Top 6 Things to Do in Joshua Tree

Yucca Valley is a desert wanderland (pun intended) for adventurous spirits! If you're staying at Wander Joshua Tree, be sure to fill up your itinerary with these fun activities!

Joshua Tree National Park (Self-Guided)

Photo by Joshua Tree National Park Association

• Distance from Wander Joshua Tree: 13 miles

• Location: Joshua Tree Visitor Center, 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Self-Guided-Driving-Tour-of-Portland/d648-259648P14?pid=P00072130&uid=U00224743&mcid=58086

Joshua Tree National Park is a vast protected area in southern California. It's characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes, making it a popular destination among hikers and visitors. To make your trip extra special, we recommend going on a self-guided audio tour of the park to see its highlights.

Half-Day Guided Hike in Joshua Tree National Park

Photo by Wandering Mojave

• Distance from Wander Joshua Tree: 13 miles

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park, CA 92252

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/1-2-Day-Hike-in-Joshua-Tree-National-Park/d648-237571P1?pid=P00072130&uid=U00224743&mcid=58086

Now if you want to see and experience Joshua Tree National Park up close, you might want to embark on a guided hiking tour courtesy of a local guide! This private tour can be customized according to your group's needs and skill level.

Expect the tour to last for about 5 hours. Alternatively, you may also arrange for a full-day hiking tour if you'd like more time to see the wonders of Joshua Tree's flora and fauna.

Family Rock Climbing Trips in Joshua Tree National Park

Photo by Stone Adventures

• Distance from Wander Joshua Tree: 13 miles

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park, CA 92252

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Family-Rock-Climbing-Trips-in-Joshua-Tree-National-Park-4-hours/d648-91873P6?pid=P00072130&uid=U00224743&mcid=58086

You don't have to worry about leaving your kids somewhere if you wish to explore the national park. This guided and private rock climbing tour is suitable for all ages so if you wish to keep your kids active, this is the activity for you!

They have specialty children's gear including small climbing helmets, sticky rubber baby shoes, and full body harnesses for smaller climbers. A professional rock climbing guide and a wilderness first aid responder will be there during the tour too.

Just don't forget to bring plenty of water and some extra clothes. Note that national park entrance fees are paid separately.

Desert Nature Walk + Soundbath & Meditation in a Boulder Cave

Photo by Joshua Tree Alchemy

• Distance from Wander Joshua Tree: 13 miles

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park, CA 92252

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Desert-Nature-Walk-Soundbath-and-Meditation-in-a-Boulder-Cave/d648-313241P1?pid=P00072130&uid=U00224743&mcid=58086

Fun fact: Joshua Tree is considered a sacred place to indigenous tribes, meaning they share an intimate connection with the land. In this guided experience, you’ll be led to a hidden cave for a nature walk, sound bath, and guided meditation session.

As a bonus, there's also a nearby plunge pool, which you'll have access to. This experience is perfect for those looking for a unique and relaxing retreat!

Sip Wine and Paint at Wander Joshua Tree

Photo by Alex Maceda

• Location: Wander Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley

In the mystical scenery of Joshua Tree, artist Alex Maceda will artfully guide you through connecting with your creative side while you sip on local wines or a kombucha selection. You have two options available: Painting & Poetry Workshop or Sunset Meditative Painting.

This experience is exclusive to Wander Joshua Tree guests. To find out more details, text Wander Concierge at 737-377-3205.

Stargazing and UFO Tours

Photo by Tony and Molli Rathstone

• Distance from Wander Joshua Tree: 0-20 miles depending on the tour

• Location: Varies depending on the tour 

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Stargazing-and-UFO-Tours/d648-328436P2?pid=P00072130&uid=U00224743&mcid=58086

Stargazing is an absolute must when visiting Joshua Tree. The dark skies over the desert make it ideal for stargazing and perhaps UFO sightings!

In this experience, a local stargazing guide will tell you the history and legends of stargazing. It's a private experience good for up to 4 people.

The experience will be located in Joshua Tree National Park, and you'll be informed of the exact location after booking. Tip: if you wish to have a private stargazing activity right from the comforts of Wander Joshua Tree's viewing deck, contact Wander Concierge for more info!

We can't wait for you to explore all the wonders that Joshua Tree has to offer, from stargazing activities to rock climbing! Our concierge desk is available to chat 24/7 if you have questions about the house or the activities above. See you soon!