer if you ride dangers. It is essential that you carry water with you—even if you are only driving Basin, a flat, sandy dry lake bed. Leav­ or drive over to the backcountry board, through. Cars break down; keys get locked inside; accidents happen. ing the basin, the road climbs a steep a starting point for excellent hiking.

4 Joshua Tree Guide Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING, HIKING, a*1* HORSEBACK RIDING National Park Service Joshua Tree National Park is a back-packer's dream with its Washes may seem like inviting places to sleep because they U.S. Department of the Interior mild winter climate and interesting rock formations, plants, are relatively level, but it is important to realize that they got and wildlife. It embraces 794,000 acres, of which 585,040 that way because flash floods "bulldozed" the rocks and veg­ acres have been designated wilderness. By observing the etation out of the way. guidelines below, your venture into the backcountry should be safe and enjoyable. If you have questions, ask a ranger. It is Domestic issues Joshua Tree National Park your responsibility to know and abide by park regulations. Water sources in the park are not potable and are reserved for wildlife, so you will have to carry in an adequate supply Designations Registering for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. You will want to give National Park-1994 If you will be out overnight, register at a backcountry board. some thought to the trade-off between the water required Biosphere Reserve -1984 The map in this publication indicates the location of the to hydrate dried foods and the heftier weight of canned and National Monument-1936 twelve backcountry boards. An unregistered vehicle or a fresh foods. If you want to heat something you will need to vehicle left overnight somewhere other than at a backcountry pack in a stove and fuel as open fires are prohibited in the Size board is a cause for concern about the safety of the vehicle's backcountry. 794,000 acres occupants. It is also subject to citation and towing. Bring plastic bags to hold your garbage and pack it out. Superintendent Hiking Buried trash gets dug up by animals and scattered by the Curt Sauer It is easy to get disoriented in the desert: washes and animal wind; it is not a pretty sight. Do bury human waste in "cat" trails crisscross the terrain obscuring trails, boulder piles holes six inches deep. Don't bury your toilet paper; put it Park Information are confusingly similar, and there are not many prominent in plastic (zip-locks work nicely) and pack it out. Leave no 760-367-5500 features by which to guide yourself. Do get yourself a topo­ trace, as they say. graphic map and compass or GPS unit and learn how to use Web Site them before you head out. Cell phones are often not usable Coping with the weather www.nps.gov/jotr/ inside the park. That old desert sun can damage eyes as well as skin. Wear a hat and sunglasses and use sun-blocking lotion liberally. Mailing Address Know your limitations and don't take risks. You should not 74485 National Park Drive attempt to climb steep terrain without adequate equipment, Temperature changes of 40 degrees within 24 hours are Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 conditioning, and training. Accidents can be fatal. common. Bring a variety of clothes so you can layer on and off as conditions change. E-mail Carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day [email protected] just for drinking, two gallons in hot weather or if you are Although rain is relatively rare in the desert, when it does come it can really pour down. Even when it isn't raining planning a strenuous trip. You will need additional water for Fax Number where you are, rain in the mountains can run off so fast as to cooking and hygiene. And don't forget the other essentials: 760-367-6392 rain protection, a flashlight, a mirror and whistle, a first-aid cause flash floods. Stay alert. kit, pencil and paper, a pocket knife, and extra food. Horseback riding The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the Locating your camp Horseback riding is a popular way to experience the American people so that all may Your wilderness camp must be located one mile from the backcountry and there are 253 miles of equestrian trails experience our heritage. road and 500 feet from any trail. Make yourself aware of any that traverse open lands, canyon bottoms, and dry washes. day-use areas in the vicinity (they are indicated on the maps Because of the special requirements for horses, care should at the backcountry boards) and make certain to camp outside be taken in planning your trip. You may call 760-367-5500 their boundaries. and request that additional information be mailed to you. Enjoy animals at a distance. Black Rock Canyon Offers Good Hiking and More Never feed or approach them. Store food and trash properly. Located in the northwest corner of the park, the road trails including the Hi-View Nature Trail. The interpretive to Black Rock Canyon dead-ends at the campground. guide for this trail, available at the nature center, identifies the Campsites are located on a hillside at the mouth of the vegetation along this scenic 1.3-mile walk. For those looking canyon surrounded by Joshua trees, junipers, cholla cacti, for longer trails, Eureka Peak, Panorama Loop, and Warren and a variety of desert shrubs. Spring blooms usually begin Peak take hikers to ridge lines overlooking the often snowy with the Joshua trees in late February followed by shrubs and peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio. The trailhead for annuals through May. a 35-mile section of the California Riding and Hiking Trail is located at Black Rock. Backpackers can register at the This quiet, family campground is a good introduction for backcountry board here for overnight wilderness trips. first-time campers. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring with rest rooms and water nearby. If you forget to bring But you don't have to hike to enjoy the Black Rock Canyon your firewood, shopping facilities are only five miles away area. Wildlife sightings are frequent in the campground. in the town of Yucca Valley. Campsites vary in size and can Visitors often encounter ground squirrels, jackrabbits, accommodate both tents and RVs. A day-use picnic area and cottontails. Frequent bird sightings include cactus and a dump station are also available. For horse owners, a wrens, Gambel's quail, great horned owls, scrub-jays, separate area is provided for camping or for and roadrunners. A lucky birder might be rewarded with staging a ride. a glimpse of a Scott's oriole, pinyon jay, or LeConte's thrasher. More elusive species such as bobcat, bighorn sheep, Campers register and pay camping fees at the nature center mountain lions, desert tortoises, and mule deer have all been located in the middle of the campground. The staff at this seen in the area. As the sun sets, listen for the "singing" of small visitor center can help you plan a hike or other activity. coyotes living on the outskirts of the campground. Maps, books, nature guides, and children's activity books may be purchased there. Please do not feed wild animals in Joshua Tree National Park. People food is unhealthy for them and they could become The hills behind the campground offer a variety of hiking aggressive and harm you.

