Joshua Tree / Hi-Desert Guidebook
Attractions / Activities
A few of my favorite hikes, museums, theaters and places to explore in the Hi-Desert.
The star attraction to the high desert, this renowned desert park draws campers and hikers from across the globe with its geologic wonders & signature Joshua trees. Early arrival through the main entrance in Joshua Tree is recommended. If it’s too crowded or late in the day, you can drive up to the 29 Palms entrance, which rarely has a wait time. The most popular trails are Barker Damn, Hidden Valley, Ryan Mountain, Lost Horse Mine, Warren Peak and 49 Palms Oasis.
1713 locals recommend
Joshua Tree National Park
The star attraction to the high desert, this renowned desert park draws campers and hikers from across the globe with its geologic wonders & signature Joshua trees. Early arrival through the main entrance in Joshua Tree is recommended. If it’s too crowded or late in the day, you can drive up to the 29 Palms entrance, which rarely has a wait time. The most popular trails are Barker Damn, Hidden Valley, Ryan Mountain, Lost Horse Mine, Warren Peak and 49 Palms Oasis.
Located near the downtown portion of the unincorporated community of Joshua Tree, the visitor center offers exhibits and a park store for those wanting a keepsake to remind them of the wonder they just experienced. Visitors often find themselves at this location as it serves as the main gateway to the park.
418 locals recommend
Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center
6554 Park BlvdLocated near the downtown portion of the unincorporated community of Joshua Tree, the visitor center offers exhibits and a park store for those wanting a keepsake to remind them of the wonder they just experienced. Visitors often find themselves at this location as it serves as the main gateway to the park.
Born in Snow Hill, Alabama in 1917, Noah Purifoy lived and worked most of his life in Los Angeles and Joshua Tree, California, where he died in 2004. He received an undergraduate degree from Alabama State Teachers College in 1943 and a graduate degree from Atlanta University in 1948. In 1956, just shy of his 40th birthday, Purifoy earned a BFA degree from Chouinard, now CalArts.
His earliest body of sculpture, constructed out of charred debris from the 1965 Watts rebellion, was the basis for 66 Signs of Neon, the landmark 1966 group exhibition on the Watts riots that traveled throughout the country. As a founding director of the Watts Towers Art Center, Purifoy knew the community intimately. His 66 Signs of Neon, in line with the postwar period’s fascination with the street and its objects, constituted a Duchampian approach to the fire-molded alleys of Watts. This strategy profoundly impacted artists such as David Hammons, John Outterbridge and Senga Nengudi. For the 20 years that followed the rebellion, Purifoy dedicated himself to the found object, and to using art as a tool for social change.
In the late 1980s, after 11 years of public policy work for the California Arts Council, where Purifoy initiated programs such as Artists in Social Institutions, which brought art into the state prison system, Purifoy moved his practice out to the Mojave desert. He lived for the last 15 years of his life creating ten acres full of large-scale sculpture on the desert floor. Constructed entirely from junked materials, this otherworldly environment is one of California’s great art historical wonders.
549 locals recommend
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
62975 Blair LnBorn in Snow Hill, Alabama in 1917, Noah Purifoy lived and worked most of his life in Los Angeles and Joshua Tree, California, where he died in 2004. He received an undergraduate degree from Alabama State Teachers College in 1943 and a graduate degree from Atlanta University in 1948. In 1956, just shy of his 40th birthday, Purifoy earned a BFA degree from Chouinard, now CalArts.
His earliest body of sculpture, constructed out of charred debris from the 1965 Watts rebellion, was the basis for 66 Signs of Neon, the landmark 1966 group exhibition on the Watts riots that traveled throughout the country. As a founding director of the Watts Towers Art Center, Purifoy knew the community intimately. His 66 Signs of Neon, in line with the postwar period’s fascination with the street and its objects, constituted a Duchampian approach to the fire-molded alleys of Watts. This strategy profoundly impacted artists such as David Hammons, John Outterbridge and Senga Nengudi. For the 20 years that followed the rebellion, Purifoy dedicated himself to the found object, and to using art as a tool for social change.
