National Park Service Joshua Tree National Park U.S. Department of the Interior The offi cial newspaper February – May 2017 Spring Guide

Brittlebush blooms on rocky slopes near Cottonwood Springs Oasis. NPS/Brad Sutton The Desert Unsung IT’S BEEN THIRTY YEARS SINCE THE BAND U2 RELEASED THE JOSHUA Desert, and roughly half of the park’s 792,510 acres Tree in March 1987. It was this album that catapulted lie in the hotter, drier, and lower-elevation Colorado the four Irishmen to international stardom; it was this Desert—a subsection of the Sonoran Desert. album that drew the curious eyes of a generation to the otherworldly landscapes of the Southern California One great way to round out your park visit is to make desert. The iconic back cover photo by Anton Corbijn, sure you spend time in both the Mojave and the Colorado showing the band standing near a lone Joshua tree, Deserts. Even if you have only a short time in the park, cemented the association between the park and the head for the Pinto Basin and stop at one of the pullouts album—even though the picture was taken off Highway along the road. Step out of your car. Soak in the silence 190 near Death Valley, about 200 miles north of here. and admire the immensity of the vista before you. Welcome to your park. Many of the 2 million people who come to Joshua Tree From the Turkey Flats backcountry board, for example, National Park each year are specifi cally looking for Joshua you can look across vast sweeps of undeveloped I just wanted to take a moment and trees. Something about the bizarre forms of these wilderness to the Coxcomb Mountains, 25 miles distant. welcome you to Southern California’s branching yuccas captures the imagination. There’s Creosote bush and white bursage are the dominant national park. Joshua Tree is the iconic no denying the plants are charismatic and a highlight shrubs growing in this huge basin. There isn’t a single symbol of the Mojave Desert. This year you of a trip to the park. Joshua tree in sight, but the Colorado Desert you’re are joining millions of people from around standing in has charismatic trees of its own. the globe who will experience the diverse, They aren’t the only highlight, though. VisitorsColorado Desert inspiring scenery that stretches across the Mojave Desert who travel through only the northwestern part of Dry washes are a great place to look for trees like park. Transition Zone Joshua Tree National Park the park, where Joshua trees grow, are missing out: ironwood, smoketree, and blue palo verde. Their our namesake plants are found only in the Mojave seeds sprout after being tumbled and bounced with As you discover the desert, I would …continued on p. 10 encourage you to also explore the neighboring landscapes that are preserved Joshua Tree Visitor Center Oasis Visitor Center for your enjoyment and that of generations to come. In addition to our northern T sister parks at Mojave National Preserve Great Basin E R Black Rock Nature Center E S and Death Valley National Park, please D E E N take some time to visit the millions of V O A Z acres of public lands managed by the J T R Mojave O E M S Bureau of Land Management and the S A E N

D

A N D Joshua Tree R E O A S US Forest Service. Our newest neighbor

D F A Sonoran U N L T A O R I O to the east—Sand to Snow National Colorado T L S I A N

S O Desert A Monument—links Joshua Tree to the N D R E N C A S

A F A Chihuahuan U L T R wild slopes of Mt. San Gorgonio. To the T Cottonwood Visitor Center north, Mojave Trails National Monument

S E A L E V interprets prehistoric cultures as well as E L Route 66.

The Colorado Desert is a subsection of the larger Sonoran Desert (left). The transition zone between the Colorado and Mojave Deserts hosts a wealth of biological diversity and is home to species characteristic of both deserts (right). Living in the west, we are truly lucky to have so many wonderful natural and Visiting on the Wing Fragments of the Past Safety; Rules & Regulations … p. 2 cultural treasures to enjoy. Take advantage What to See and Do; Leave No Trace ... p. 3 of these opportunities and relish the chance to see something new on your Springtime brings visitors of all types to Joshua How can the fossilized bones of extinct Hiking Trails … p. 4 public lands. Tree, including not just humans but also our animals and artifacts left by past people help Camping; Equestrian Use … p. 5 feathered friends. Find out why birds not us understand how climate change may Sincerely, typically found in the desert show up here every affect Joshua Tree’s future? Take a look at Park Map; Essential Information ... p. 6-7 spring. Get tips on where to spot commonly how scientists use fossils to reconstruct past Geology; Joshua Trees ... p. 9 (and not so commonly) seen species. Whether environments, learn about the creatures who you’re completely new to birdwatching or are once roamed this landscape, and discover how Night Sky Almanac ... p. 10 David Smith David Smith an advanced birder, the park’s birds are sure the environment shapes plants, animals, and Weather Information ... p. 11 Superintendent to catch your eye, as Park Ranger Beth Hudick humans. Brad Sutton digs into what we have Ranger Programs … p. 12 explains on p. 8. discovered about Joshua Tree’s past on p. 8. National Park Service Safety: What You Need to Know U.S. Department of the Interior We want your trip to Joshua Tree to CELL PHONES ARE UNRELIABLE GIVE WILDLIFE A BRAKE be safe and enjoyable. Ultimately, Most of Joshua Tree National Park roads are narrow your safety is your responsibility. This Park is remote wilderness and % and winding, and Joshua Tree National Park preserves information will help you prepare. there is no cell coverage. Do some areas are often and protects the scenic, natural, and not count on your phone for congested. Obey posted speed limits. cultural resources representative of the BRING WATER WITH YOU navigation or in case of emergency. The maximum speed in the park is 45 Colorado and Mojave Deserts’ rich Water is available at only mph (73 kph), and in many locations biological and geological diversity, cultural 7 a few locations around IN CASE OF EMERGENCY the speed limit is lower. Driving history, wilderness, recreational values, the edges of the park: Emergency phones are slowly and cautiously helps protect and outstanding opportunities for • Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms found at two locations: park wildlife. If you want to stop to education and scientifi c study. • Black Rock Campground • Indian Cove Ranger Station view animals or scenery, please use a Superintendent • Cottonwood Campground • Intersection Rock parking area near pullout and get completely out of the David Smith • West Entrance (no RV water access) Hidden Valley Campground travel lanes to prevent accidents. • Indian Cove Ranger Station (no RV Park Information If you are in an area with cell service DON’T TRUST GPS FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS 760-367-5500 water access) and you have an emergency, dial In the desert, some GPS units or Emergency STAY HYDRATED & EAT SALTY SNACKS 909-383-5651 or 911 for assistance. navigation apps may try to direct you to Dial 909-383-5651 or 911 We recommend drinking a roads that are unsafe for your vehicle. PREVENT BITES & STINGS For safety, refer to the park map for Mailing Address minimum of one gallon (about 4 74485 National Park Drive liters) of water per person, per day. Joshua Tree is home to seven species navigation, or check with a ranger. Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 You will need more fl uids if you are of rattlesnakes, as well as venomous active: vigorous hiking, cycling, scorpions and spiders. These animals TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN Website or climbing can cause you to lose are less active in winter, but may still Flash fl oods occur when monsoon www.nps.gov/jotr water and salts at a rate of 1 ½ quarts be present on a warm day. You can thunderstorms pour large amounts Social Media per hour. Replace these fl uids and avoid problems by paying attention of rain in a short time. Avoid canyons instagram.com/JoshuaTreeNPS electrolytes by drinking water or sports to your surroundings. Never step and washes during rainstorms twitter.com/JoshuaTreeNPS drinks and consuming salty foods. or reach into places you cannot and be prepared to move to higher facebook.com/JoshuaTreeNPS see. Use a fl ashlight or headlamp at ground. While driving, be alert for fl ickr.com/JoshuaTreeNP PREPARE FOR CHANGING WEATHER night. Campers, check your shoes water running across the road. Wait youtube.com/JoshuaTreeNPS Prepare for temperature extremes and bedding for critters before use. for fl oodwaters to subside rather than trying to drive through. Email by dressing in layers. Highs in In hot weather, thirsty bees congregate [email protected] May might reach 100°F (38°C), while winter lows can plunge into around any source of moisture they can STAY OUT, STAY ALIVE Lost & Found the teens (-10°C). Hypothermia fi nd, including human perspiration Many old mine sites exist within the Report lost items on the park website at is a hazard even when the air and car AC systems. Stay calm around park. If you choose to visit them, use nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/lostandfound.htm temperature is above freezing. bees and do not swat at them. Keep extreme caution, appreciating them or email [email protected] Always have extra layers with you. drinks and food inside your vehicle. from a safe distance. Never enter old mine tunnels, shafts, or fenced areas. Please email comments or corrections: [email protected] Look out! The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA™ These rock climbers carry extra layers of Never put your hands or feet into rock crevices Many historic mine sites exist within Joshua clothing that allow for comfort and safety. or onto ledges where you can’t see. Tree National Park. Admire, but do not enter. Rules and Regulations

Watch wildlife respectfully No collecting park resources, including living or dead vegetation We recommend staying at least 25 yards (23 m) from wildlife. If an animal reacts It is the mission of the National Park Service to preserve all natural and cultural ö to your presence by changing its behavior, you are too close—even if you are more resources unimpaired for future generations. Please leave everything in the park than 25 yards from it. Move quietly away to give the animal space. Remember, the as it is for others to enjoy. Do not destroy, deface, dig, collect, or otherwise park is home for wild animals. We are just visitors here. disturb any park resources including plants or animals (whether they are dead or alive), rocks, fossils, or artifacts. Never feed any wild animals Consuming human food is unhealthy for wildlife and may encourage aggressive Rock climbing behavior. Coyotes, squirrels, ravens, and other animals should be left alone to rely Climbers may replace existing bolts if they are unsafe. New bolts may be placed in on natural sources of food. All food, trash, scented products, and cooking tools â non-wilderness areas if in accordance with the bolting checklist, available on the must be stored securely in a vehicle or hard-sided container. park website. Bolting in wilderness requires a permit. Hand drills only.