Joshua Tree Guide 5 Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

Oasis Cottonwood Joshua Tree How Far Is It? VC VC VC NATURE TRAILS Belle Campground 9 28 28 Trail Mileage Starting Point

Black Rock Canyon 25 65 9 Arch Rock .3-mile loop White Tank Campground, Cap Rock/Keys View Road 19 40 16 (.5-km) opposite site 9 Bajada All- .25-mile loop South of Cottonwood, one- Cholla Cactus Garden 18 20 36 Access m(.4-km ) half mile from the southern entrance to the park Cottonwood Spring 38 0 56 Barker Dam 1.1-mile loop Barker Dam parking area Geology Tour Road 13 35 21 (1.8-km)

Hidden Valley 20 42 14 Cap Rock .4-mile loop Cap Rock parking area, at a (,6-km) the junction of Park Blvd. Indian Cove 10 48 8 and Keys View Road

Interstate 10 45 7 63 Cholla Cactus .25-mile loop 20 miles north of Garden (.4-km) Cottonwood Visitor Center

Jumbo Rocks Campground 12 34 23 Cottonwood 1-mile Cottonwood Spring Keys Ranch Tour 22 44 16 Spring (1.6-km) parking area Hidden Valley 1-mile loop Hidden Valley picnic area Keys View 24 45 21 (1.6-km) Oasis of Mara 0 38 34 Hi-View 1.3-mile loop Northwest of Black Rock (2.1-km) Campground Pinto Basin Road/Park Blvd. 8 30 26 Indian Cove .6-mile loop West end of Indian Cove Ryan Campground 18 39 16 (1-km) Campground Keys View .25-mile loop Keys View Sheep Pass Campground 16 37 19 a (.4-km) White Tank Campground 11 27 29 Oasis of .5-mile loop Oasis Visitor Center, Mara a (.8-km) Twentynine Palms Skull Rock .25-mile Jumbo Rocks Campground (.4-km)

The Joshua Tree Guide is produced by the employees and volunteers of Joshua Tree National Park and Joshua Tree National Park Association and is published by Joshua Tree National Park Association. HIKING TRAILS

Trail Round-trip Time Starting Point Trail Description Mileage

Boy Scout Trail 16 miles 1-2 Indian Cove backcountry board or Scenic trail through the western most edge of the Wonderland of Rocks. 25.8km days Keys West backcountry board 0.5 See backcountry board for information on overnight use. Moderate, mile (0.8km) east of Quail Springs Picnic area