In the late 1980s, after 11 years of public policy work for the California Arts Council, where Purifoy initiated programs such as Artists in Social Institutions, which brought art into the state prison system, Purifoy moved his practice out to the Mojave desert. He lived for the last 15 years of his life creating ten acres full of large-scale sculpture on the desert floor. Constructed entirely from junked materials, this otherworldly environment is one of California’s great art historical wonders.
Next to the National Park and Pappy’s, the Integratron is probably most famous attraction in the high desert. It’s located a ways out in Landers, so book you tickets well in advance. The sound bath sessions are transformative and well worth the money if you go in with an open mind.
737 locals recommend
Integratron
2477 Belfield BlvdNext to the National Park and Pappy’s, the Integratron is probably most famous attraction in the high desert. It’s located a ways out in Landers, so book you tickets well in advance. The sound bath sessions are transformative and well worth the money if you go in with an open mind.
Pioneertown is a Hoot! This is an old western movie street built in the 1940's by a group of western stars, including Roy Rogers. Definitely worth a drive in from Highway 62 if you're near Yucca Valley. The 'town' claims to have had 200 movies and TV shows shot there.
11 locals recommend
Mane Street
Mane StreetPioneertown is a Hoot! This is an old western movie street built in the 1940's by a group of western stars, including Roy Rogers. Definitely worth a drive in from Highway 62 if you're near Yucca Valley. The 'town' claims to have had 200 movies and TV shows shot there.
Designed and built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1941 and based on sacred geometry, the 400 acre compound offers a cafe, pool, sculpture garden and several buildings for meditation, yoga, book readings and various retreats.
49 locals recommend
Institute of Mentalphysics
59700 Twentynine Palms HighwayDesigned and built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1941 and based on sacred geometry, the 400 acre compound offers a cafe, pool, sculpture garden and several buildings for meditation, yoga, book readings and various retreats.
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
11055 East DriveFree, rustic hiking trails in Pioneertown. One of the few hikes in the Hi-Desert where you’re welcome to bring your dog.
85 locals recommend
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve
51010 Pipes Canyon RdFree, rustic hiking trails in Pioneertown. One of the few hikes in the Hi-Desert where you’re welcome to bring your dog.
Jeff Hafler began collecting hair and beauty artifacts and memorabilia when he was 19 in beauty school, in 1991. The collection now contains thousands of pieces of “hair-aphernalia” and can be seen at his salon and museum in Joshua Tree, California. The collection has been recognized world wide as one of the foremost hair and beauty museums in America and Jeff’s story has been archived in the Library of Congress.
The salon is open Sundays through Wednesday by appointment ONLY. Appointments can be made by calling 760-366-9000.
Quality haircuts, modern coloring techniques and classic styling services are offered. COVID-19 safety compliant. One client at a time. Temperature check and masks, and waivers are required.
We also have a gift shop featuring quality hair products, vintage accessories and collectibles, Mikal Winn Designs jewelry and unique Beauty Bubble souvenirs. The gift shop and museum are open to the public Thursday-Sunday 12-6pm. Masks & social distancing required.
“Come on down to The Beauty Bubble!”
48 locals recommend
Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum
61855 Twentynine Palms HighwayJeff Hafler began collecting hair and beauty artifacts and memorabilia when he was 19 in beauty school, in 1991. The collection now contains thousands of pieces of “hair-aphernalia” and can be seen at his salon and museum in Joshua Tree, California. The collection has been recognized world wide as one of the foremost hair and beauty museums in America and Jeff’s story has been archived in the Library of Congress.
The salon is open Sundays through Wednesday by appointment ONLY. Appointments can be made by calling 760-366-9000.
Quality haircuts, modern coloring techniques and classic styling services are offered. COVID-19 safety compliant. One client at a time. Temperature check and masks, and waivers are required.