Travel responsibly with your pet All motor vehicles and bicycles must stay on roads Pets are allowed in the park, but their activities are restricted. Pets must be on a The desert environment is more fragile than it may look. The ruts and scars left leash at all times. They cannot go more than 100 feet (30 m) from a road, picnic by vehicles and bicycles illegally taken off-road can last for years or even decades. area, or campground. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails. Owners must never Red and green sticker dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs are prohibited in the park. leave a pet unattended or tied to an object. Bag and dispose of pet waste. Watch for tortoises No drones or remote controlled vehicles The desert tortoise is a threatened species that often dies from being hit by Remote controlled vehicles, including aircraft and rockcrawlers, are prohibited in cars. Drive carefully in the park: small tortoises on the road look a lot like rocks. Joshua Tree National Park. Drones and other remotely-operated craft can disturb Though tortoises typically stay underground during the winter months, fall visitors wildlife and disrupt the visitor experience. should still take care. Tortoises may drink from puddles on the roads after rains or take shelter from the hot sun under vehicles. Leave tortoises undisturbed. Campfi res Campfi res are allowed only in designated fi re rings or grills that are found in park Firearms and weapons , campgrounds and picnic areas. Campfi res are not allowed in the backcountry. Firearms may be possessed in accordance with California state and federal laws. Bring your own fi rewood and extra water to douse your campfi re. Do not use park However, they may not be discharged in the park. Fireworks, traps, bows, BB vegetation, living or dead, for fuel. guns, paintball guns, and slingshots are not allowed in the park.

2 Joshua Tree Guide What to See and Do D Backcountry Roads

Birding is a popular activity in the springtime when many different species may be visible on J o s h u a Tr e e ’s backcountry BERDOO CANYON ROAD their seasonal migration through the region. Read more on p. 8. roads allow properly equipped visitors 11.5 mi (18.4 km) within the park to explore remote areas of the park, Connecting the south end of Geology Th e d e s e r t i s at i t s b e s t w h e n IF YOU HAVE AN ENTIRE DAY: Tour Rd. with Dillon Rd. in the viewed up close and at a slow pace. • Drive through both the Mojave Desert but preparedness is crucial. Errors in Coachella Valley, this challenging road From a whizzing car, the landscape and the Colorado Desert by going from judgment can be deadly. Always ask a requires a high level of driver skill as may at first appear bleak or drab. the West Entrance to the South Entrance. ranger for current information about well as high clearance and four-wheel Closer examination, though, reveals See where Joshua trees grow in the road conditions before venturing out. drive; narrow wheel-base suggested. a fascinating variety of plants Mojave, in the western half of the park, and animals. Rocks sculpted by and observe the different vegetation of For your own safety and the protection PINKHAM CANYON ROAD the Colorado in the lower elevations of of natural features, all wheeled weather and time contrast with the 20 mi (32.4 km) one way vehicles (including bicycles) must brilliant blue of the desert sky. the Pinto Basin and Cottonwood areas. This challenging road begins at remain on designated roads. Off road • Attend a ranger-led activity like a patio Cottonwood Visitor Center, travels driving and riding are prohibited. Joshua Tree National Park has endless talk, guided walk, or evening program (p. along Smoke Tree Wash, and then opportunities for exploration and 12). If you’ll be visiting Thursday, Friday, turns south down Pinkham Canyon. discovery. Begin your trip at a park or Saturday, consider joining a ranger-led GEOLOGY TOUR ROAD 18 mi (29 km) loop Sections of the road run through soft visitor center, where a ranger will be Keys Ranch tour (fee). This route starts 2 mi (3.2 km) west of sand and rocky plains. High clearance happy to answer your questions and • Hike one or two of the park’s longer Jumbo Rocks. Pick up an interpretive and four-wheel drive are required; get you oriented. The two northern trails (p. 4). guide from the brochure box at the narrow wheel-base suggested. visitor centers are outside the park, in • Pleasant spring temperatures bring rock start. A round trip takes about two the communities of Twentynine Palms climbers to Joshua Tree from all over the hours. The first few miles of the road BLACK EAGLE MINE ROAD and Joshua Tree. See p. 7 for hours. world. Not a climber yourself? You may 9 mi (14.5 km) within the park are open to most vehicles, with four- still enjoy watching climbers in action This dead-end dirt road begins 6.5 mi wheel drive needed after marker 9. IF YOU HAVE A FEW HOURS IN THE PARK: around Hidden Valley Campground and (10.5 km) north of the Cottonwood • Drive between the West Entrance and Intersection Rock. Visitor Center. It runs along the QUEEN VALLEY ROADS North Entrance to see our famous 13.4 mi (21.7 km) total southern edge of Pinto Basin, Joshua trees and boulder fields. IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE DAY: Usually passable to all vehicles, this crossing several dry washes before • Drive to Keys View for a lovely vista of • Spend the night in one of our network of dirt roads crisscrosses reaching the park boundary. Beyond the Coachella Valley. On days with little campgrounds (p. 5). Or, if you have the a valley of boulder piles and Joshua that is BLM land. High clearance air pollution, you may be able to see right gear, experience, and fitness level, trees. The Queen Valley dirt roads are and four-wheel drive required. beyond the shining Salton Sea to Signal consider an overnight backcountry trip. popular with cyclists and dog walkers. Mountain in Mexico. • Explore the longer hiking trails around OLD DALE MINE ROAD • Enjoy a short walk on one or two of the Black Rock or Cottonwood (p. 4). COVINGTON FLATS ROADS 12.3 mi (19.8 km) within the park park’s nature trails (p. 4) to get an up- • If you have a mountain bike or high- 9 mi (21.7 km) total Starts at the same point as Black Eagle close look at desert scenery and plants. clearance vehicle, consider exploring a Covington Flats is home to some of the Mine Rd., but heads north across sandy • Kids of all ages are invited to participate backcountry road (descriptions at right) park’s largest Joshua trees, junipers, Pinto Basin, a dry lake bed. It then in our Junior Ranger program (p. 11). to experience parts of the park that most and pinyon pines. You can drive all climbs steeply to the park boundary. • Take a short side trip into the Pinto Basin visitors never see. The Geology Tour the way to the summit of Eureka Peak About 11 miles (17.7 k) north of the park, to visit the Cholla Cactus Garden and Road is often a great choice. Ask a ranger (5,518 ft/ 1,682 m) for panoramic views it connects with Hwy 62. High clear- Ocotillo Patch. for advice before leaving the pavement. from Palm Springs to the Morongo ance and four-wheel drive required; Basin. High clearance recommended. narrow wheel-base suggested. Leave No Trace l e av e j o s h u a t r e e p r i s t i n e f o r • In popular areas, concentrate use on • Avoid introducing or transporting BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS those who visit the park after you. existing trails and campsites. non-native species. • Respect other visitors and protect the Learn and practice the seven Leave • In pristine areas, disperse use to prevent • Do not build structures, furniture, or dig quality of their experience. No Trace principles. the creation of campsites and trails. trenches. • Be courteous. Yield to other users on the Avoid places where impacts are just trail. Hikers traveling uphill have right- PLAN AHEAD & PREPARE beginning. MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS of-way. • Know the regulations and special • Campfires are allowed only in estab- • Step to the downhill side of the trail concerns for the area you’ll visit. DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY lished metal fire rings in campgrounds when encountering pack stock. • Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, • Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your and picnic areas with fire grates. All • Take breaks and camp away from trails and emergencies. campsite and rest areas for trash or wood must be brought in from outside and other visitors. • Schedule your trip to avoid times of high spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover the park—no collecting. • Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud use. food and litter. • Keep your fire small. Put it out voices and noises. Respect campground • Visit in small groups when possible. • Deposit solid human waste in catholes completely before you leave your site. quiet hours. Consider splitting larger groups into dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet • No campfires in the backcountry. Use a smaller groups. from water, camp, and trails. Cover and lightweight stove for cooking. • Repackage food to minimize waste. disguise the cathole when finished. • Use a map and compass. Do not set up • Pack out toilet paper and hygiene RESPECT WILDLIFE rock cairns or other physical markers. products. These items do not break • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not down in the arid desert environment, follow or approach animals. TRAVEL & CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES even when buried. • Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife • Durable surfaces include established damages their health, alters natural trails and campsites, rock, and gravel. LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND behaviors, and exposes them to danger. • No camping in rock shelters or caves. • Preserve the past: examine, but do not • Protect wildlife and your food by storing • Allow wildlife free access to scarce desert touch, cultural or historic structures and rations and trash securely. Learn more about how to minimize water sources. Do not camp nearby. artifacts. • Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: recreation impacts and protect Joshua • Good campsites are found, not made. • Leave rocks, plants and other natural mating, nesting, raising young, or harsh Tree’s wildlands for the future. Talk Altering a site is not necessary. objects as you find them. weather conditions. to a ranger or visit www.LNT.org.

Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 February – May 2017 3 ç Hiking

Carefully review the safety information and regulations on ts on T On any desert hike, remember the Ten Essentials: Pe ra p. 2. There is no guarantee of safety in a national park. i • water • sturdy shoes o ls N • food • navigation (map & compass) Leave information about your planned route and expected • layers of clothing • pocket knife or multitool return time with a friend or family member before Help us protect wildlife • sun protection • flashlight or headlamp hiking. Check in with this person when you return. In an and keep pets safe • first aid kit • emergency shelter emergency, call 909-383-5651 or 911.

Trail Trailhead Location Distance Estimated Description Time Short Walks and Nature Trails Bajada South of Cottonwood Visitor 0.25 mi 15-20 minutes Loop. Walk on a bajada and discover plants of the Colorado Desert on this easy, accessible path. Center; 0.5 mi (0.8 km) north of (0.4 km) ô the South Entrance Barker Dam Barker Dam parking area 1.1 mi 1 hour Loop. Explore cultural history and view a water tank built by early cattle ranchers. Watch for bighorn sheep. (1.8 km)

Cap Rock Cap Rock parking area, at the 0.4 mi 30-45 minutes Loop. View boulder piles, Joshua trees, and other desert plants on this easy, accessible path. junction of Park Blvd. and Keys (0.6 km) ô View Rd. Cholla Cactus Garden 20 mi (32 km) north of 0.25 mi 15-30 minutes Loop. View thousands of densely concentrated, naturally growing cholla cactus. Stay on the trail, wear closed-toe Cottonwood Visitor Center (0.4 km) shoes, and be aware of prickly cactus.

