Your 48 Hour Itinerary For The Perfect Joshua Tree National Park Weekend
For those who can only spend 48 hours visiting Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding vibrant areas of Twentynine Palms and downtown Joshua Tree we’ve put together an itinerary that will give you the perfect high desert experience.
Before we get into the details of the itinerary, where you stay when visiting Joshua Tree National Park will be key to maximizing your time. We recommend staying at a WKNDR getaway, either Starside or Parkside, (BOOK HERE) as both are within close proximity to the North entrance (the less busier entrance) of the park, provide remote experiences, and also are centrally located to both Twentynine Palms and downtown Joshua Tree. They also both have hot tubs and other amenities, like an always on-demand host, that will ensure you have the most amazing desert experience.
Day 1
Start your day off with a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. There are plenty of hiking trails and lookout points to choose from, but we recommend starting with the Hidden Valley Trail. This easy 1-mile loop takes you through a stunning rock formation that was once used as a hideout by cattle rustlers. There are also other iconic trails that are fairly effortless, like Sull Rock (CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT SKULL ROCK) and Jumbo Rocks (CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT JUMBO ROCKS), that can also be visited during your drive through the Park.
After your hike(s), head to Twentynine Palms for lunch at the popular local eatery, The Rib Co. They serve up delicious BBQ and comfort food, including their famous ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.
Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Take Out and Dine In Only
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Thursday: 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Address: 72183 29Palms Highway, 29 Palms, CA 92277
Phone: (760) 367-1663
Next, head to the Joshua Tree Art Gallery to experience the local art scene. This gallery features work from local artists as well as national and international artists. Take some time to browse the exhibits and maybe even take home a unique piece of art as a souvenir.
Check It Out: @joshuatreeartgallery
Hours of Operation:
Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Address: 61607B 29 Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
In the evening, grab dinner at Pappy and Harriet's, a legendary roadhouse and music venue located in nearby Pioneertown. The menu features classic American fare, but it's the live music that draws the crowds. You never know who might be playing, from up-and-coming local acts to established musicians.
Check It Out: @pappyandharriets
Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Dine In Only
Hours of Operation:
Thursday - Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Monday: 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Address: 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268
Phone: (760) 228-2222
Day 2
Get an early start and head back into Joshua Tree National Park to catch the sunrise at Keys View (CLICK HERE FOR MORE KEYS VIEW DETAILS). From this lookout point, you can see panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Salton Sea.
Next, take a hike through the Cholla Cactus Garden, a unique landscape full of vibrant and spiky cacti. This easy loop trail is less than a mile long but is packed with plenty of photo opportunities. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON CHOLLA CACTUS GARDEN.
After your hike, head back into town and grab lunch at Crossroads Cafe. This casual eatery features a menu of fresh and healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Check It Out: @crossroadscafe_joshuatree
Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Take Out and Dine In
Hours of Operation: Monday - Sunday: 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Address: 61715 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
Phone: (760) 366-5414
In the afternoon, head to the Joshua Tree Music Festival for a unique and lively experience. This family-friendly festival features a mix of music, art, and workshops, and takes place twice a year in May and October.
Finish off your day with dinner at La Copine, a charming farm-to-table restaurant located in nearby Yucca Valley. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Check It Out: @lacopinekitchen
Take Out / Delivery / Dine In: Take Out and Dine In
Hours of Operation:
Thursday - Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Address: 848 Old Woman Springs Rd, Yucca Valley, CA 92284
Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, and downtown Joshua Tree offer an exciting and diverse range of experiences for all types of visitors which is why it makes for the perfect 48-hour or weekend trip. With stunning natural landscapes, a vibrant local scene, and plenty of unique activities to choose from, this destination is perfect for a quick but unforgettable getaway. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this magical park and the beautiful communities that surround it.
Let us know in the comments other additions for the perfect 48 hours weekend away visiting Joshua Tree National Park.