We also have a gift shop featuring quality hair products, vintage accessories and collectibles, Mikal Winn Designs jewelry and unique Beauty Bubble souvenirs. The gift shop and museum are open to the public Thursday-Sunday 12-6pm. Masks & social distancing required.
“Come on down to The Beauty Bubble!”
One of the more popular yoga studios in Yucca Valley.
64 locals recommend
Cedar & Sage Wellness Studio
55833 Twentynine Palms HighwayOne of the more popular yoga studios in Yucca Valley.
They’re a small, independent, owner-operated rock climbing guide service dedicated to providing the most personalized, safe and fun rock climbing adventures in Joshua Tree National Park. With our 5 hour ½ days, NO time limit full days, gourmet lunches, low guest to guide ratios and a staff of committed Joshua tree locals, a day with Cliffhanger Guides is hard to beat.
From the first time beginner to the experienced rock climber, individuals and small groups, technical instruction or play days, we play with kids age 6-106 years old.
Beyond that, we are professional adventurers and we will make sure you and your family or group have the time of your lives.
25 locals recommend
Cliffhanger Guides - Joshua Tree Rock Climbing Adventures
6551 Park BlvdThey’re a small, independent, owner-operated rock climbing guide service dedicated to providing the most personalized, safe and fun rock climbing adventures in Joshua Tree National Park. With our 5 hour ½ days, NO time limit full days, gourmet lunches, low guest to guide ratios and a staff of committed Joshua tree locals, a day with Cliffhanger Guides is hard to beat.
From the first time beginner to the experienced rock climber, individuals and small groups, technical instruction or play days, we play with kids age 6-106 years old.
Beyond that, we are professional adventurers and we will make sure you and your family or group have the time of your lives.
Hi-Desert Nature Museum
57090 Twentynine Palms HighwayWell maintained cat cafe in the heart of Yucca Valley. A must for cat lovers looking to interact with some frisky feline friends.
Save the Meow Meows Cat Lounge
Well maintained cat cafe in the heart of Yucca Valley. A must for cat lovers looking to interact with some frisky feline friends.
Restaurants and bars
Hungry? Thirsty? Here are my recommendations for some of the best restaurants and bars in the area.
One of the most renowned restaurants in the high valley. This popular restaurant is a global destination for foodies and was written by the New York Times. Book your reservations well in advance.
725 locals recommend
La Copine
848 Old Woman Springs RdOne of the most renowned restaurants in the high valley. This popular restaurant is a global destination for foodies and was written by the New York Times. Book your reservations well in advance.
One of the best restaurants in the Hi-Desert and they take reservations. Great date night spot. Outdoors seating only, dress accordingly.
319 locals recommend
Kitchen in the Desert
6427 Mesquite AveOne of the best restaurants in the Hi-Desert and they take reservations. Great date night spot. Outdoors seating only, dress accordingly.
All of our organic meats + fish are cooked on our amazing outdoor grill with Mesquite Wood. Everything is cooked to order. We only have one grill with only so much space, so food can take longer than usual on nights with high volume. For some reason we are usually hit with very large groups which can slow us down and make the wait for tables longer than normal. You are very important to us and we want nothing more than to accommodate you and have the best time possible. Outdoor seating is available during the spring, summer and part of fall. There are MANY Places to sit at Pappy’s, but only certain areas to dine. Stroll around Pioneertown, sit out in our beer garden, or hang out and listen to music. Some of the shows are free some have a cover charge. We have Live Music every night we are open. All different genres. Check our events page and plan ahead. Remember..It’s only Rock~n~Roll..relax and enjoy!
1340 locals recommend
Pappy & Harriet's
53688 Pioneertown RdAll of our organic meats + fish are cooked on our amazing outdoor grill with Mesquite Wood. Everything is cooked to order. We only have one grill with only so much space, so food can take longer than usual on nights with high volume. For some reason we are usually hit with very large groups which can slow us down and make the wait for tables longer than normal. You are very important to us and we want nothing more than to accommodate you and have the best time possible. Outdoor seating is available during the spring, summer and part of fall. There are MANY Places to sit at Pappy’s, but only certain areas to dine. Stroll around Pioneertown, sit out in our beer garden, or hang out and listen to music. Some of the shows are free some have a cover charge. We have Live Music every night we are open. All different genres. Check our events page and plan ahead. Remember..It’s only Rock~n~Roll..relax and enjoy!