Cottonwood Spring 1 mi (1.6 km) east of 0.1 mi 10 minutes Short walk to fan palm oasis with cottonwood trees. Fantastic birding location with plentiful shade. Cottonwood Visitor Center (0.2 km)

Discovery Trail Skull Rock parking area just east 0.7 mi 30-45 minutes Loop. Connects Skull Rock and Split Rock Loop trails at Face Rock. Easy hike through boulder piles and desert washes. of Jumbo Rocks Campground (1.1 km)

Hidden Valley Hidden Valley picnic area 1 mi 1 hour Loop. Discover a rock-enclosed valley that was once rumored to have been used by cattle rustlers. (1.6 km)

Hi-View Northwest of Black Rock 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from 1½ hours Loop. Discover the world of Joshua tree forests. Hike up a ridge on the western side of the park and take in panoramic Campground board at parking area. views of the area. There are some steep sections, as well as several benches to take a break and enjoy the view. 3 mi (4.8 km) from Elevation change is about 400 feet. visitor center. Indian Cove West end of Indian Cove 0.6 mi 30-45 minutes Loop. Walk on a gently rolling path with a few steps. Take a closer look at desert plants and learn about their Campground (1 km) traditional uses by Native Americans.

Keys View Keys View 0.25 mi 30 minutes Accessible overlook. Short, paved loop path is steeper and may be accessible with assistance. Breathtaking views of the ô (0.4 km) San Andreas Fault, Mt. San Jacinto, Mt. San Gorgonio, and the Salton Sea. Oasis of Mara Oasis Visitor Center, Twentynine 0.5 mi 30-45 minutes Loop. Explore a desert oasis on this easy, accessible walk. See how the Oasis of Mara has been used by wildlife and ô ` Palms (0.8 km) people throughout time. Ryan Ranch Ryan Ranch trailhead, about 1 mi 1 hour Out and back. Enjoy an easy hike along an old ranch road and see a historic adobe structure. 0.5 mi (0.8 km) east of Ryan (1.6 km) Campground Skull Rock Skull Rock parking area just east 1.7 mi 1-2 hours Loop. Take an easy hike and explore boulder piles, desert washes, and of course the namesake Skull Rock. of Jumbo Rocks Campground; (2.7 km) also accessible from within Jumbo Rocks Campground

Moderate Hikes

Fortynine Palms Oasis Fortynine Palms parking 3 mi 2-3 hours Out and back. There is a 300 ft (91 m) elevation gain in both directions, as you hike up and over a ridge dotted with area, accessed off Hwy 62 (4.8 km) barrel cactus. Beyond the ridge, descend to a fan palm oasis in a rocky canyon. Avoid this trail when it’s hot out.

Lost Horse Mine Lost Horse Mine trailhead 4 mi 2-3 hours Out and back. Explore around one of the most successful gold mines in the park. Stay outside the fenced area to protect off Keys View Rd. (6.4 km) the millsite and mine. For a longer option, see Lost Horse Loop, under Challenging Hikes. Elevation change is 550 feet.

Mastodon Peak Cottonwood Spring parking 3 mi 11-21 hours Loop. An optional rock scramble takes you to the top of a craggy granite peak. The trail then loops around past an old area (4.8 km) gold mine. Elevation change is about 375 feet.

Pine City Pine City trailhead at end of 4 mi 2-3 hours Out and back. The highlight of this fairly flat trail is a dense stand of junipers and pinyon. The trail also goes to an old Desert Queen Mine Rd. (6.4 km) mining site.

Split Rock Loop Split Rock picnic area 2.5 mi 11-21 hours Loop. Distance includes side trip to Face Rock. (4.0 km)

West Side Loop Black Rock 4.7 mi 2½-4 hours Loop. Explore the ridges and washes west of Black Rock campground. (7.6 km)

Wall Street Mill Barker Dam parking area 2 mi 11-21 hours Out and back. Travel to the remains of an historic gold milling site. Challenging Hikes — avoid these trails when(3.2 it’s km) hot out Boy Scout Trail North end: Indian Cove 8 mi 6 hours One way. Go deep into the Wonderland of Rocks. Stay on trail to avoid getting lost among the boulders. Most hikers backcountry board. South (12.9 km) prefer to start at the south trailhead, inside the West Entrance, and finish at Indian Cove. Vehicle shuttle strongly recom- end: Boy Scout Trailhead. mended for hikers interested in doing the full length of the trail. California Riding and Several. 35 mi 2-3 days to hike One way. Shorter hikes possible on sections of this long trail. Travel from Black Rock Canyon to the North Entrance of the Hiking Trail (56.3 km) entire length park, passing through a variety of Mojave Desert landscapes.

Lost Horse Loop Lost Horse Mine trailhead 6.5 mi 3-4 hours Loop. For a shorter option, see Lost Horse Mine, under Moderate Hikes. Elevation change is about 550 feet. off Keys View Rd. (10.5 km)

Lost Palms Oasis Cottonwood Spring parking 7.5 mi 5-6 hours Out and back. Enjoy sandy washes and rolling terrain, then hike down into a canyon to explore a remote fan palm oasis. area (12 km) Climbing back out of the canyon is strenuous. Elevation change is about 500 feet.

Panorama Loop Black Rock 6.6 mi 31-41 hours Loop. Gain about 1,100 feet (336 m) in elevation as you hike up a sandy wash, then follow the ridgeline of the Little San (10.6 km) Bernardino Mountains. Enjoy scenic views, dense Joshua tree forest, and pinyon-juniper woodland.

Ryan Mountain Parking area between Sheep 3 mi 11-21 hours Out and back. Gain 1,000 feet in elevation as you hike to the summit of Ryan Mountain. This is one of the most popular Pass and Ryan Campground (4.8 km) hikes in the park.

Warren Peak Black Rock 6.3 mi Out and back. Gain 1,000 ft (304 m) in elevation as you hike to the summit of Warren Peak. Enjoy panoramic views of (10.1 km) the quiet western part of Joshua Tree.

Willow Hole Boy Scout Trailhead 7.2 mi 4 hours Out and back. Mostly flat trail along the edge of the Wonderland of Rocks. Travel through Joshua tree forests, boulder (11.5 km) landscape, and sandy washes. Trail ends at willow trees.

4 Joshua Tree Guide − Camping

Visitors staying overnight in the park must camp in a designated campground Check in and check out are at noon. Camping fees must be paid within or backcountry camping area. Sleeping in your vehicle outside of a one hour of selecting a campsite. Quiet hours are from 10 pm-6 am. campground is prohibited, and there is no camping at roadside pullouts, Generator use is permitted only from 7-9 am, 12-2 pm, and 5-7 pm. trailheads, or along the side of the road. There is a 30-day camping limit each year. Only 14 of these nights may take place from October – May. All tents, tarps, and camping A maximum of six people, three tents, and two cars may occupy an individual equipment must be set up within 25 ft of the picnic table or fire campsite, if there is space. Some sites only have enough parking for one vehicle. grate at a site. Do not set up slacklines in campgrounds.

Number Fee Elevation Water Flush Pit Tables Fire Dump Campground of Sites Toilets Toilets Grates Station

Belle 18 $15 3,800 ft no no yes yes yes no

Black Rock 99 $20 4,000 ft yes yes no yes yes yes

Cottonwood 62 $20 3,000 ft yes yes no yes yes yes

Hidden Valley RVs and trailers may not exceed a combined 44 $15 4,200 ft no no yes yes yes no maximum length of 25 ft. Indian Cove 101 $20 3,200 ft no no yes yes yes no

Jumbo Rocks 124 $15 4,400 ft no no yes yes yes no

Ryan 31 $15 4,300 ft no no yes yes yes no

White Tank RVs and trailers may not exceed a combined 15 $15 3,800 ft no no yes yes yes no maximum length of 25 ft.

− Group Camping Can’t Find A Campsite? Reservations are required for group camping. Sites can accommodate Joshua Tree National Park has become an extremely popular destination in recent years. Due groups of 10-60 people and may be reserved up to a year in advance, to this popularity, all park campgrounds usually fill on weekend nights during the busy season, online at www.recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777. October through May.

If you arrive too late to get a site in a designated campground, you have the following options: Group camping is available at three locations in Joshua Tree National Park: • Camp on Bureau of Land Management land outside the park. • Cottonwood Group, elevation 3,000 ft (914 m). 3 sites, $35-40 depending on site • Go to a private campground or stay in lodging in gateway communities. capacity. Tents only. RVs and habitable trailers prohibited. • Indian Cove Group, elevation 3,200 ft (975 m). 13 sites, $35-50 depending on site Sleeping in your vehicle overnight along the roadside or at a backcountry registration board capacity. Can accommodate RVs or trailers, maximum combined length 25 ft. parking area is not allowed and violators may be subject to citation. • Sheep Pass Group, elevation 4,500 ft (1372 m). 6 sites, $35-50 depending on site For more information, pick up an Overflow Camping brochure at any visitor center or capacity. Tents only. RVs and habitable trailers prohibited. download one online at go.nps.gov/JTNPoverflow. I Equestrian Use 1 Backpacking Horseback riding is a popular way to experience the park. The Backcountry and Covering an area of more than 792,000 acres, almost 85% of which is managed as Wilderness Management Plan provides for more than 200 miles of equestrian wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park is a backpacker’s dream with its mild trails and trail corridors that traverse open lands, canyon bottoms, and dry winter climate and interesting landscape. By observing the guidelines below, washes. Many riding trails are already open, clearly marked, and ready to be your overnight venture into the backcountry should be safe and enjoyable. It is enjoyed. Other trails are in various states of development. Trail maps for the your responsibility to know and abide by park regulations and practice Leave No West Entrance area and for the Black Rock Canyon area are available. Trace principles (see information on p. 3).

Stock use is limited to horses and mules and is restricted to designated equestrian Register trails and corridors, open dirt roads, and shoulders of paved roads. Riders should You must self-register for a free permit at a backcountry board (for locations, see travel single file to reduce damage to soil and vegetation. Stock animals are not park map, pp. 6-7). Leave your vehicle parked at one of the park’s backcountry permitted within ¼ mile of any natural or constructed water source. Horses and boards, too. other stock are not permitted on nature trails, in the Wonderland of Rocks, in campgrounds, in picnic areas, or at visitor centers. A permit is required to camp Bring Water with stock in the backcountry; call 760-367-5545. Water sources in the desert are scarce and are reserved for wildlife. You must carry with you a supply of water adequate for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. The park has two equestrian campgrounds available only to visitors with This means carrying at least two gallons (about 8 liters) of water per person per horses. Reservations are required. day of your trip. • Ryan Horse Camp, elevation 4,300 ft (1,310 m), is open October–May. 4 sites, $15/night. No water. For reservations, call 760-367-5545. Setting Up Camp • Black Rock Horse Camp, elevation 4,000 ft (1,219 m), is open all year. 20 sites, Your backcountry camp must be located at least one mile (1.6 km) from the road $20/night. For reservations, call 1-877-444-6777. and 500 ft (152 m) from any trail.

