“Home to the national park that’s known for fantastical rock formations and Seussian forests, the High Desert town of Joshua Tree is accessible from either side of the Coachella Valley.
From Palm Springs, follow Interstate 10 West to Highway 62 and take in the views as you sidewind up the mountain through Morongo and Yucca valleys. Alternatively, Interstate 10 East will lead you through the wide-open desert landscape to Cottonwood Visitor Center at the south end of the park; from there, Pinto Basin Road takes you past photo-ops at the Ocotillo Patch, Cholla Cactus Garden, and Smoke Tree Wash as you ascend to higher elevation.
The surrounding High Desert towns — Yucca Valley, Pioneertown, Flamingo Heights, Landers, and Twentynine Palms — include more natural beauty, curious stops, and great desert-style shopping, food, and libations to enjoy along the way…”
