Joshua Tree National Park desert, California’s sandbox

Los Angeles presents itself with exciting multitude of various vibrant neighborhoods and natural wonders. We oftentimes take one of these wonders for granted – the desert. A vast expanse of space so open somehow manages to hide the most unique attributes in plane sight. Joshua Tree National Park – is an absolute must visit item on your itinerary if you’re on your way to P.S. (Palm Springs). Located about an hour north of P.S. is a surreal palate of vivacious colors that will undoubtedly inspire any adventurer.  A journey where you may get lost in Joshua Tree National Park – one of many California’s treasures.

Why is it called Joshua Tree National Park ?

Seemingly monotonous and dry during the scourging heat of the day – the desert is a Pandora’s box during the dawn and dusk. I could ramble on and on how astonishing this desert is, although I think a picture worth a thousand words, scroll down to check out the most incredible colors you will ever witness nature produce.

The 15 minute Sunset at Joshua Tree National Park – probably the most incredible and dynamic light show anyone will ever have a pleasure to watch. Hold on, but why is it called Joshua Tree? – well it’s all because of the –  Yucca brevifolia – aka yucca palm, tree yucca.

Yucca brevifolia

Native to the arid southwestern United States, specifically California, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada, where it is confined mostly to the Mojave Desert

Get lost in extraterrestrial colors of Joshua Tree National Park

Maroon to carmine to crimson to Imperial red to blood orange, followed by apricot to California poppy orange and then peach orange to pumpkin orange followed  Pinot Noir violet,  and then magenta to vivid violet, to electric violet, to lavender and then mauve ….

I’m lost for words trying to describe this phenomenal passionate and fiery visual stimulation – in fact, the sunset at Joshua is probably the best definition of passion. Rich, remarkably vivid yet smooth and transcendent.

Is it a good idea to wonder the desert and get lost in Joshua Tree National Park?

Figuratively speaking – I would recommend getting lost in Joshua Tree National Park  to anyone seeking inspiration. Although do keep in mind that it’s a desert and if you do get lost – this might have a lethal consequence. Always be aware of where you are in the park and try not to wonder off too far away from the roads. Here’s an article about people getting lost in the park as recent at 2017. 

Photographer’s paradise is closer than you might think. In fact it is only 2-3 hours away from LA, located in Joshua tree national park. Be awed and amazed by picturesque desert from dusk till dawn. You have a chance to capture this natural wonder the best during the Golden Hour. (Check out our suggestion on shooting during the Golden hour here)

Joshua Tree Visitor Center

Don’t forget to swing by the Joshua Tree Visitor Center for detailed info on the park and weather updates. It’s your chance to get a detailed briefing from the park ranger so that you won’t actually get lost in Joshua Tree National Park

I would love to come back here again with video camera and tape the sun set. I have honestly never seen colors like this! Nature’s primal pallet is revealed in during the golden hour of sunrise and sunsets and its a pleasure to witness it real time. Another really awesome place to photograph the sunset is at the Aerial Tramway to Mt. San Jacinto near Palm Springs.

Visiting Joshua Tree with children

Note: It can be scorching hot during the day and absolutely frigid during the night, so come prepared! The temperature can reach over 110F / 40C during the day. We highly discourage bringing little children to this location especially during the day. Dehydration and heat stroke can occur even in the car – especially the little ones are highly susceptible to temperature changes.

Also, keep in mind – what if you have a car emergency. Not all the area of the park have cell phone service – in fact the most of the park doesn’t. It is unwise to wonder the place on your own, since every year there’s someone lost in the desert. The heat can and will adversely effect your cognitive abilities so please stay cautious. 

Check out Cabazon outlet on your way back to Los Angeles.