For more information, please see the park website at For more infomation, pick up a backcountry camping brochure at any visitor go.nps.gov/horsebackriding or ask a ranger about horse use. center or download one online at go.nps.gov/JTNPbackcountry.

Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 February – May 2017 5 Arch Rock

Essential Information Map of Joshua Tree National Park

To Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 3mi 5km To Amboy 30mi 48km To Victorville and 15 53mi 85km To 40 48mi 77km S Getting Here Amboy Road H E Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern E Copper Mountain P 3071ft 1960ft California, about 140 miles east of Los Angeles, 247 2728ft 936m Adobe Rd 598m H 831m O 175 miles northeast of San Diego, and 215 miles Joshua Tree Visitor Center TWENTYNINE Oasis Visitor Center L JOSHUA E PALMS southwest of Las Vegas. Visitors may drive to TREE Arch M 3279ft 62 62 O Joshua Tree via Interstate 10 or Highway 62 999m Hi Desert Medical Center Indian Park Blvd Canyon Road Rock U YUCCA VALLEY White Feather Rd Cove Rd Oasis of Mara 62 (the Twentynine Palms Highway). The closest Yucca Trail Alta Loma Dr Entrance Station N Utah Trail Gold Crown Road T commercial airport is in Palm Springs. There is no A Palomar I public transportation to the park. Ave N Indian Fortynine Palms S Joshua T 2538ft y Cove W a Oasis 774m w L a h B E ig n L H a West o Sky’s the Limit MORONGO e N y Dates and Hours of Operation s Observatory C Entrance Station North T m S VALLEY al o P P a c Y n o Entrance Station The park is always open; visitors may come and go t r N ne e k u ni n t I y ta B T N nt o r at any time. However, several areas are designated e u a E Old Dale To Parker Black Rock Canyon R i Willow Hole w l 62 T o le 60mi 96km d ad v P Mining Queen Mountain v l for day use only. L ar 5677ft A O d B L District W 4000ft 1731m M ER k 1219m C r S

O Keys a Aqua Peak

V P M

I 4416ft

Entrance Fees N Ranch T

G

N 1346m T Quail Odelle Rd

Locked Barker Dam S O t $25 for a single, non-commercial vehicle. gate r L N Springs e s Eureka Peak e I F Queen Valley D T 5516ft L e $12 per motorcycle. C A Bighorn Pass Rd Rd v T 1682m T P ja rt Split Rock I o e L See map inset UP N M s $12 per person on foot, bicycle, or horseback. C P Quail Mountain Hidden Valley T e O E O ER O S D V 5814ft Hidden Valley M I N o for details IN Ca 1773m O U N T A d M G l Desert Queen Belle a i X TO fo Mine Rd or o N rn Skull ol ja ia C v FL Rock Live Also available: $40 Joshua Tree National Park e S A C D T R LOST HORSE VALLEY Sheep Pass Oak C A id Transition Zone Wilderness o e in Jumbo White Tank s O Annual Pass, $80 Interagency Annual Pass, lo e N g an In this ecological melting Congress has designated r r d Hiki Cap Rock== Rocks a t ng T pot, two great deserts, nearly 558,000 acres of do rai $10 Interagency Senior Pass for U.S. citizens l Ryan Mtn M D 5458ft the Mojave and Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park e or permanent residents ages 62 and over, free s B 1664m blend together in a vibrant as wilderness. Most of the e B r E landscape featuring plants park away from road t Ryan W Interagency Access Pass, free Interagency Military R Pinto Mountain and animals representative corridors is wilderness. If I Drive N L 3983ft S 1214m of both. you plan to venture into See map inset for Stirrup M Pass. Ask at an entrance station for more details. A Geology Tour O these areas, you must be DESERT R Road Tank N C familiar with special rules details Lost Horse O 62 HOT D A N and regulations governing Mine N S I SPRINGS I Y A wilderness use. N O To Marine Corps Air GroundB Combat Center 3mi 5km U To Amboy 30mi 48km 1100ft N 335m O P To Victorville and 15 53mi 85km LEA Ocotillo Patch N N. Indian Canyon Canyon Indian N. SA H Keys View NT O S 5185ft Cholla Cactus Garden T E h T To 40 48mi 77km 1581m s N Amboy Road a 117 M X I A H S VA W To P A LL I r I O y E e Los Angeles 120 N e Wa Y E v On i N E 98mi 158km U L

d d N ie P a S r in F o E A to R CopperT Mountain N Di B D llo A a e n s l P R i a Visitor Center Information E Ro 3071ft I M n 2957ft a D A d 1960ft 902m R S N O Adobe Rd o d a l 247 2728ft111 936m S d U O H 598m F A N 831m ad U T Ro L sh S O Visitor Center Hours of T A a e W in I M N e le N Operation 10 n ag I i Oasis E Visitor Center L B S Joshua Tree Visitor Center erdo ad TWENTYNINE p k Locked gate N o o c I Canyon R u la Desert Regional D rc B 10 miles ahead Medical CenterJOSHUA o E I PALMS P A Oasis Visitor Center O Monument Mountain h T 760-367-5500 daily 130 4834ft s TREE H a M PALM SPRINGS 1474m S I 62 W N 8:30 am – 5:00 pm 150ft 131 A 3279ft 74485 National Park Dr. 46m N L e 62 re L Smoke T U 999m Twentynine Palms, CA S O A O

Hi Desert Medical CenterN Kaiser Road 92277 D Indian Canyon Road R Park Blvd E ad M U A Ro YUCCA VALLEY on S ny 177 Cove Rd Ca Oasis of Mara 62

WhiteBob Hope Dr Feather Rd Entrance Station m Joshua Tree ha N Yucca Trail Alta Loma Dr CATHEDRAL Ave Monterey k F in daily CITY A P Visitor Center Eisenhower Utah Trail U Eagle Mountain E Gold Crown Road T 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Medical L Cottonwood Visitor Center 6554 Park Boulevard Center T 5350ft L 3079ft 1631m A T h 939m G Joshua Tree, CA 92252 e 142 r A Palomar m Cottonwood Spring RANCHO a l E I

MIRAGE C 906ft a 276m N CottonwoodAve n C North y O o DESERT CENTER 111 INDIO n T Visitor Center T O Lost Palms Oasis S R N S 192 daily PALM DESERT 146 Indian o W O I N C a FortynineO D M O U PalmsN T A 6 miles (10 km) inside d T

O Joshua 8:30 am – 4:00 pm John F. Kennedy 0 5 10 Kilometers A 2538ft y South Entrance; C Memorial Hospital Cove Oasis W a Bajada Nature Trail L 0 5 10 Miles H 774m w access from I-10 St Monroe S a E E h B A E To Blythe L ig n Off-road driving is prohibited L 35mi 56km 4000ft L E o Sky’s the Limit 10 H West A COACHELLA V MORONGO e Unpaved road Emergency phone Hospital Paved roadside N Black Rock -71ft E 1219m pullout y L -22m Observatory s V 168 Nature Center daily (except Friday) EntranceHigh clearance, StationRanger station Campground North T VALLEY lm 4-wheel drive road S A 111 CHIRIACO SUMMIT oad a open October – May P c L 86 R 1705ft Y 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Hiking trail Picnic area Group campground yon 520m P a L Entrance Stationan (reservations required) o x C 9800 Black Rock Canyon r E Bo N e Black Rock Canyon Backcountry board Self-guiding trail Drinking water k u Y in Friday (overnight registration) Road t To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km I n B To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km y Yucca Valley, CA 92284 8:00 am – 8:00 pm T N t La r n o e C u a E Old Dale To Parker o Willow Hole n i 62 w te l l 60mi 96km T n e d ta P v Mining R Queen Mountain v o l A a a d LO r 5677ft W d B L District

Black Rock Area Detail Map ER Hidden Valley & Jumbo Rocks Area Detail1731m Map M C O k

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L S A Springs t Hi-View Locked r T gate Wall L e Nature Trail a Street s C Odelle Rd Eureka Peak o Mill e Short5516ft Loop Trail n Desert 1682m te D n Echo T Queen West Side ta Hemingway Queen e R Valley Road v C C o Loop Trail a a Mine t d L ja C li O Bighorn Pass Rd Split P r O f o V o W I e L I U Eureka Peak r E Rock M s Black Rock N PP n R Hidden Valley N G TrailE i e O a QuailC Mountain T I Warren Canyon Trail TO R O Face O S D N R V 5814ft Rock Peak i IN N T d o F Desert Queen M I L G Mine Rd A i O A M T n T 1773m Hidden Valley Belle U N T d g a T O X N Hall of Discovery r o a Live lo j L n Horrors Trail o d F a L Oak C v A E H e C T Sheep Pass i Panorama Loop Trail k Skull C D i n Rock Transition Zone Wilderness o e g Oyster T White Tank s r O l a Bar Jumbo In this ecological melting Congress has designated o e i l Cap Rock Rocks ra rt S pot, two great deserts, nearly 558,000 acres of do Eureka Peak Ryan Ryan Mtn A 5516ft Ranch 5458ft M D 1682m 1664m the Mojave and Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park e N s blend together in a vibrant as wilderness. Most of the Ca Ryan e Note: lifor B C an nia landscape featuring plants park away from road r O d Rid W V U Hiki ing t Detailed hiking maps for this area IN P ng T Pinto Mountain G PE rail and animals representative corridors is wilderness. If are available at any visitor center T R I Drive O Lost Horse L 3983ft B N Mine Rd and outside Black Rock Nature F S 1214m of both. you plan to venture into L Geology Tour Stirrup O M Center. Do not rely onE this map AT Road Tank N these areas, you must be DESERT for route fi nding. R (4x4 recommended) C familiar with special rules 62 HOT N Lost Horse A N O Mine N I and regulations governing A to Keys View S SPRINGS Y A wilderness use. R O B U 1100ft N 335m D P LEA Ocotillo Patch N N. Indian Canyon Canyon Indian N. 6 Joshua Tree Guide I SA H Keys View NT O N 5185ft Cholla Cactus Garden T E h T O 1581m s N a 117 X I A S VA W To L I P A LE r I Los Angeles 120 Way Y E e N ne iv N 98mi 158km O L M d d e P ri i a S O F n o A t R o N U Di B D llo a e n s l R N i a E Ro M n 2957ft a D A d 902m S T R O o d A a l 111 d U O F I A N N ad U T Ro L S sh S T A a e W in I M N e le N 10 n ag I B S i E N erdoo oad p ck Locked gate I Canyon R u la Desert Regional D rc B 10 miles ahead Medical Center o I P A O

