4 days in Joshua Tree National Park & Palm Springs Itinerary

Joshua Tree National Park takes its name from the Joshua tree, a twisted, spiky tree with bayonet-shaped leaves at the top that's one of the few plant species hardy enough to thrive in the extreme climate of the Mojave Desert.

On the 3rd (Fri), cruise along Geology Tour Road and then don't miss a visit to Arch Rock. Here are some ideas for day two: make a trip to Cap Rock at Joshua Tree, identify plant and animal life at Barker Dam Trail, then stroll through Ryan Mountain, and finally trek along 49 Palms Canyon Trail.

Plan a Joshua Tree National Park trip in moments using our itinerary builder.

San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park is an approximately 4-hour car ride. You can also do a combination of bus and taxi; or do a combination of train, bus, and taxi. Expect warmer weather when traveling from San Diego in July: highs in Joshua Tree National Park hover around 103°F, while lows dip to 78°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 4th (Sat) early enough to drive to Palm Springs.

Start off your visit on the 5th (Sun): hike along Indian Canyons Hiking Trails, tee off at Indian Canyons Golf Resort, then identify plant and animal life at South Lykken Trail, then play a few rounds at Escena Golf Club, and finally stroll through Palm Springs Museum Trail. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: play a few rounds at Marriott's Shadow Ridge Golf Club, then relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas, then tee off at Indian Wells Golf Club, and finally hike along Randall Henderson Loop Trail.

For more things to do, maps, traveler tips, and more tourist information, go to the Palm Springs trip planner.

You can drive from Joshua Tree National Park to Palm Springs in 1.5 hours. Another option is to do a combination of taxi and bus. In July in Palm Springs, expect temperatures between 107°F during the day and 81°F at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 6th (Mon) so you can drive back home.