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2-Day Driving Tour of Joshua Tree National Park from Los Angeles

Viewed by 152 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Joshua Tree, California, USA on October 8, 2025

10:45am

Arrive at LAX Airport

Land at Los Angeles International Airport and collect rental car for the drive to Joshua Tree National Park.
USD0, 0h30m

11:30am

Drive to Joshua Tree National Park

Begin the 2.5 to 3-hour scenic drive east to Joshua Tree National Park, enjoying the California landscape en route.
USD0, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe, Joshua Tree

Enjoy a casual lunch featuring fresh salads, sandwiches, and vegetarian options at Crossroads Cafe, open till 3pm.
USD15-25, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Joshua Tree Visitor Center

Stop by the Visitor Center to get maps, park information, and learn about flora and fauna of the desert.
USD0, 0h45m

4:30pm

Driving Tour of Joshua Tree National Park

Explore the park via the main roads including Barker Dam and Hidden Valley. Best to catch sunset at Keys View for panoramic views.
USD30 entrance fee per vehicle, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pappy & Harriet's in Pioneertown

Dine at this iconic spot offering live music and American cuisine, about 30 minutes from Joshua Tree. Open till 10pm.
USD30-50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Full Park Exploration

Joshua Tree, California, USA on October 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Natural Sisters Cafe

Fuel up with organic, vegan-friendly breakfast dishes including pastries, granola, and strong coffee.
USD10-18, 1h

8:30am

Hiking at Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Enjoy an easy 1-mile loop through Hidden Valley, famous for rock formations and abundant wildlife, open from sunrise to sunset.
USD0, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Barker Dam

Visit this historic dam and enjoy a 1.3-mile loop with chances to spot wildlife and unique desert plants.
USD0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at La Copine

Head to La Copine, a popular spot with outdoor seating and a creative menu featuring fresh regional ingredients.
USD20-35, 1h30m

1:30pm

Visit Skull Rock

Drive and hike briefly around this iconic rock formation shaped like a skull, a must-see landmark within the park.
USD0, 1h

2:45pm

Drive to Cholla Cactus Garden

Explore the fascinating Cholla Cactus Garden, best viewed in late afternoon light for amazing photos.
USD0, 1h

4:00pm

Sunset at Keys View

Watch a breathtaking sunset from Keys View, offering panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault.
USD0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Joshua Tree Saloon

Enjoy hearty American fare with a desert-western vibe in Joshua Tree, open till 9pm.
USD20-35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Morning & Departure

Joshua Tree to Dana Point, California, USA on October 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Joshua Tree Coffee Company

Start the day with some of the best fresh-roasted coffee and light breakfast options nearby.
USD8-15, 1h

8:30am

Morning Visit to the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum

Explore large-scale, outdoor assemblage art installations reflecting desert life, a unique cultural attraction.
USD0, 1h30m

10:30am

Pack and check out accommodation

Prepare for checkout and ensure all belongings are ready for departure to Dana Point.
USD0, 1h

11:30am

Optional short hike or final photoshoot in Joshua Tree

Take a short walk or shoot last scenic photos around your lodging area or a nearby park spot.
USD0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe

Have a relaxed farewell lunch back at Crossroads Cafe featuring fresh local ingredients.
USD15-25, 1h

1:30pm

Drive from Joshua Tree to Dana Point

Begin the approximately 2.5-hour drive southwest to Hilton Garden Inn in Dana Point, California.
USD0, 2h

3:30pm

Arrive at Hilton Garden Inn, Dana Point

Check in and relax at your new accommodation after the scenic road trip.
USD0, 0h30m
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