Monument Mountain h T 130 s H 4834ft a PALM SPRINGS 1474m S I W N 150ft 131 A 46m N L e re L Smoke T U S A O

N Kaiser Road D R E ad M A Ro on 177 S any C Bob Hope Dr m ha CATHEDRAL Ave Monterey nk F Pi CITY Eisenhower A U Eagle Mountain Medical L Cottonwood Visitor Center E Center T 5350ft L 3079ft 1631m T h 939m G e 142 r m Cottonwood Spring A a RANCHO l E

MIRAGE C 906ft a n C 276m North y O o DESERT CENTER 111 INDIO n T T O Lost Palms Oasis R N S 192 PALM DESERT 146 o W O I N

C a O D M O U N T A d O John F. Kennedy 0 5 10 Kilometers A Memorial Hospital C Bajada Nature Trail 0 5 10 Miles H Monroe St Monroe S E E L A To Blythe Off-road driving is prohibited L 35mi 56km L E 10 Unpaved road Emergency phone Hospital Paved roadside A COACHELLA V pullout -71ft E -22m L 168 High clearance, Ranger station Campground V 4-wheel drive road A 111 CHIRIACO SUMMIT ad L 86 Ro 1705ft Hiking trail Picnic area Group campground yon 520m L an (reservations required) C E Box Backcountry board Self-guiding trail Drinking water Y (overnight registration) To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km Arch Rock

To Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 3mi 5km To Amboy 30mi 48km To Victorville and 15 53mi 85km To 40 48mi 77km S Amboy Road H E E Copper Mountain P 3071ft 1960ft 247 2728ft 936m Adobe Rd 598m H 831m O Joshua Tree Visitor Center TWENTYNINE Oasis Visitor Center L JOSHUA E PALMS TREE M 3279ft 62 62 O 999m Hi Desert Medical Center Indian Park Blvd Canyon Road U YUCCA VALLEY White Feather Rd Cove Rd Oasis of Mara 62 Yucca Trail Alta Loma Dr Entrance Station N

Utah Trail Gold Crown Road T A Palomar I Ave N Indian Fortynine Palms S Joshua T 2538ft y Cove Arch W a Oasis Rock 774m w L a h B E ig 4000ft n H West o Sky’s the Limit MORONGO e N 1219m y s Observatory Entrance Station North T m S VALLEY al P P a c Y o Entrance Station Black Rock Canyon r N ne k u i t I yn Map of Joshua Tree NationalB Park T N t La r n o e C u a E Old Dale To Parker o Willow Hole n i 62 w te l l To Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 3mi 5km To Amboy 30mi 48km 60mi 96km T n To Victorville ande 15 53mi 85km d ta P To 40 48mi 77km S v Amboy Road Mining R Queen Mountain v H C o l A E a a a l d L E i O r 5677ft f d Copper Mountain B District o L P W 3071ft r 1960ft E Adobe Rd n R 247 2728ft 936m 1731m 598m M H i a C 831m O

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k L Barker Dam A i n A t g Palomar I r T Springs gate N L T Ave e r s a Indian S Eureka Peak i Fortynine Palms T e 5516ft l Joshua I y Cove W 2538ft 1682m a Oasis D 774m w L Queen Valley a h B E T ig n L e H a West o Sky’s the Limit C MORONGO e Bighorn Pass Rd N y v s Rd Observatory C Entrance Station North T a t VALLEY lm P S j T C a o c Y r P a P O n o Entrance Station o t r N V e e k u I e U in Split Rock M n t I s I P n N t B N L N P ty a T G E n o r e O Hidden aValley To Parker e Quail Mountain u E Old Dale T T R Black Rock Canyon R i Willow Hole w l 62 O T o le 60mi 96km d O E a S D N d v P Mining Queen Mountain v 5814ft Hidden Valley l A a N L r 5677ft B District o F O d I L M L W 1731m O A M A 4000ft E U N T d M T 1773m R Desert Queen k Belle

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Eureka Peak e I LOS LLEF Y SheepQueen Pass Valley D T T HO5516ftRSE VA L e C D Oak C A 1682m A Bighorn Pass Rd Rd av t T T P j r Transition Zone Wilderness Split Rock I o e o e L UP N M s e O C PE Quail Mountain Hidden Valley Jumbo WhiteT Tank s E O R O S D O l N V 5814ft Hidden Valley M I N o e IN Ca 1773m O U N T A d In this ecological melting Congress has designated o M G l Desert Queen Belle a i X TO fo Mine Rd or r r o Cap Rock==N rn Skull Rocks ol ja ia C a v FL Rock Live t e S C pot, two great deserts, nearly 558,000 acres of d AT R LOST LLEY Sheep Pass C D i HORSE VA Oak o A d Transition Zone Wilderness o e in Ryan Mtn Jumbo White Tank M s N O lo e g and In this ecological melting Congress has designated the Mojave and Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park D r r Hikin Cap Rock== Rocks a t g T 5458ft pot, two great deserts, nearly 558,000 acres of do rai e l Ryan Mtn the Mojave and Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park M B D 5458ft blend together in a vibrant as wilderness. Most of the e 1664m s s B 1664m blend together in a vibrant as wilderness. Most of the e B e r E landscape featuring plants park away from road B E t Ryan W r R Pinto Mountain and animals representative corridors is wilderness. If landscape featuring plants park away from road I W Drive 3983ft t N Ryan L S 1214m of both. you plan to venture into R Stirrup Pinto Mountain M A Geology Tour O these areas, you must be and animals representative corridors is wilderness. If DESERT Road Tank N I Drive R C L familiar with special3983ft rules N 62 Lost Horse O HOT D A S N and regulations governing you plan to venture into Mine N S I 1214m of both. SPRINGS I Y Stirrup A wilderness use. M N Geology TourO O To Marine Corps Air GroundB Combat Center 3mi 5km U To Amboy 30mi 48km A 1100ft N 335m O P Tank N these areas, you must be DESERT To Victorville and 15 53mi 85km LEA Ocotillo Patch N N. Indian Canyon Canyon Indian N. SA H R Keys View NT Road O S 5185ft Cholla Cactus Garden T familiar with special rules E C h T To 40 48mi 77km 1581m Lost Horse s N Amboy Road O a A 62 HOT 117 D M X A I H V W N S A P and regulations governing To L I I A L Nr I Los Angeles O Mine y E e 120 N e Wa Y E v S n 98mi 158km I O i Y N E L SPRINGS U A wilderness use. d d U e O P N N ri i a S n o B 1100ft F N E A to R CopperT Mountain N Di B 335m D ll A e o a l P O R n P s i a E Ro 3071ft I L M n Ocotillo Patch 2957ft N a E D A d A 1960ft 902m

N. Indian Canyon Canyon Indian N. S R N S A HO Adobe Rd o d Keys View a l 247 2728ft111 936m S N d U O H T 598m O

F Cholla Cactus Garden 5185ftA N T d 831m a h T U E T Ro 1581mL A sh s S O T a ine N W I M a A X N e le N I 117 10 M n ag I V i Oasis E Visitor Center L B S W Joshua Tree Visitor Center erdo ad TWENTYNINE p k Locked gate S N o o A c I Canyon R u la P To Desert Regional D L I rc B 10 miles ahead A Medical CenterJOSHUA L o r E I O I y E PALMS P e A Los Angeles 120 N O e Wa Y E v n i T 98mi 158km O Monument Mountain h N 130 U H 4834ft s L TREE a M PALM SPRINGS 1474m S I 62 W N 150ft 131 A d 3279ft 46m L d N ee e P 62 N L Tr i U a S Smoke See map inset r i O 999m S F n o A O A Hi Desert Medical CenterN for details t Kaiser Road R T D Indian Canyon Road o R N Park Blvd E ad M U D A Ro YUCCA VALLEY on i A S ny B 177 D ll Cove Rd Ca Oasis of Mara e 62 o a l WhiteBob Hope Dr Feather Rd n Entrance Station m R ha s N Alta Loma Dr CATHEDRAL Ave Monterey a Yucca Trail nk in 2957ft E R F Pi M o CITY I A A a Eisenhower Utah Trail D d U Eagle Mountain E Gold Crown Road T 902m Medical L Cottonwood Visitor Center R S Center N T 5350ft L 3079ft O 1631m o A T d h 939m G a l e 111 142 r A Palomar S m UCottonwood Spring d RANCHO a O l E I

F MIRAGE C 906ft a 276m N Ave A n C N North y O d o DESERT CENTER U 111 INDIO n T a T O o TLost Palms Oasis S R N S 192 R L PALM DESERT 146 Indian o W O I N h S C a FortynineO D M O U PalmsN T A s d A T a e T O Joshua John F. Kennedy in 0 5 10 Kilometers A W 2538ft y C Memorial Hospital Cove Oasis I W M a Bajada Nature Trail L 0 5 10 Miles H e e Monroe St Monroe N l N 774m w S g 10 a E E n h B A E i a To Blythe L E ig n Off-road drivingI is prohibited L S 35mi 56km 4000ft L B E p o er Sky’s the Limit 10 H West A COACHELLA do V ad k Locked gate MORONGO e UnpavedN road Emergency phone Hospital Paved roadside o o N u c I -71ft CE n R y o 1219m pullout L any la Desert Regional -22m Observatory c s V 168 r B 10 miles ahead EntranceHigh clearance,D StationRanger station Campground North T o VALLEY lm Medical Center 4-wheel drive road S A 111 CHIRIACO SUMMIT oad P a P c L 86 R 1705ft Y Hiking trail I Picnic area Group campground yon 520m A P a L Entrance Stationan C (reservations required) o E x C O r Bo O N e Black Rock Canyon Backcountry board Self-guiding trail Drinking water k u Y n (overnight registration) T Monument Mountain T i t To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km I h n To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km T y 130 B T O 4834ft N s t L H a PALM SPRINGS a o r N n 1474m S To Parker e C S u a W E N W N Old Dale o I Willow Hole 150ft n i O O A I 62 w 131 t A l D N T e l M O U 60mi 96km T n L e 46m N d ta P e v e Mining R L Queen Mountain v Tr U o l A a a Smoke d LO r 5677ft District W S d B L A ER Hidden Valley & Jumbo Rocks Area Detail1731m Map Cottonwood Area DetailM Map O Kaiser Road C N O D k