49 Palms Oasis 3 miles 2-3 Parking area at end of Canyon Several stands of fan palms, evidence of past fires, and pools of water Area Information (4.8 km) hours Road, 4 miles (6.4 km) west of are found at the oasis. The plants in this area are especially fragile, so Twentynine Palms off Hwy 62 walk lightly. Moderately strenuous. For information about accommodations and attractions in surrounding communities, you may contact the following chambers of commerce: Lost Horse 4 miles 3-4 Parking area 1.2 miles (1.9 km) Site of ten-stamp mill and foundations. Summit elevation: 5278 feet •.nQ CBlTipy • Mine/Mt. (6.4 km) hour east of Keys View Road (1609 m). Moderately strenuous. Indio 760-325-1577 82-921 Indio Blvd. [email protected] • Evenly www.pschamber.org Lost Palms Oasis 7.2 miles 4-6 Cottonwood Spring A canyon with numerous palm stands. A side trip to Victory Palms Indio, CA 92201 (11.6 km) hours or Cottonwood Campground and Munsen Canyon involves boulder scrambling. Moderate to oasis 760-347-0676 Twentynine Palms overlook, then strenuous. [email protected] 6455 Mesquite Ave. Unit A www.indiochamber.org Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 Mastodon Peak 3 miles 2-3 Cottonwood Spring Excellent views of the Eagle Mountains and Salton Sea. Summit (4.8 km) hours or Cottonwood Campground elevation: 3371 feet (1027 m). Moderate. Joshua Tree 760-367-3445 P.O. Box 600 www.29chamber.com Ryan Mountain 3 miles 2-3 Ryan Mountain parking area or Excellent views of Lost Horse, Queen, and Pleasant Valleys. Summit Joshua Tree, CA 92252 Yucca Valley (4.8 km) hours Sheep Pass Campground elevation: 5461 feet (1664 m). Moderately strenuous. 760-366-3723 1 56300 29 Palms Hwy. www.joshuatreechamber.org 1 boards^ nps.g^' 01^^ Yucca Valley, CA 92284 Thirty-five miles of the California Riding and Hiking Trail pass through the park. Access to the trail is at its junction with Covington Flats, Keys View, and Squaw 760-365-6323 Tank (Geology Tour) Roads; at Ryan Campground; south of Belle Campground; and near the north entrance to the park. This allows for shorter hikes of 4, 6.7, or I Palm Springs [email protected] 190W.AmadoRd. 11 miles (6.4, 10.7, or 17.6 km). Two to three days are required to hike the entire length of the trail. www.yuccavalley.org Palm Springs, CA 92262

6 Joshua Tree Guide Joshua Tree Guide 7 Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 The Desert Fan Palm: A California Native In an otherwise hot and sparse environment, palm oases are a luxuriant gift of shade and solace. The verdant display requires a constant supply of water so oases often occur along fault lines, where uplifted layers of hard impermeable rock forces underground water to the surface. There are only 158 desert fan palm oases in North America. Five are located in Joshua Tree National Park.

The desert fan palm, Washingtoniafilifera, is native to the low hot deserts of Southern California where it can live for 80 to 90 years. Towering up to 75 feet, the desert fan palm is among the tallest of North American palms. It is definitely the heaviest: a mature desert fan palm can weigh as much as three tons. Its distinctive leaves are shaped like a fan and folded like an accordion. They measure up to six feet in length and are nearly as wide. Looking much like "petticoats," the fan palm's dead leaves remain attached to its trunk until removed by fire, wind, or flood.

Fire is beneficial for palms and rarely kills an adult. In palms the vascular bundles, those tubes that transport water and nutrients, are scattered throughout the trunk. This arrangement provides insulation from the heat of a fire. In contrast, trees such as oaks have all their vascular tissue in a ring just beneath the bark. Fire does kill young palms, but it also removes competitors and opens up space for palm seeds to germinate. In fact, desert fan palms increase seed production immediately after fires. A healthy palm can produce as many as 350,000 seeds.

