Wander: Joshua Tree, California

my curated list of places to see, things to do and where to stay.

The desert is one of my most favorite places to visit and over the last few years I’ve traveled to Joshua Tree and its surrounding areas, at least a half dozen times. Each time I go, I always love finding new spots to explore, and as a result, I’ve created a list of the places I love to return to, again and again. Admittedly, this list is ever-evolving and likely missing other amazing spots I’ve yet to discover or forgot to include, but hopefully it will serve as a good starting point should you find yourself traveling to Yucca Valley and the Joshua Tree area, as a first-timer or returning again, for the love of what the wide-open space of the high desert and an on going curiosity for new things to see and do.

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SEE & DO

The Integratron for Sound Baths and UFO sightings | photo: Wanda Weller

INTEGRATRON

• Definitely need reservations here if you want to participate in the sound baths which are a truly magical experience. (And be sure to book way in advance.)

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

• First off, I highly recommend purchasing a National Park Annual Pass (which you can purchase at the gate) that way, you can enter the park for free and as frequently as you wish, not to mention any an all other National Parks in the US. And with so many amazing trails to explore in Joshua Tree, you’ll definitely want to return again and again. Here are a few highlights to check out.

  • Cholla Cactus Garden

  • Discovery Trail

  • Boy Scout Trail

  • Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop

  • Wall Street Mill

  • Barker Dam

  • Split Rock Trail and Face Rock Spur

NOAH PURIFOY OUTDOOR MUSEUM

• This amazing space is free and open to the public during daylight hours.

INSTITUTE OF MENTAL PHYSICS

• Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this is an “intentional habitat centered around deep inquiry into spiritual practice.”

A-Z WEST at HIGH DESERT TEST SITES

• Only open one Saturday a month, reservations are required to tour this inspiring property and former home of Andrea Zittel and her testing ground for living experiments and design solutions. (see my latest POST for more about A-Z West)

TRANSMISSIONS

• This is free and well worth the drive to see this stunning sculpture.

YUCCA VALLEY MATERIAL LAB

• Check out the schedule of classes available from welding to jewelry making. I’ve taken classes here and it’s absolutely fantastic.

PAPPY & HARRIETS

• A must see for live music and causal dining.