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CATHEDRAL Ave Monterey A Springs t Locked r T F gate Wall e CITY A Street s Eisenhower Odelle Rd Eureka Peak U Mill e 5516ft Desert Medical 1682m L E D Hemingway Echo T Queen Queen Cottonwood Visitor Center Eagle Mountain e T C Center Valley Road 5350ft L v Mine 3079ft 1631m ja t C Bighorn Pass Rd Split P r O T 939m o V U h I G e L IN P Rock N M s P Hidden Valley e G E Mastodon Peak e O T R Quail Mountain142 r Face T I O m Loop Trail O A D N 5814ft Rock S T RANCHO a E N o F l Desert Queen M I L Mine Rd O A A 1773m Cottonwood Spring U N T d M T Hidden Valley Belle a T MIRAGE Hall of C Discovery 906ft r X o a 276m lo j L Horrors n Trail Live o North a y Oak C v E o DESERT CENTER C e n 111 INDIO Sheep Pass Skull

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R o e Oyster 192 PALM DESERT 146 o White Tank s O l C Bar a Jumbo In this ecological melting Congress has designated o e Cap Rock d r O Rocks ra t S John F. Kennedy pot, two great deserts, nearly 558,000 acres of 0 d 5 10 Kilometers A Ryan Ryan Mtn o A Memorial Hospital Ranch 5458ft M D C 1664m the Mojave and Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park 0 e 5 N 10 Miles H

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Drive COACHELLA Unpaved road Emergency phone Hospital Paved roadside Lost Horse L 3983ft B E Mine Rd pullout -71ft S 1214m of both. you plan to venture into -22m L Geology Tour Stirrup O M E 168 High clearance, Ranger station Campground V Road Tank N 10 these areas, you must be DESERT CHIRIACO SUMMIT R A 111 (4x4 recommended) 4-wheel drive road C familiar with special rules 1705ft O 62 HOT N L 86 Lost Horse A Road 520m Hiking trail Picnic area Group campground anyon N and regulations governing L Mine N x C I SPRINGS (reservations required) A E to Keys View Y Bo S O A wilderness use. U 1100ftBackcountry board Self-guiding trail Drinking water R Y N B 335m(overnight registration) D PL To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km N To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km EA Ocotillo Patch N. Indian Canyon Canyon Indian N. I Emergency:S dialA 909-383-5651 H February – May 2017 7 Keys View NT O N 5185ft Cholla Cactus Garden T E h T O 1581m s N a 117 X I A S VA W To L I P A LE r I Los Angeles 120 Way Y E e N ne iv N 98mi 158km O L M d d e P ri i a S O F n o A t R o N U Di B D llo a e n s l R N i a E Ro M n 2957ft a D A d 902m S T R O o d A a l 111 d U O F I A N N ad U T Ro L S sh S T A a e W in I M N e le N 10 n ag I B S i E N erdoo oad p ck Locked gate I Canyon R u la Desert Regional D rc B 10 miles ahead Medical Center o I P A O

Monument Mountain h T 130 s H 4834ft a PALM SPRINGS 1474m S I W N 150ft 131 A 46m N L e re L Smoke T U S A O

N Kaiser Road D R E ad M A Ro on 177 S any C Bob Hope Dr m ha CATHEDRAL Ave Monterey nk F Pi CITY Eisenhower A U Eagle Mountain Medical L Cottonwood Visitor Center E Center T 5350ft L 3079ft 1631m T h 939m G e 142 r m Cottonwood Spring A a RANCHO l E

MIRAGE C 906ft a n C 276m North y O o DESERT CENTER 111 INDIO n T T O Lost Palms Oasis R N S 192 PALM DESERT 146 o W O I N

C a O D M O U N T A d O John F. Kennedy 0 5 10 Kilometers A Memorial Hospital C Bajada Nature Trail 0 5 10 Miles H Monroe St Monroe S E E L A To Blythe Off-road driving is prohibited L 35mi 56km L E 10 Unpaved road Emergency phone Hospital Paved roadside A COACHELLA V pullout -71ft E -22m L 168 High clearance, Ranger station Campground V 4-wheel drive road A 111 CHIRIACO SUMMIT ad L 86 Ro 1705ft Hiking trail Picnic area Group campground yon 520m L an (reservations required) C E Box Backcountry board Self-guiding trail Drinking water Y (overnight registration) To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km Visiting On the Wing

Over 250 species of birds have been identified at Joshua Tree, including these commonly-seen species. Left to right: black-throated sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata), turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii), ladder-backed woodpecker (Picoides scalaris), greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus), cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus), loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), phainopepla (Phainopepla nitens).

Duck s , pe l ic a ns , avocet s … you In addition to the unexpected are found throughout the park. lizards, tarantulas, and other small don’t have to be a birder to know waterfowl and shorebirds, colorful animals. Lacking the talons of a raptor, that these are not your typical desert songbirds are also passing through Beautiful spring wildflowers attract shrikes will use the sharp vegetation birds. But it’s spring at Joshua Tree the park. Many varieties of warblers birds as well as humans to the desert, to spear their prey like a shish kabob. National Park, which means that can be seen and heard at Cottonwood and you can find several species of “typical” isn’t the order of the day. As Spring in their easier-to-identify hummingbirds sipping the nectar of For serious birders, no bird is more the weather warms in the northern breeding plumage. You may also see the flame-red chuparosa flower or sought-after than a Le Conte’s hemisphere, the birds are on the the brilliant yellows and oranges of the pale pink blossoms of the desert thrasher, which lives in the park move again. With more than 250 orioles as they return to the park for willow. Phainopeplas prefer berries year-round but is only commonly different bird species identified in the the summer. A flash of blue could be from the less-showy desert mistletoe spotted in the spring as it calls out park, Joshua Tree is a great place for a western bluebird or a California that grows in parasitic clumps on to prospective mates. Look for it beginning and advanced birders alike. scrub jay. Overhead, large black shrubs and trees. The phainopepla near the Cottonwood Visitor Center The park lies along a major migration turkey vultures soar along the is one of the most commonly seen and Black Rock Campground. Tiny corridor, and its proximity to the thermals without once flapping their birds in the park this time of year and verdins are another great bird you may Salton Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and wings. Hawks, falcons, and eagles is easily recognized by the crest on check off your life list here. The little the Gulf of California explains why will also circle high overhead, so pay its head and its silky black feathers. gray birds have a distinctive yellow you might spot a fish-eating bird like particular attention to the size and the face and are very gregarious, often an egret by the roadside in spring. shape of the bird’s wings as it flies. Spring is also the time for a lot of seen flitting through the thorny trees birds to build their nests. If you stop outside the Oasis Visitor Center. When looking for birds, don’t forget in at the Cholla Garden, you may to look down as well as up. Two of encounter a cactus wren weaving its Whether you’re a beginning birder the park’s most charismatic avian nest among the inhospitable spines or a lifelong aficionado, now is a residents are more often seen running of teddy bear chollas. Loggerhead great time to go birding in the desert. than flying. Gambel’s quail with shrikes will also build their nests in So grab your binoculars and your their signature black plumes are thorny vegetation, using the plants’ favorite field guide, and enjoy spring often spotted in larger groups called defense mechanism as protection for at Joshua Tree National Park. Keep an eye out for birds not typically seen in coveys, while the speedy roadrunner their own young. Shrikes will also use the desert, like this great egret (Ardea alba). is a solitary creature. Both birds the thorns and spikes of yuccas to hold by Park Ranger Beth Hudick Fragments of the Past

Th e p r i m e va l l a n d s c a p e o f and tortoises nearly four feet long fully accepted until years later. around us to be unchanging, but Joshua Tree National Park makes roamed the landscape. These grazers the fossils and artifacts found here it easy for your imagination to attracted the attention of predators like Around 10,000 years ago, as the allow us to piece together a picture run wild. Envision giant beasts dire wolves and saber-toothed cats. Pleistocene ended, this region’s of a past that is very different from lumbering across the valleys and climate began to change dramatically. today. As the events of the past huge predators prowling between Turning our attention to humans, Temperatures rose, precipitation become clearer, we gain a better the boulders. Even reptiles grew traces of Paleoindian habitation patterns changed, and streams and understanding of how environmental to outlandish proportions. dating to nearly 10,000 years have lakes began to dry up. The plants changes affect life and insight into also been found by researchers. and animals living here faced an what change may mean for the future. Preserved in the dusty sediments In the 1930s, Elizabeth Campbell, uncertain future. Some species of the Pinto Basin are fossils and along with her husband William, adapted to changing conditions Climate change caused by humans will artifacts that tell the story of Joshua began to study archeological sites while others moved to more suitable undoubtedly continue to impact the Tree’s past. During the Pleistocene they identified along an ancient, areas. Those unable to adapt or move plants, animals, and people of Joshua Epoch, from 1.6 million to 11,700 years dry streambed. With no other water went extinct. It is during this period Tree National Park in the future. ago, the area that is now Joshua Tree sources in the vicinity, Elizabeth that many large mammal species Which species will be able to adapt National Park was a very different determined that environmental factors went extinct across the continent. to the changes? Which will move to place. By studying these fossils, such as water availability influenced other areas? Which will go extinct? paleontologists gain an understanding human settlement patterns. As the environment changed around of what this area was like long ago. them, the adaptable Paleoindians Research into past events is crucial Today, this idea is fundamental to who relied on a variety of game to preparing a plan for the future. If During the Pleistocene, braided archeology, but in the 1930s it was animals, plants, seeds, and nuts began you come across a fossil or prehistoric stream systems and isolated lakes in revolutionary—especially coming to use more diverse resources, and artifact in the park, please leave it the Pinto Basin provided ample water from a woman. Archeology at that enlarged the range of their nomadic in place and report it to a ranger. for large herds of prehistoric bison, time focused mainly on artifacts and movements in order to survive. by Brad Sutton camels, llamas, and horses. Giant prehistoric technology; as a result, ground sloths, hulking mammoths, Elizabeth’s conclusions were not We often imagine the landscape Visit Joshua Tree Visitor Center to view the full-sized mural artwork shown here.

