| Join a geographer-guide on this memorable journey to uncover the secrets of Joshua Tree National Park. This enchanted landscape nestled into the Mojave Desert north of Palm Springs is a truly fascinating region of bizarre rock formations, ancient twisting Joshua trees and granite monoliths (often being scaled by rock climbers). Viewed from the road, this desert park only hints at its vitality. Closer examination reveals a fascinating variety of plants and animals that make their home in this land shaped by strong winds, unpredictable torrents of rain and climatic extremes. A rich cultural history and surreal geologic formations add to the attraction of this place. With 700 species of plants, Joshua Tree is renowned for its plant diversity. No wonder that when the area was first proposed for preservation in the early 1930s, the name suggested was Desert Plants National Park. See the huge rock formations surrounded by a healthy population of Joshua Tree, pinyon, juniper and oak along with mesquite, yucca, nolina and various cacti in Hidden Valley. Admire the views at Key’s View (elevation 5,152 feet) where on a clear day lies a sweeping panorama of the Coachella Valley including Palm Springs, the Salton Sea, the San Andreas Fault and two of Southern California’s biggest summits: Mount San Jacinto and Mount Gorgonio. At the Cholla Cactus Garden we can take a leisurely walk through thousands of densely concentrated, naturally growing cholla cacti. Your geographer-guide will point out the rugged canyons that testify to the tectonic and erosional forces that shaped this land and explain how this modern landscape was born more than 100 million years ago. We’ll enjoy an included boxed lunch picnic and visit the new Joshua Tree Cultural Center in Twentynine Palms featuring rotating exhibits celebrating the culture, history, and stories of the Native American communities in the Joshua Tree region. No visit to the Coachella Valley is complete without a stop at Hadley Fruit Orchards. Founded in 1931, this southern California landmark has provided a friendly place to shop for premium quality Medjool dates, dried fruit, nuts, hand-mixed trail mixes, honey, preserves, freshly-ground peanut butter and a variety of gifts. At the snack bar is where you’ll find their famous date shakes! This tour involves moderate walking over uneven terrain. |