Start your day with an awe-inspiring view at Keys View. With an elevation of over 5,000 feet, you'll get a panoramic view of the Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea. This is a great place for a family photo-op and to learn about the geography of the area. Be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water!
Next, take a hike at the Barker Dam Trail. This easy 1.3-mile loop trail takes you through Joshua Tree National Park's stunning rock formations and leads to a small body of water. The dam was built in the early 1900s by cattle ranchers and is now a great place to observe local wildlife. Don't forget to pack some snacks for a picnic at the dam!
End your day with a visit to the Joshua Tree Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about the park's history, ecology, and geology. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the Junior Ranger program. Be sure to pick up a map and some souvenirs before leaving!
Start your second day at Skull Rock, a popular landmark in the park. This rock formation gets its name from its resemblance to a skull. Kids will love climbing on it and taking pictures. From there, take a nature walk on the nearby trails to explore the unique plant life and boulder formations of the park.
Head over to Arch Rock for another unique rock formation. This 0.5-mile loop trail takes you through a maze of small boulders and leads to a large boulder with a naturally-formed arch. Kids will love climbing on the rocks and going through the arch. Be sure to check out the nearby picnic area for a lunch break!
End your day with a visit to the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum. This unique museum showcases the work of artist Noah Purifoy, who used junk objects to create sculptures in the desert. The museum is a great place for kids to use their imagination and think about how to turn everyday objects into art. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
If you have more time, consider camping at one of the park's campgrounds or taking a longer hike on one of the many trails. Avoid visiting during the summer months, as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have less time, consider skipping the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum or the Joshua Tree Visitor Center. Pack plenty of snacks and water for your time in the park!