8 Joshua Tree Guide Joshua Tree’s Boulders th e b o u l d e r s a n d r o c k formations of Joshua Tree National Park defi ne the park landscape. The rocks catch the eye of climbers, photographers, hikers, and motorists. Most everyone asks, “What are they?” “Where did they come from?” or “What’s with all the strange shapes?”

WHAT ARE THEY? Many visitors think the rocks look like layers of sandstone, but they are actually a kind of granite, not unlike the rock commonly used for countertops. Granites are igneous in origin, meaning they formed when hot, molten fl uids within the earth’s crust gradually cooled into hard rock.

Most granites in the park are a particular type called “monzogranite.” Joshua Tree’s monzogranites solidifi ed beneath the surface of the Earth starting about 245 million 1. Parallel sets of fractures formed in the hard 2. The edges and corners of buried rock blocks 3. Erosion carried away the small particles of years ago, with the youngest rocks monzogranite while it was still underground. became rounded as water broke the rock down broken-down rock, exposing the rounded rocks formed over 100 million years ago. Water began infi ltrating along the cracks. into smaller particles. that had once been beneath the surface.

WHERE DID THEY COME FROM? The liquid granite couldn’t force itself WHAT’S WITH ALL THE STRANGE SHAPES? to form sets of X-shaped cracks About 250 million years ago— all the way up to the surface, so the In many places in the park, the standing at angles in the granite. before the dinosaurs came to granite stalled and formed huge, ball- boulders appear as if some gigantic All the fractures were avenues for dominate the planet—the thick shaped masses within the ancient rock. child piled them up. Some boulders rainwater to seep downward through North American plate began riding Over a long period of time, the great have carved faces, are shaped like the rocks to etch and shape and round over the thinner Pacifi c Plate. The blobs of granite cooled and hardened. animals, or take other fanciful forms. the originally angular blocks into the water-rich oceanic plate was forced varied forms seen today in the park. under the continent at an angle. The ancient rock, called gneiss (pro- Cracks in the rocks and water nounced “nice”), began to erode. are the keys to the appearance During the last Ice Age, the climate Water at depth, where temperatures are Over millions of years, the gneiss of our rocks today. was cooler and wetter; rainwater was extremely hot, helped to melt the rock has completely vanished from the abundant. Much of the water etching into granitic magma. It was hot, liquid, surface in most of the park. The Horizontal stresses from the collision occurred then. No glaciers existed and lightweight, and was able to ooze gneiss, dark in color, does remain of tectonic plates created sets of this far south at these elevations, so upward along deep-seated cracks in the exposed on mountain tops. Younger parallel, vertical fractures within glaciers were not a factor in making crust that had been fractured by the and lighter-colored monzogranites the buried rock. Later, mountain the landscape we see today. fi erce crunching of the charging plates. are seen in the valley bottoms. building pushed the rocks upward by Dar Spearing, Ph.D.

Fun Facts What Makes Joshua Tree about Joshua National Park Signifi cant? Trees Joshua Trees, of Course! Where the Pacifi c Plate Meets the Joshua Tree National Park preserves a North American Plate world-renowned, undisturbed population Joshua Tree National Park lies along of Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), an one of the world’s most active tectonic integral component of the Mojave Desert boundaries, the San Andreas Fault. ecosystem. Geologic processes, including tectonic activity, have played and continue to play Transition Between Two Deserts a major role in shaping the mountains, Outstanding examples of Mojave and valleys, and basins of the park. Colorado Desert landscapes converge at Joshua Tree National Park to create Scientifi c Study a biologically rich system of plant and Joshua Tree National Park offers animal life characterized by iconic Joshua unparalleled opportunities for research • Joshua Tree National Park is named • A Joshua tree has spiky, succulent tree woodlands, native palm oases, and of arid land ecosystems and processes, after the Joshua tree, an iconic plant leaves, but it is not a cactus. It is a vast expanses of creosote scrub that are adaptations of and to desert life, of the Mojave Desert. member of the agave family. uniquely adapted to desert conditions. The sustainability, and indications of climate • Joshua trees are not found in every • Climate change threatens Joshua park also contributes signifi cantly to the change. The proximity of the park to part of Joshua Tree National Park, trees. Less available water means connectivity of large protected areas across urban regions of Southern California and nor are they found only in the park. fewer young Joshua trees can grow. the California desert. Nevada enhances the value of the park for They grow throughout much of the • The inside of a Joshua tree is fi brous scientifi c research and education. Mojave Desert. and has no growth rings. That makes Desert Wilderness Close to Major • Rangers’ favorite places for viewing it hard to know how old it is! Some Urban Areas Bouldered Landscape Joshua trees include Black Rock and researchers think a typical lifespan Joshua Tree National Park provides Huge, eroded monzogranite boulder the Juniper Flats area along the road for a Joshua tree may be 150 years. accessible and diverse opportunities in formations are world-renowned natural to Keys View. Our Joshua tree forest • According to legend, Mormon a remote desert wildland to large and features that provide unique aesthetic, is densest in the northwestern part pioneers considered the limbs of burgeoning urban populations. educational, and recreational opportunities of the park, at elevations of about the Joshua trees to resemble the for Joshua Tree National Park visitors. History and Cultural Traditions 4,000-4,200 feet (1,200-1,280 m) upstretched arms of Joshua leading Joshua Tree National Park preserves a Beautiful Scenery above sea level. them to the promised land. rich array of prehistoric, historic, and Geologic, climatic, and ecological • The tallest Joshua tree in the park is • The cover photo for the 1987 U2 contemporary resources that demonstrate processes create scenic landscapes called the “Barber Pole.” It stands album The Joshua Tree was not taken the integral connection between deserts, unique to deserts and fundamental to the about 43 ft (13 m) tall along the park in Joshua Tree National Park, but land use, and human cultures. character of Joshua Tree National Park. road in Queen Valley. closer to Death Valley.

Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 February – May 2017 9 The Desert Unsung Climate Change Effects (continued from p. 1) sand and gravel during flash floods. This ensures young trees get started at a time when moisture is available—a must for survival in the desert. on Water Resources Park physical scientists have launched a long-term study to monitor the effects Ironwood is a favorite of Park Ranger Cynthia Anderson. “Ironwood is the of climate change on water resources in Joshua Tree National Park. Water is a ultimate desert tree,” she says. “It’s strong, it’s resilient, it thrives in what crucial desert resource that sculpts and forms the surrounding landscape and we think of as a harsh environment.” ecosystems … but for something so important, it can be hard to find.

Strong indeed: the wood of the ironwood tree is hard and so dense Where is all the desert water? Aquifers deep beneath the surface are that it sinks in water. The wood also has a very fine grain, thanks to the tapped by decades-old wells drilled by homesteaders. Canyon spring ironwood’s slow growth rate. Though its water-sipping habits make oases form when groundwater rises to the surface along geologic faults. it well-adapted for desert life, ironwood is sensitive to hard freezes, Ephemeral creeks and washes are scoured by flash floods after rains. so you won’t find it in the higher-elevation Mojave Desert. Small reservoirs behind old dams fluctuate and often go dry.

Smoketree is another beloved desert species that doesn’t care for the cold. Data loggers have been installed in five drilled wells and at two fan “What I like best about it is that it actually looks like smoke,” says Patty palm oases to collect water level measurements over the next two Gerhardt, the superintendent’s secretary. “And when it blooms, it’s and a half years. As land use and climate change exert increasing completely covered in flowers.” pressure on water supplies, the monitoring of water resources is key for understanding and predicting impacts on wildlife and vegetation. Smoketree Wash north of the Cottonwood Visitor Center is one place to admire these multi-trunked trees. They are a pale gray-green in color, with by Stacy Manson, Physical Science Technician spiny twigs and few if any leaves. In a smoketree, photosynthesis takes place mostly in the twigs—it’s chlorophyll that lends that green tinge.

You can see this adaptation even more dramatically in blue palo verde, which drops its small leaves in dry periods in order to save water. The trunk and branches of palo verde trees are bright green and can make food from sunlight using photosynthesis. “It’s a brilliant, water- and energy-saving adaptation to have your chlorophyll in your branches and trunk,” says Anderson.

She adds, “Blue palo verde is a bee wonderland! When these trees bloom, they are alive with bees. We have an estimated 550-650 species of bees in the park and they just love the yellow blossoms.”

All three of these trees are an important source of food and shelter for wildlife. They also serve as “nurse trees,” helping shade the vulnerable seedlings of other plant species until they become established.

Before Joshua Tree was established as a national monument in 1936, conservation advocate Minerva Hoyt proposed calling it Desert Plants National Park in recognition of the rich diversity of species found here. The diversity exists because of the park’s location along the transition between two ecologically distinct deserts, characterized by different plant communities.

The Colorado Desert may not have famous rock songs written about it, but park rangers love it. Visit, and perhaps you too will sing its praises.

Devices used to measure ground water levels have been installed around the park in order to by Cathy Bell, Editor better understand park water resources.

Night Sky Almanac Report Damage to Park Resources Rangers regularly offer programs APR. 7 – JUPITER AT OPPOSITION about night sky and our relation- Jupiter will be at its closest ap- ship with it. proach to Earth and brighter than any other time of year. Four of Ju- Check ranger program listings on piter’s moons should be visible with p. 12 or at any visitor center for binoculars. information about upcoming programs or events. APR. 10 – FULL MOON

FEB. 11 – FULL MOON APR. 22-23 – LYRID METEOR SHOWER This meteor shower should produce FEB. 26 – NEW MOON about 20 meteors per hour. The best With the moon dark, this is the best viewing will be after midnight. time of the month for viewing the Conservators at work removing graffiti from historic Barker Dam, spring 2015. As recently as 2011, there was no graffiti on this structure; by 2014 the dam was almost completely defaced. Milky Way and star clusters. APR. 26 – NEW MOON If you see anyone committing an illegal act Increasing popularity brings more and MAR. 12 – FULL MOON MAY 6-7 – ETA AQUARID METEOR SHOWER like vandalism or looting: more people to Joshua Tree National Park Earth passes through the dust of every year. Most visitors are respectful, but MAR. 20 – VERNAL EQUINOX • Do not approach them. Halley’s Comet. We may see 30 me- there are the few who decide to leave a last- The first day of spring in the North- • Note time, location, and other details teors per hour. ing impact on the park. ern Hemisphere. Day and night are including descriptions, and license approximately equal length. MAY 10 – FULL MOON plate/vehicle information. Take In recent years, park managers have been pictures if possible. forced to close areas due to excessive MAR. 28 – NEW MOON MAY 17 – MERCURY AT GREATEST WESTERN • Contact park staff as soon as possible vandalism. Some resources have been ELONGATION at the nearest visitor center or damaged to the extent that they can never APR. 1 – MERCURY AT GREATEST EASTERN Mercury reaches its highest point entrance station. You may also report be fully cleaned or replaced. ELONGATION above the horizon in the morning vandalism by calling park dispatch toll Mercury reaches its highest point Despite its apparent harshness, the desert sky. Look for it low in the east just free at 909-383-5651 or 911. above the horizon in the evening is a land of extreme fragility. All parts of before sunrise. sky. Look for it low in the west after We are all stewards of this land. If we the park are protected by federal law. And sunset. want it to be here for future generations, remember: graffiti in a national park MAY 25 –NEW MOON we must keep it safe today. is not art.