Sky High Pie
The best pizza in the Hi-Desert!
The Joshua Tree Saloon has been a family Owned and Operated Saloon since 1983! A local watering hole for over 30 years! Serving up JT's finest Burgers and the Coldest beer in town. A Bar & Grill located at the Gateway to the National Park!
This special, unique, one of a kind western atmosphere is waiting for you! Enjoy a game of pool or a game of hotspot, while enjoying one of our 14 beers ON TAP, a Hot JT Irish Coffee, or a fresh spring Mojito. INDULGE in one of our famous Bloody Mary's..... with Buzz's homemade bloody mary mix!!
We open at 9:00 am Daily & lunch begins at 10 am. We have a Large Variety of options to choose from; from an amazing Southwest Garden Burger to a Flame grilled 16 oz. Bone in Ribeye. All of our meat is Grass Fed.
Winners of the “Taste of Morongo” for 2012 & 2013 Fish Tacos, 2014 Jambalaya!!
Visit the world renowned Joshua Tree National Park, where you can enjoy a day of rock climbing, bouldering, hiking, biking or doing nothing but watching a beautiful sunset!!
The Joshua Tree location has been a stopping point for many a traveler since 1949, visited by many celebrities, writers, artists and all walks of life!
909 locals recommend
Joshua Tree Saloon
61835 Twentynine Palms HighwayThe Joshua Tree Saloon has been a family Owned and Operated Saloon since 1983! A local watering hole for over 30 years! Serving up JT's finest Burgers and the Coldest beer in town. A Bar & Grill located at the Gateway to the National Park!
This special, unique, one of a kind western atmosphere is waiting for you! Enjoy a game of pool or a game of hotspot, while enjoying one of our 14 beers ON TAP, a Hot JT Irish Coffee, or a fresh spring Mojito. INDULGE in one of our famous Bloody Mary's..... with Buzz's homemade bloody mary mix!!
We open at 9:00 am Daily & lunch begins at 10 am. We have a Large Variety of options to choose from; from an amazing Southwest Garden Burger to a Flame grilled 16 oz. Bone in Ribeye. All of our meat is Grass Fed.
Winners of the “Taste of Morongo” for 2012 & 2013 Fish Tacos, 2014 Jambalaya!!
Visit the world renowned Joshua Tree National Park, where you can enjoy a day of rock climbing, bouldering, hiking, biking or doing nothing but watching a beautiful sunset!!
The Joshua Tree location has been a stopping point for many a traveler since 1949, visited by many celebrities, writers, artists and all walks of life!
The Crossroads Cafe is a classic American Diner, located on 29 Palms Hwy, near the main entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. We offer a wide variety of traditional diner fair to go along with unique specials that are all made from scratch and made with love. In addition, our menu is filled with great options for folks with dietary restrictions of any kind. From our savory bacon pancakes to the classic hamburger, from our fish tacos to homemade vegan chorizo & eggs, our menu has something for everyone. Happy trails and always pack water into the park!
688 locals recommend
Crossroads Cafe
61715 Twentynine Palms HighwayThe Crossroads Cafe is a classic American Diner, located on 29 Palms Hwy, near the main entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. We offer a wide variety of traditional diner fair to go along with unique specials that are all made from scratch and made with love. In addition, our menu is filled with great options for folks with dietary restrictions of any kind. From our savory bacon pancakes to the classic hamburger, from our fish tacos to homemade vegan chorizo & eggs, our menu has something for everyone. Happy trails and always pack water into the park!
One of the top breakfast and lunch spots in the High Desert. As with all quality restaurants in the area, you can expect long wait times during peak hours on the weekend, so plan ahead and go early.