People have been attracted to palm oases since prehistoric times. Native Americans ate the palm fruit and used the fronds to build waterproof dwellings. The Cahuillas (pronounced: Ka-wee-yahs) periodically set fire to oases in order to increase fruit production and to remove the sharp-edged palm fronds littering the oasis floor. The Cahuillas also planted palm seeds in promising locations. Water is a necessity. Desert fan palms suck up water using a mass of pencil-wide rootlets so dense that the roots of other plant species cannot penetrate. This mass may extend as far as 20 feet from the trunk in all directions. But water, in the form of flash floods, is also the most common cause of death for desert fan palms living WHERE IN THE PARK IS COTTONWOOD SPRING? in narrow canyons. Cottonwood Spring Oasis, one of sheep often come up the wash for water Water also draws animals such as bighorn sheep, Gambel's quail, and coyotes to the best kept secrets in Joshua Tree in the early hours. An old teamster road palm oases. Coyotes help spread palms by eating palm fruit at one location and National Park, is just seven miles from drops down past the falls to the lower depositing the undigested seeds at another. The cool shade of an oasis provides the southern entrance to the park. The wash. A short hike leads through palo habitat for animals that live nowhere else. After dark, a rush of air may be caused spring, the result of earthquake activity, verde and desert willow trees to the by the passing of a western yellow bat—they only roost in palms. During the day, a was used for centuries by the Cahuilla remains of Moorten's Mill. flash of yellow-orange might be a hooded oriole preparing to build its woven sack­ Indians, who left bedrock mortars and like nest under the large green leaves of a desert fan palm. The dime-sized holes clay pots, or ollas, in the area. The three-mile loop trail to Mastodon seen in the trunks of palms are exit holes of the two-inch, blue-black, giant palm- Peak offers spectacular views, boring beetle, Dinapate wrightii, who lives exclusively in palm oases. Cottonwood Spring was an interesting geology, the Mastodon important water stop for Mine, and the Winona Mill The larvae of the Dinapate beetle spend about five years chewing tunnels within prospectors, miners, Site. And, for those the trunks of desert fan palms. The chewing is so loud that woodpeckers use the and teamsters traveling looking for a longer noise to locate the larvae. Successful larva pupate within the trunk then chew from Mecca to mines hike—eight miles their way out. Because their rear end is wider than their front end, they exit going in the north. Water round trip—and backwards to avoid getting stuck. Emerging in June, males and females mate and was necessary for the largest stand then die within a few weeks. Eventually these beetles can kill a palm, but they only gold processing, so of fan palms in inhabit older trees. Giant palm-boring beetles keep the palm population young and a number of gold the park, the Lost vibrant. The presence of these beetles is actually a sign of a healthy oasis. mills were located Palms Oasis trail is here. The remains of a sure winner. Palms stand straight and tall, looking proud and invincible. But they aren't. Any an arrastra, a primitive place can be overly loved. As you explore these oases of wonder, take care. Use type of gold mill, can be found near the But you don't have to hike to enjoy existing paths. Watch out for young palms—seedlings look like thick blades of spring, and concrete ruins mark the Cottonwood Spring. This is one of the grass. We do not want the presence of people to be a sign of a declining oasis. sites of two later gold mills in the area. best birding spots in the park, so bring your binoculars and sit a spell. Cottonwood Spring was first mentioned in a gold mine claim filed in 1875, The campground, which has water and indicating that the trees are native. rest rooms, is located one-half mile Think Globally, Act Locally Fan palms first appear around 1920, from Cottonwood Spring via a signed trail; there are also shaded picnic tables perhaps growing from seeds deposited Bring your aluminum and metal cans, glass, and in the campground. To learn more by a bird or coyote. plastic to a campground recycling center. about the plants, animals, and history of A number of hikes begin at this fascinating place, join a ranger-led Share or recycle this Joshua Tree Guide when you Cottonwood Spring. A short, easy walk hike, walk, or campfire program, offered have finished reading it. down Cottonwood Wash leads past a most weekends. second oasis to a dry falls. In wet years, Participate in recycling in your community. the falls can become a scene of rushing water and red-spotted toads. Bighorn

8 Joshua Tree Guide Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

CAMPGROUND ASTRONOMY The Weather

Camping away from city lights gives many of us city dwellers a chance to see the sky as we have never seen it. A great way to introduce someone to the "dark sky" is to tour the Milky Way with binoculars. First just lie back on the ground and gaze at the band of light. Notice how it is brighter in places, with clumps of light and dark streaks where stars seem to be absent. Realize that the glow of light is from stars so far away that we can't quite make them out. The dark lanes are actually interstellar dust that blocks our view. The clumps of light are clouds of stars.

Find one of those star clouds and, without taking your gaze away from it, raise your binoculars to your eyes. The cloud will resolve into hundreds of stars, with perhaps smaller clumps and hazy patches in the field of view.

Notice how the Milky Way seems to be very bright and dense to the south near the horizon? You are looking toward the center of our galaxy, where the stars are richest. The constellations Sagittarius and Scorpio lie in this direction.

Just west of Sagittarius is Scorpio, one of the few constellations that looks like its name. Scorpio is distinguished by the bright red star Antares, located in the scorpion's neck. Look at Antares with binoculars. See the large fuzzy ball of light next to it? That is a large globular cluster.

Turn your attention northward, above and to the left of the stars of Sagittarius. You will see a large cloud of stars. This is the Scutum star cloud. With binoculars you should easily see a hazy patch of light. This is a beautiful open star cluster.

As we move farther north, higher in the sky, we see the star clouds in the constella­ tion Cygnus, the swan. This constellation also looks like its name. We can see the neck pointing south, and the wings stretched east and west. The bright star behind the wings is Deneb, the "tail" of Cygnus.

