Best Guidebooks For Joshua Tree National Park
Known for its natural beauty and interesting rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park is a popular destination for visitors from across the United States. So if you're planning to visit the Park soon, make sure to check out our list below of the best guidebooks to help you make the most of your trip!
You might think books are a little…well, analog. But remember, there is no cell service at Joshua Tree National Park, so a physical book beyond the basic park map will enrich your experience.
Here are our top picks of Joshua Tree National Park guidebooks.
Most Interesting Guidebook
Wildsam Field Guides: Joshua Tree National Park
We recently stocked our Airbnb with this guidebook, and I recommend picking up your own copy. This guide is unlike others because it takes a holistic look at the park and surrounding area. It covers topics from best hikes to desert conservation, as well as UFO sightings.
In addition, it's filled with various written formats to keep you reading, from quick stats to Q&As with park experts and long-format journal entries. This makes the Wildsam Field Guide one of the most engaging guides we've read about the area. The cons of this guide are that there are no photos, and the font is smaller than average.
Best All-Around Guidebook
The Complete Guide: Joshua Tree National Park
If you're focused on Joshua Tree National Park and have not been before, this guide is for you. It covers the park highlights and provides useful comprehensive information about campgrounds and hiking. Gorgeous full-color photos and glossy pages enhance the bits on park history, geology, and plant life. The other local recommendations for lodging and eating are not written from a local’s perspective, and I would suggest doing your own research here. The guide also offers Joshua Tree National Park's west entrance as the best way to access the park. I would argue that 29 Palms is the better entrance and closer to more popular attractions. Read more about that in our guide to the best entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. These cons do not outshine its usefulness as the best starter park guide.
Best Joshua Tree Bouldering Guide and Best Joshua Tree Climbing Guide
Our favorite bouldering and climbing books are Joshua Tree Rock Climbs 3rd edition and Joshua Tree Bouldering 2nd edition by Robert Miramonte. They cover all levels of bouldering and climbing, including beginner. The climbing is more challenging in Joshua Tree, so a good beginner selection is crucial. The maps are also vital if you haven't visited the area before. I find them more helpful than an app like Mountain Project. Remember, there is no cell service in the park. Here are links to purchase the most recent editions of Joshua Tree Rock Climbs and Joshua Tree Bouldering.
If planning ahead isn't necessary, consider renting these guidebooks from Joshua Tree Outfitters. It's $5 for the first day and $1 per additional day. Make sure to schedule your appointment ahead of time to ensure a book will be available for you. If it’s your first time and you’re psyched to make the most of the climbing here, we suggest ordering your own copy. They cover 2,000-3,000 problems and routes each.
All the guidebooks listed above are great options to take with you on your trip to Joshua Tree National Park. Each offers a comprehensive overview of its intended subject. If you want the most up-to-date local recommendations for what to do while you're in the area, be sure to check out our WKNDR guides to Joshua Tree – they'll give you all the information you need about local restaurants, bars, and attractions.
CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE 7 JOSHUA TREE ROCK FORMATIONS YOU WON’T FIND ON THE PARK MAP.
We can't wait to hear about your favorite Joshua Tree National Park attraction – let us know in the comments below!
Headed To Joshua Tree Soon? Check Out Our Essential Packing Lists.
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