10 Joshua Tree Guide Joshua Tree National Park Association Park Partner Be a Part of the Adventure The Joshua Tree National Park Association has been supporting preservation, scientifi c research and education at Joshua Tree National Park since 1962. As the park’s primary non-profi t partner, we operate four visitor center bookstores that are often the fi rst stop for visitors from around the world; offer a fi eld institute with classes taught by experts in natural sciences, cultural history and the arts; and raise funds for the park though public events and our membership program. Join us and make the most of your Joshua Tree experience! Connect with Nature Whatever your passion, you’ll learn more about Joshua Tree National Park at our visitor center bookstores. Wildfl ower identifi cation, climbing and hiking guides, birding, geology, stargazing, native plants, and local history are just a few of the topics included in our great selection of books. And don’t forget the kids: we have games, activity books, everyone’s favorite desert animals and Junior Ranger gear. Start your journey now at our online store, www.joshuatree.org/store/ Experience the Great Outdoors Pick up a trail guide in the bookstore, or sign up for a Desert Institute fi eld class and make the park your classroom. If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, a custom program will ensure a perfect fi t! Classes are not offered in the summer months, but take home a schedule and plan ahead. Become a Member Join the Joshua Tree National Park Association and you’ll support park programs and projects while enjoying some great benefi ts. Our members are a committed group of supporters whose contributions each year help the park fulfi ll its educational, interpretive, and research plans. As a member you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting youth programs, scientifi c research and the park’s historical collections, and you will assist in the preservation of our fragile desert environment for generations to come.

Your annual membership includes these benefi ts: • 15% discount on merchandise at Joshua Tree National Park Association bookstores, with reciprocal bookstore discounts at many other National Parks • Keys Views, our JTNPA newsletter, and a monthly e-newsletter update on park events • Invitations to special events • $10 discount off every Desert Institute class

Please ask for a membership brochure at one of the Joshua Tree Visitor Centers or call 760-367-5535. www.joshuatree.org

Preparing for Be a Junior Ranger Kids of all ages are invited to special Junior Ranger participate in Joshua Tree National Discovery Walk on Changing Weather Park’s Junior Ranger program. Sunday mornings — Spring visitors to Joshua Tree National Park must prepare for a wide variety at 9:30 just meet of conditions. Elevations range from 506 ft (154 m) to 5,814 ft (1,772 m) above Kids can earn a Joshua Tree Junior at the Skull Rock sea level. The measurements shown in the average monthly precipitation and Ranger badge by completing parking area. temperature chart are based on data from Twentynine Palms, elevation 1,960 ft the offi cial activity book. Stop (597 m). At higher elevations, expect temperatures to be 7-12°F cooler than by any park visitor center or If attending a ranger program shown. While averages are shown, any individual day may be much hotter, entrance station to pick one up. isn’t possible, kids can fulfi ll this much colder, or much wetter than expected based on these long-term averages. requirement by learning from exhibits In addition to completing age- in a visitor center or along a trail. appropriate activities in the booklet, Annual Weather Averages kids are asked to attend a ranger- The Junior Ranger program is designed led program such as a patio talk, for kids ages 4-14, but anyone can Precipitation Temperature guided walk, or evening program do it. (Older “kids” should expect (see schedule, p. 12). We even off er a to be asked to do more activities!) January 0.52 in. (1.3 cm) 40°-60° F (4°-15.5° C)

February 0.59 in. (1.5 cm) 42°-65°F (5.5°-18.3° C)

March 0.45 in. (1.1 cm) 46°-70°F (7.8°-21° C)

April 0.13 in. (0.3 cm) 52°-80°F (11°-26.7° C)

May 0.09 in. (0.2 cm) 48°-88°F (8.9°-31° C)

June 0.01 in. (0.03 cm) 70°-96°F (21°-35.5° C)

July 0.48 in. (1.2 cm) 75°-102°F (23.9°-38.9° C)

August 0.81 in. (2.1 cm) 72°-100°F (22.2°-37.8° C)

September 0.4 in. (1 cm) 68°-96°F (20°-35.5° C)

October 0.2 in. (0.5 cm) 55°-82°F (12.8°-27.8° C)

November 0.2 in. (0.5 cm) 45°-70°F (7.2°-21° C)

December 0.58 in. (1.5 cm) 40°-62°F (4°-16.7° C)

Emergency: dial 909-383-5651 February – May 2017 11 Ranger Programs Ranger-led interpretive programs Please dress in layers to prepare are a great way to have fun for changing conditions. Wear and learn about the park! closed-toe shoes to protect your feet. Carry plenty of water with Programs start promptly at the you. For evening programs, bring times noted below, so arrive a extra warm layers and a fl ashlight. few minutes early to allow time for parking. Children under Programs take place outdoors, but age 16 must be accompanied by may be canceled or moved inside an adult. Ranger programs are during inclement weather or free unless otherwise noted. if there is a danger of lightning. Ranger Sarah Jane Pepper leads a tour around the Keys Ranch property.

Meeting Duration, Program Sun. Mon. Tue. Wed. Thur. Fri. Sat. Location Distance Fossil Chat February 5 - April 30 Joshua Tree Visitor Center 9:00 am - 9:00 am - Discover the past, present, and future of our diverse drop-in by the back patio mural 10:00 am 10:00 am ô desert ecosystems.

Joshua Tree Visitor Center 15-30 min 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am Patio Talk February 5 - April 30 Ranger’s choice! Learn about one of many fascinating Oasis Visitor Center 15-30 min 10:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am ô aspects of the park. Cottonwood Visitor Center 15-30 min 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm

Artists’ Tea February 5 - April 30 (except April 16) Meet a local artist! Find inspiration and see how the artistic Cap Rock parking area 9:00 am - community can help protect and promote the beauty of Joshua (off Keys View Rd. at Park Blvd. drop-in 11:00 am Tree National Park. Bring your own mug to enjoy a free cup of intersection) tea. Participating artists vary from week to week. Mastodon Peak Hike February 5 - April 30 Cottonwood Springs 2-3 hours Discover the early mining history of the park. This hike has 9:00 am parking area 3 mi (4.8 km) steep grades and is strenuous. Cottonwood Springs Chat February 5 - April 30 Cottonwood Springs 9:00 am - Drop by for a casual conversation with a ranger. Bring your drop-in parking area 10:30 am questions about Cottonwood Springs and the Colorado Desert.

Joshua Tree Rocks! February 5 - April 30 1-1.5 hours Skull Rock parking area 9:30 am Examine the geology of this remarkable area. 1 mi (1.6 km)

Desert Refl ections February 5 - April 30 Join a ranger for an interactive discussion about an issue Oasis Visitor Center 1-1.5 hours 10:00 am ô facing the park. Check at a visitor center for topics. Cholla Garden Chat February 5 - April 30 10:00 am - Drop by for casual conversation with a ranger. Bring your Cholla Cactus Garden drop-in 11:30 am questions about the Cholla Cactus Garden and the Pinto Basin. Jr. Ranger Discovery Walk February 5 - April 30 1-1.5 hours Especially for families with children! This short hike will help Skull Rock parking area 9:30 am .7 mi (1.1 km) kids on their way to earning a Jr. Ranger badge. Cap Rock Nature Trail “I Speak for the Trees” Walk February 5 - April 30 1 hour (off Keys View Rd. at Park 2:00 pm Take a walk with a ranger and discover the park’s namesake. 0.4 mi (0.6 km) Blvd. intersection) Keys Ranch Tour February 5 - April 30 (ask at Oasis Visitor Center about additional dates) Explore the colorful story and numerous artifacts of this premier historical site. Tickets are required. Keys Ranch Gate 1.5 hours 2:00 pm 2:00 pm 2:00 pm Tickets must be purchased in person on the day of the tour tickets required 0.5 mi (0.8 km) at the Oasis Visitor Center from 8:30 am - 12:00 noon. Adults (12 & up) $10; Senior Pass or Access Pass holders $5; children ages 6-11 $5; children under 6 free. Keys View Chat February 5 - April 30 2:00 pm - Drop by for a casual conversation with a ranger about Keys View overlook drop-in 4:00 pm ô the San Andreas Fault and park geology. Oasis Walk February 5 - April 30 1-1.5 hours Explore the history and ecology of a desert oasis. Oasis of Mara Visitor Center 3:00 pm ô 0.5 mi (0.8 km)

Feb. Feb. Jumbo Rocks Campground 7:00 pm; 7:00 pm; Amphitheater 45 min Mar.-Apr. Mar.-Apr. Evening Program February 5 - April 30 Relax beneath the stars and enjoy a presentation about the 8:00 pm 8:00 pm park’s fascinating natural or cultural history. Check at a visitor Feb. Feb. Cottonwood Campground center for topics. 7:00 pm; 7:00 pm; Amphitheater 45 min ô Mar.-Apr. Mar.-Apr. February 5 - April 30 8:00 pm 8:00 pm

Full Moon Hike see specifi c dates at right check at a visitor center 1.5 hours Mar. 12 Apr. 10 May 10 Feb. 11 Explore the park after dark with a ranger. for location 1 mi (1.6 km) 8:00 pm 8:00 pm 8:00 pm 7:00 pm

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Joshua Tree National Park 74485 National Park Drive Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 POSTAGE HERE

Emergency Dial 909-383-5651 or 911

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