307 locals recommend
Country Kitchen
61768 Twentynine Palms HighwayOne of the top breakfast and lunch spots in the High Desert. As with all quality restaurants in the area, you can expect long wait times during peak hours on the weekend, so plan ahead and go early.
Looking for quick grab and go quality food, coffee and beverages? Roadrunner is the best Joshua Tree has to offer. It’s a little pricey, but it’s worth it.
106 locals recommend
Roadrunner Grab+Go
6554 Park BlvdLooking for quick grab and go quality food, coffee and beverages? Roadrunner is the best Joshua Tree has to offer. It’s a little pricey, but it’s worth it.
Yucca Kabob and Hookah
57345 Twentynine Palms HighwayWorld class, family-run Middle Eastern Cuisine.
Only of the better lunch spots for healthier, quality sandwiches, salads, juices and coffee beverages. Not much of a vibe, so maybe order for pick up/to go?
The Yucca Tree Eatery
Only of the better lunch spots for healthier, quality sandwiches, salads, juices and coffee beverages. Not much of a vibe, so maybe order for pick up/to go?
The Tiny Pony Tavern
Giant Rock Meeting Room & Coffee House
1131 Old Woman Springs RdWorld class bakery in 29 Palms. Get there early and prepare to wait in line (it’s worth it).
117 locals recommend
Campbell Hill Bakery
73491 Twentynine Palms HighwayWorld class bakery in 29 Palms. Get there early and prepare to wait in line (it’s worth it).
Next to Sky High, the next best pizza in the Hi-Desert.
137 locals recommend
2 Guys Pies Brick Oven Pizzeria
56969 Yucca TrailNext to Sky High, the next best pizza in the Hi-Desert.
Next to Pappy’s (which can have excessive long wait times) Red Dog the best watering hole in Pioneertown. Their tacos and queso are also fantastic.
223 locals recommend
The Red Dog Saloon
53539 Mane StNext to Pappy’s (which can have excessive long wait times) Red Dog the best watering hole in Pioneertown. Their tacos and queso are also fantastic.
Great little grab and go spot for high-end coffee, pastries, sandwiches, snacks and beverages. Friendly staff and apparently catering is their expertise.
191 locals recommend
The DEZ fine food - grab & go
61705 Twentynine Palms HighwayGreat little grab and go spot for high-end coffee, pastries, sandwiches, snacks and beverages. Friendly staff and apparently catering is their expertise.
grnd sqrl
73471 29 Palms HighwayRemarkably good Indian Food (family run). Haven’t tried the pizza.
298 locals recommend
Sam's Indian Food & Pizza
61380 Twentynine Palms HighwayRemarkably good Indian Food (family run). Haven’t tried the pizza.
El Guero Mexican Restaurant
57109 Twentynine Palms Highway29 Palms Inn
73950 Inn AveLuna Bakery
One of three World class bakeries
The Copper Room
Cactus Trails Cafe
6341 Adobe RoadBest breakfast and lunch spot in 29 Palms
Snake Bite Roadhouse
Cool cafe and bar with solid food. The wings and ribs are excellent!