To help identify the many objects you will find with binoculars, you will want a star chart. A circular "star finder," also known as a "planisphere," will show the location of Measurements were taken at 1,960 feet. You can expect seven to 12 degrees cooler many celestial objects. temperatures and 3.5 inches more precipitation at higher elevations.

fractures, it began to transform some away the protective ground surface. As they broke into uniform blocks when Rockpiles hard mineral grains along its path into they were exposed, the huge eroded they were exposed to the surface. soft clay, while it loosened and freed boulders settled one on top of another, Of the dynamic processes that erode The geologic landscape of Joshua Tree grains resistant to solution. Rectangular creating those impressive rock piles we rock material, water, even in arid has long fascinated visitors to this stones slowly weathered to spheres see today, (figure 3) of hard rock surrounded by soft environments, is the most important. desert. How did the rocks take on such clay containing loose mineral grains. Visitors also wonder about the "broken Wind action is also important, but less fantastic shapes? What forces sculpted Imagine holding an ice cube under the terrace walls" laced throughout the so than the action of water. them? faucet. The cube rounds away at the boulders. These are naturally occurring The processes operating in the arid Geologists believe the face of our corners first, because that is the part formations called dikes. Younger conditions of the present are only modern landscape was born more than most exposed to the force of the water. than the surrounding monzogranite, partially responsible for the sculpturing 100 million years ago. Molten liquid, A similar thing happened here, but over dikes were formed when molten of the rocks. The present landscape is heated by the continuous movement millions of years, on a grand scale, and rock was pushed into existing joint essentially a collection of relic features of Earth's crust, oozed upward and during a much wetter climate, (figure 2) fractures. Light-colored dikes formed inherited from earlier times of higher cooled while still below the surface as a mixture of quartz and potassium rainfall and lower temperatures. of the overlying rock. These plutonic After the arrival of the arid climate of minerals cooled in these tight spaces. intrusions are a granitic rock called recent times, flash floods began washing Suggesting the work of a stonemason, monzogranite.

The monzogranite developed a system of rectangular joints. One set, oriented roughly horizontally, resulted from the removal, by erosion, of the miles of overlying rock, called gneiss (pronounced "nice"). Another set of joints is oriented vertically, roughly paralleling the contact of the monzogranite with its surrounding rocks. The third set is also vertical, but cuts the second set at high angles. The resulting system of joints tended to develop rectangular blocks, (figure 1) Good examples of the joint system may be seen at Jumbo Rocks, Wonderland of Rocks, and Split Rock.

