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 Sunday, January 31, 2010Joshua Tree National Park Story by Jace Edwards Photos by Jace Edwards, Cara Pitzer and Kelly Crossett Just off Highway 62 southeast of Yucca Valley is a National Park that covers 794,000 acres. It is the junction of the Colorado and Mojave deserts comprising the Little San Bernardino Mountains, the Cottonwood Mountains, the Coxcomb Mountains, Eagle Mountains, Hexie Mountains and portions of the Pinto Mountains. This is the Joshua Tree National Park.  An expansive desert oasis of spiny and multicolored plant life, it takes in two different habitats, blending flora and fauna of two distinctive deserts and combining them in a serene, yet dangerous landscape. Make no mistake — one false move and you can find yourself in a precarious position. But by following some simple guidelines, you can find adventure at one of the most pristine National Parks California offers.First, read about your surroundings. In the past, people have died from preventable mistakes. Upon entrance, you will receive a map and an official Joshua Tree Guide. As you drive to your first location, take the time to learn what dangers may lie in wait. Depending on the time of the year, you may have to keep a watchful eye out for the Red Diamond Rattlesnake. It is also important to carry extra water in case of an emergency. The recommended amount is at least one gallon per person per day. Overnight camping is allowed in designated areas, and no off road driving is permitted.Be aware of not only the weather on the day of your adventure, but also the days leading up to it. Storms can create flash floods that may occur after the fact of the rain. Spring and fall temperatures create the most ideal conditions, but it also lends itself to wetter weather that can impede many roads, paths and trails. Also, do not attempt anything without proper gear. The rocks are sharp and porous. This lends to many scrapes and cuts on would be climbers. A simple first aid kit will help prevent scrape-induced infections. Common sense prevails in the desert, so use it. There are many attractions in Joshua Tree National Park. To try to see all of them in one day would be foolish. Take time in different sections of the park to enjoy its grace and beauty.  Some of the more notable places are; Skull Rock, White Tank, Jumbo Rocks, Keys View, Hidden Valley, Lost Horse Mine, Indian Cove, and the Oasis of Mara. A slight detour down Geology Tour road will take you into Pleasant Valley and connect you (eventually) with Dillon Road. Keys View gives you an excellent perspective of the San Andreas fault and the Coachella Valley. Each of these locations is a miniadventure waiting to be taken by you.The most inviting thing about this desert wonderland is the cost. At only $15 for a seven-day Day Pass and $30 for an Annual Pass with overnight camping at $10/$15 a night (depending on site location), this is one of the most affordable attractions in Southern California. Day use hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are a variety of facilities from clean restrooms to drinkable water; all are noted on the map provided by the National Park Service. For more photos of Joshua Tree National Park, click here. For more about Joshua Tree National Park, click here.
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