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Joshua Tree is about 35 miles, by road, northeast of Palm Springs, California. The town is on the northern borders of the Joshua Tree National Park. The town is surrounded by desert scenery that is unique to this area of the world. Mormon pioneers named the Joshua tree after the biblical figure of Joshua because of its uplifted limbs towards the heavens. These trees in the area have been estimated to be over 500 years old. But, this is not the only thing to admire here in Joshua Tree. The nearby park opens up hundreds of possibilities. Rock climbing is perhaps the most popular. Large boulders and rock formations jut out of the ground throughout the park and make for wonderful climbing routes. Hiking trails and picnic sites have been carved and placed in perfect locations to enjoy the beauty of the desert. The local visitor centers will give you knowledge about the wildlife in the park and about the desert ecosystem. However, when going into the park make sure you bring everything you need including water. The only places to get more drinking water are back by the entrances. Back in Joshua Tree you can relax and enjoy an afternoon of shopping and walking around in the warm sun. Nearby Palm Springs has more golf courses and tennis facilities than you can shake a stick at and coming back to the peaceful town of Joshua Tree at the end of a great day will be wonderful. Palm Springs also has the closest airport to Joshua Tree, the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP, 34miles). |