As ground water percolated down through the monzogranite's joint

Joshua Tree Guide 9 Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

"/ Speak for the Trees" Dr. Seuss, The Lorax Desert Institute The Desert Institute, the educational field program sponsored by Joshua Tree National Park Asso­ Surrounded by twisted, spiky trees the biblical figure, Joshua, seeing the ciation, a not-for-profit organization, offers outdoor classes related to Joshua Tree National Park and the California deserts. Taught by experts in their field, classes vary in length from one to three straight out of a Dr. Seuss book, you limbs of the tree as outstretched in days. Optional college credit is offered through University of California Riverside Extension for might begin to question your map. supplication, guiding the travelers course titles followed by an asterisk (*). Course fees vary from $45 to $200. Where are we anyway? In wonder, westward. Concurrent with Mormon the traveler pulls over for a snapshot settlers, ranchers and miners arrived Fall Class Schedule of this prickly oddity; the naturalist in the high desert with high hopes Venomous Animals of the Desert Sep 30 reaches for a botanical guide to explain of raising cattle and digging for gold. Insects of the Desert Oct 7 this vegetative spectacle; and the rock These homesteaders used the Joshua Desert Night Sky Oct 13 climber shouts "Yowch!" when poked tree's limbs and trunks for fencing Archaeology of Joshua Tree National Park* Oct 13, 14 by dagger-like spines on the way to the and corrals. Miners found a source Painting the Joshua Tree Oct 14 5.10 climbing route. of fuel for the steam engines used in Night Photography Oct 20 processing ore. Native American Pottery Oct 20 & 28 Watercolor Painting in the Park Oct 21 Today we enjoy this yucca for its •Basic Desert Survival Oct 21 grotesque appearance, a surprising sight Edible Plants of the Desert Oct 27, 28 in the landscape of biological interest. Mining History of Joshua Tree National Park Nov 3 The Joshua tree's life cycle begins California Indian Basket Weaving Nov 3, 4 with the rare germination of a seed, its Discovering the Hexie Mine Group Nov 4 survival dependent upon well-timed Photographing the Joshua Tree Landscape Nov 9, 10 rains. Look for sprouts growing up Geology: Creation of the Joshua Tree Landscape* Nov 10, 11 from within the protective branches of a Tracking in Joshua Tree National Park Nov 16, 17 shrub. Young sprouts may grow several The Indigenous Peoples of Joshua Tree National Park Nov 17, 18 inches in the first five years, and then Native Californian Pigments & Paints Nov 18 slow down, averaging one-half inch Geology of the San Andreas Fault Dec 1 a Joshua tree per year thereafter. The tallest Joshua Archaeology of the Colorado Desert Dec 1, 2 tree in the park looms a whopping Mystery of the Wonderland of Rocks Dec 2 forty feet high, a grand presence in the Map & Compass Basic Skills Dec 7, 8 Queen Valley forest; it is estimated to be Map & Compass Advanced Skills Dec 9 about 300 years old! These "trees" do Advanced Wilderness Navigation Dec 15 not have growth rings like you would Explore the Eagle Mountains Dec 16 find in an oak or pine. This makes aging difficult, but you can divide the height Contact us for a brochure or to sign up for a course: www.joshuatree.org / tel. 760-367-5535 / fax of a Joshua tree by the average annual 760-367-5583 / e-mail [email protected]. growth of one-half inch to get a rough estimate. Known as the park namesake, the Joshua tree, Yucca brevifolia, is a giant member of the lily family. Like the California fan palm, Washingtonia The moth collects pollen while laying filifera, the Joshua tree is a monocot, her eggs inside the flower ovary. in the subgroup of flowering plants As seeds develop and mature, the that also includes grasses and orchids. eggs hatch into larvae, which feed Don't confuse the Joshua tree with the on the seeds. The tree relies on the Mojave yucca, Yucca schidigera. This moth for pollination and the moth close relative can be distinguished by its relies on the tree for a few seeds longer, wider leaves and fibrous threads for her young—a happy symbiosis. curling along leaf margins. Both types The Joshua tree is also capable of of yuccas can be seen growing together sprouting from roots and branches. in the park. The Joshua tree provides a Mojave yucca Being able to reproduce vegetatively a good indicator that you are in the allows a much quicker recovery after Mojave Desert, but you may also find it damaging floods or fires, which may growing next to a saguaro cactus in the kill the main tree. Sonoran Desert in western Arizona or another Joshua tree mixed with pines in the San Bernardino Many birds, mammals, reptiles, and Mountains. insects depend on the Joshua tree Spring rains may bring clusters of for food and shelter. Keep your eyes Years ago the Joshua tree was white-green flowers on long stalks at open for the yellow and black flash recognized by American Indians for branch tips. Like all desert blooms, of a Scott's oriole busy making a nest its useful properties: tough leaves were Joshua trees depend on just the in a yucca's branches. At the base of Mojave Desert ecosystem, providing worked into baskets and sandals, and perfect conditions: well-timed rains, rocks you may find a wood rat nest built habitat for numerous birds, mammals, flower buds and raw or roasted seeds and for the Joshua tree, a crisp winter with spiny yucca leaves for protection. insects, and lizards. Joshua tree forests made a healthy addition to the diet. freeze. Researchers believe that below As evening falls, the desert night lizard tell a story of survival, resilience, and The local Cahuilla have long referred freezing temperatures may damage the begins poking around under the log of beauty borne through perseverance. to the tree as "hunuvat chiy'a" or growing end of a branch and stimulate a fallen Joshua tree in search of tasty They are the silhouette that reminds "humwichawa"; both names are used by flowering, followed by branching. You insects. those of us who live here that we are a few elders fluent in the language. may notice some Joshua trees grow home. Like the Lorax we speak for the like straight stalks; these trees have You may be at ease with pine or trees, but often the trees speak to us. By the mid-19th century, Mormon never bloomed—which is why they hardwood, or find shade under the immigrants had made their way across are branchless! In addition to ideal domesticated trees in your city park, the Colorado River. Legend has it that weather, the pollination of flowers but in the high desert, Joshua is our these pioneers named the tree after requires a visit from the yucca moth. tree. It is an important part of the By Jane Rodgers

10 Joshua Tree Guide Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

Wildflowers of Joshua Tree National Park. 70 Common Cacti, Fischer. Colorful photo­ Publications to help you plan a visit to Fifty-eight color photos of blooming wild- graphs and easy-to-read descriptions demon­ flowers, shrubs, and cacti taken by park staff strate the unique beauty of the common cacti Joshua Tree National Park provide a handy reference for visitors. $1.50 of the Southwest. 70 pages PB $7.95