Shopping
Joshua Tree Certified Farmers' Market
61651 Twentynine Palms HighwayThe Station Joshua Tree
61943 Twentynine Palms HighwayOne of the best gift shops and art galleries in the entire Hi-Desert.
19 locals recommend
Hey There Projects
61675 Twentynine Palms HighwayOne of the best gift shops and art galleries in the entire Hi-Desert.
Coyote Corner
6535 Park BlvdDesierto Alto
55827 Twentynine Palms HighwayJoshua Tree Rock Shop
61595 Twentynine Palms HighwayJoshua Tree Health Foods
61693 Twentynine Palms HighwayZannedelions
61877 Twentynine Palms HighwayHoof & The Horn
55840 Twentynine Palms Highway
Cactus Mart and Morongo Hardware
49889 Twentynine Palms Highway29 Palms Certified Farmers' Market
73484 Twentynine Palms HighwayName says it all. Fantastic selection of both and a must stop shop for fans of either.
165 locals recommend
Wine and Rock Shop
59006 Twentynine Palms HighwayName says it all. Fantastic selection of both and a must stop shop for fans of either.
Acme 5 Lifestyle
55870 Twentynine Palms HighwayXēBA BOTáNICA
Hoodoo
55866 Twentynine Palms HighwayThe End
55872 Twentynine Palms Highway
White Label Vinyl
73517 Twentynine Palms HighwayGreat record and gift shop in 29 Palms
Industry of All Nations - Undyed Shop
Coffee / Beverages
Frontier Café
55844 Twentynine Palms HighwayJoshua Tree Coffee Company
61738 Twentynine Palms HighwayMás o Menos
Brewja Elixir
Great selection of natural teas, remedies and elixirs for a heathy mind and body
Neighborhoods
Joshua Tree
Yucca Valley
Pioneertown
53688 Pioneertown RdTwentynine Palms
Morongo Valley
Traveler advice
Don't miss
The Great Outdoors
Joshua Tree National Park is the main attraction and can be very crowded. Get there early and plan you trip accordingly. Know there are several free and less traveled hikes like like 49 Palm Oasis, Pioneertown Mountains Preserve, Black Rock Canyon, etc. I would highly recommend downloading and using the All Trails app in advance of journeying out and remember, many areas don’t have cell service in the Hi-Desert (Joshua Tree National Park, Pioneertown, Landers). Always... 1. plan ahead 2. have the destination input and directions loaded into GPS before you leave 3. leave early
What to pack
It gets HOT 🔥 and COLD 🥶
Summers in the Hi-Desert can routinely hit 100 degrees, while winters can go below freezing and even attract snow. Always carry a water bottle, dress for the weather and be prepared.
Customs and culture
Locals are friendly, but private
Like most small towns with a tourist population, locals can often feel overwhelmed by the influx of people unfamiliar with the local culture. Be aware that you’re a guest and that many people live in the Hi-Desert year round.
Customs and culture
Water conservation is a way of life in the desert
Always travel with water if you’re hiking and know that water conservation is a way of life here. That said, be conscious of over usage and please do your part on conserving it wherever you are.
Customs and culture
Drive the speed limit
Once you hit 29 Palms Highway / Route 62, there are speed traps frequently set up to trap unsuspecting tourists. The speed limits fluctuate between 65 and 40 mph between Morongo Valley and 29 Palms, so please be aware of your speed and stick to the limit (slow and steady).
Book before you go
Leave early, book in advance and expect to wait
The Hi-Desert is a popular tourist destination and many of the recommendations here will require waiting. Leave early, book in advance (if possible) and be prepared to wait, especially at popular destinations like Pappy and Harriet’s, La Copine, JT Country Kitchen, Kitchen in the Desert and Crossroads. If you’re already hungry, you might consider a grab-and-go option like Roadrunner or The Dez, which are both great.
Traveling with kids
The desert can be dangerous, especially for kids and pets
Hot temperatures, penetrating sun, cacti, thorny plants, cliffs, rocks, strong winds, rattlesnakes (seasonally), coyotes, etc...the desert can be a harsh environment, especially for children and pets. Always check weather forecasts, dress accordingly, wear shoes outdoors, pack water, hydrate, apply sunscreen and keep an eye on your kids and pets at all times.
Customs and culture
Sound and light travels far and wide in the Hi-Desert
One of the biggest pet peeves constantly referenced by the local community is outsiders being too loud at night or flashing bright lights that disrupt the night sky. Know that the county noise ordinance forbids amplified music after 10pm and the Light Trespass Ordinance initiative helps to regulates light pollution. Both are in place for a reason. Most residents get up early with the sun and are in bed by 10pm. 9pm is often referred to as “desert midnight” in the region. Please be conscious of your surroundings and know most people go to bed early out here.