700 Desert Wildflowers, Bowers. Color Mojave Desert Wildflowers, Stewart. The following publications have been selected for their value in planning your trip photos and easy-to-read text highlight some of Presents a condensed view of the nearly 2,000 to Joshua Tree National Park. These items and many more may be ordered by mail, the most common wildflowers of the deserts in species of plants known to occur throughout telephone, fax, or on the web at www.joshuatree.org. the southwest corner of America. the Mojave Desert region. 210 pages PB $14.95 56 pages PB $7.95 The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of West­ Getting to Know Joshua Tree National Park Shrubs and Trees of the Southwest Desert, ern North America, Sibley. An indispensable Bowers. An easy-to-use guide full of descrip­ resource for birders seeking an authoritative Road Guide to Joshua Tree National Park, Recreation Map of Joshua Tree, Harrison. tions and line drawings of over 100 desert and portable guide to the birds of the west. 474 Decker. Guides visitors on a driving tour Colorful map of Joshua Tree National Park shrubs and trees. 140 pages PB $14.95 pages PB $19.95 through the land where the Mojave and Colo­ highlighting points of interest, campgrounds, rado Deserts meet. 48 pages PB $5.95 picnic areas, topographic features, and How Indians Used Desert Plants, Poisonous Dwellers of the Desert, Dodge. backcountry roads and trails. $8.95 Cornett. An informative account of the ways This guide not only enables the reader to On Foot in Joshua Tree, Furbush. A compre­ early natives used a variety of desert plants identify potentially dangerous species but hensive hiking guide featuring 90 park hikes, Trails Illustrated Topographic Map of for food, tools, building materials, and as an encourages appreciation of the animals' 40 photos and illustrations, and 26 maps and Joshua Tree National Park. Includes eleva- integral part of their daily lives. natural history. 40 pages PB $5.95 reference charts. 173 pages PB $14.95 tions, backcountry camping, hikes, routes, and 62 pages PB $9.95 safety. Waterproof and tearproof. $9.95 Joshua Tree National Park A Visitor's Guide, Cates. A delightful, informative guide blending Joshua Tree, The Story Behind the Scenery, human and natural history. Enjoyable by desert Vuncannon. Full of color photos and fasci­ rats and first-time visitors. 100 pages PB $6.95 nating text, the perfect introduction to the park. 48 pages PB $9.95; $10.95 for French or Education to enhance your visit to Joshua Tree The Complete Guide, Kaiser. German. Filled with invaluable tips, maps, and trail Joshua Tree National Park descriptions to help you make the most of your Joshua Tree National Park Geology. Trent time in Joshua Tree. 207 pages PB $19.99 and Hazlett. Explores the geology and evolu­ THE DESERT INSTITUTE AT JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK, the education tion of the Joshua Tree landscape. Includes program of the Joshua Tree National Park Association, sponsors one, Joshua Tree Desert Reflections, Trimble. sections on plate tectonics, regional geology, two, and three day field classes on weekends from September to Dazzling photos and lyrical narrative make this and seismic activity. PB $9.95 May. Each class examines a natural or cultural feature of the Mojave book both the perfect introduction to the park Desert and is geared to teachers, volunteer interpreters, park visitors, and a treasured memento. 40 pages PB $9.95 Explore! Grubbs. A Falcon Guide to exploring and others interested in learning about the park and the Mojave the trails and roads of Joshua Tree National Desert. College credit is available through University of California Cragcam's Guide to Joshua Tree National Park. Includes a fold-out map; where to camp, Riverside Extension. Park, Breaks park activities into three easy to hike, bike, and drive; trail descriptions and use areas: hiking, rock climbing, and camping. directions; local hazards and safety precau­ MEMBERS OF THE JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK ASSOCIATION are DVD $21.95 tions. 110 pages PB $15.95 automatically enrolled in Partners in Nature Education (PINE), which qualifies them to receive a $10 discount on each Desert Institute class, as well as discounts on University of California Riverside Extension outdoor study courses. For information on becoming a Joshua Tree On the Road in California National Park Association member, call 760-367-5535. California Deserts, Schad. Takes you on a National Audubon Society Field Guide to journey through the hottest, driest, lowest, and California, Alden, Health. A complete over­ A CATALOGUE OF DESERT INSTITUTE CLASSES is available at park visitor loveliest places in North America. view of California's natural history including centers, or you may call 760-367-5535 and request one by mail. 103 pages PB $14.95 an extensive sampling of the state's parks, pre­ An on-line class catalogue is available on our website: http://www. serves, beaches, forests, islands, and wildlife joshuatree.org. California Road & Recreation Atlas. Detailed sanctuaries. 450 pages $19.95 maps include landscape, recreation guides, GPS grids, and freeway exit numbers. Geology Underfoot in Southern Califor­ 143 pages PB $24.95 nia, Sharp and Glazner. An inside view of the southland's often active, sometimes enigmatic, The Living Desert, exploring national parks and always interesting landscape. Ordering Information and monuments through natural sounds. 224 pages PB $14.00 Telephone orders are encouraged to ensure CD $15.95. that you are ordering the publications best suited to your needs or order from our website at www.joshuatree.org. Life in the Desert By mail, enclose check or credit card number Desert Solitaire, Abbey. The author's recol­ Desert Survival Tips, Tricks, & Skills, Nester. and expiration date. CA residents include lection of summers spent as a ranger in the Explains how to deal with emergencies that 7.75% sales tax. Prices are subject to change canyon and rim country of southern Utah, might arise in a desert environment. Filled with without notice. examples, narratives, and illustrations to aid including observations of the natural world. understanding. 70 pages PB $10.95 269 pages PB $14.00 Postage & Handling Rates U.S. & Canada: $7.00 for first item, 74485 National Park Drive The Lizard-Watching Guide, Sanborn. More The Joshua Tree, Cornett. Up-to-date infor­ each add'l. item $0.50. Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 than a typical field guide, Sanborn details sev­ mation about this symbol of the Mojave Desert Foreign airmail: actual cost plus handling. voice: (760) 367-5525 enteen common lizards found in the Mojave and namesake of our national park. 32 pages fax: (760) 367-5583 and Colorado deserts. 36 pages PB $8.95 PB $6.95 vvvvw.joshuatree.org

Joshua Tree Guide 11 Emergency: dial 909-383-5651

Rating a Technical Climb THE TRICKSTER

The seemingly endless shapes and angles of Joshua Tree National Park's rock FAMILY Dog, Canidae formations began capturing the imaginations of climbers over fifty years ago. Today Joshua Tree welcomes climbing enthusiasts from around the world. GENUS AND SPECIES Canis latrans

On any day of the week, you can find climbers out on the rocks testing their skills. Many visitors like to watch as climbers seemingly overcome gravity to ascend the rocks—the best appearing to dance up the rock face

Most climbs are rated according to difficulty. The climbs at Joshua Tree are rated, under the Yosemite Decimal System, from 5.0 to 5.14. Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills, published by the Mountaineers, has a tongue-in-cheek description of the ratings that provides a beginner or non-climber with a better understanding.

5.0 to 5.4 There are two hand holds and two footholds for every move; the holds become progressively smaller as the number increases. 5.5 to 5.6 The two hand holds and two footholds are there, obvious to the experienced, but not necessarily to the beginner. 5.7 The move is missing one hand or foothold. 5.8 The move is missing two holds of the four, or missing only one but is very strenuous. Coyote Puppies Adult Coyote Arete by John Roberts

DESCRIPTION looks like a small dog about two feet high, weighing about 25 pounds; fur is buff, whiteish-grey, to reddish gray; tail has a black tip

VOICE high pitched barks, yelps, howls, and yaps; heard most often just before sunrise and shortly after sunset.

FOOD fruit, grasses, seeds, nuts, flowers, rabbits, small rodents, insects and birds

LIFE HISTORY litter size varies from two to 15 with an average of six pups

HABITAT common throughout the park

CONSERVATION STATUS increasing

WHERE TO LOOK campgrounds, along the road from Jumbo Rocks to West Entrance

NOTES: Known as a "trickster" by American Indians, coyote's adaptability is amazing. Historically, coyotes were found primarily in the Great Plans, but today they are found in every Canadian Province, every state, except Hawaii, and even down to Panama. Coyotes have been seen drinking from Hollywood pools and observed in downtown New York City. Please don't let the "trickster" fool you into giving it food.

5.9 This move has only one reasonable hold which may be for either a foot or a Coyote "Teen" Singing Coyotes hand. 5.10 No hand holds or footholds. The choices are to pretend a hold is there, pray a lot, or go home. 5.11 After thorough inspection you conclude this move is obviously impossible; however, occasionally someone actually accomplishes it. Since there is nothing for a hand hold, grab it with both hands. 5.12 The surface is as smooth as glass and vertical. No one has really ever made this move, although a few claim they have. 5.13 This climb is identical to 5.12 except it is located under over-hanging rock.

Since the article was written, 5.14 has been added to the scale. Good luck at figuring out how they climb something that hard!

Rock climbing can be dangerous. Climbing accidents are not infrequent and sometimes they are fatal. Be sure that you are properly trained and equipped before you engage in this activity.

12 Joshua Tree Guide