There’s more to Joshua Tree than what’s inside the park gates. Across the high desert, vast open spaces invite you to slow down, look closer, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re hiking through boulder-strewn valleys, climbing volcanic craters, or walking through shaded canyons lined with cottonwoods, the landscape here offers a rare kind of stillness and an invitation to roam.

From iconic national landmarks to lesser-known preserves, this region is rich in natural beauty, geological wonder, and ecological diversity. The desert isn’t empty… it’s alive, expansive, and waiting to be experienced on your own terms.

Below are some of the most rewarding outdoor destinations to explore, each offering its own glimpse into the wild spirit of the Mojave

Joshua Tree National Park

The heart of it all. Hike, climb, stargaze, or simply take in the otherworldly beauty of Joshua Tree National Parks granite formations, Joshua trees, and dark night skies. With over 800,000 acres of wilderness, there’s something here for every kind of adventurer.

Planning a visit? Explore our full Joshua Tree National Park section for essential tips, places to go, seasonal closures, and insider insights.

MORONGO CANYON PRESERVE

Location: Morongo Valley, 20 minutes west of Joshua Tree
A lush surprise in the high desert. Managed by The Wildlands Conservancy, this canyon features riparian trails lined with cottonwoods, willows, and desert wildlife. It’s one of the best birding spots in the region and a peaceful place to walk year-round.

Ideal for: Birdwatching, shaded walks, wildlife viewing

Whitewater Preserve

Location: Near Palm Springs, about 45 minutes from Joshua Tree
Nestled in a canyon beneath the towering San Gorgonio Mountain, this preserve features year-round streams, palm groves, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s a refreshing oasis in the desert with picnic spots and maintained trails.

Ideal for: Day hikes, picnics, and flowing water year-round

Pioneertown Mountains Preserve

Location: Northwest of Joshua Tree, about 25 minutes from town
A rugged, lesser-known gem with steep canyons, pinyon pines, and a wild feel. Trails here include expansive views and opportunities to experience higher-elevation desert habitats. Check trail conditions—some areas are prone to seasonal closures.

Ideal for: Solitude, elevation gain, and sweeping desert vistas

Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark

Location: 1 hour northeast of Joshua Tree
This dormant volcanic cinder cone rises dramatically from the flat desert floor. A moderate 4-mile round-trip trail lets you hike into and around the crater, offering panoramic views and an immersive geological experience.

Ideal for: Sunrise/sunset hikes, geology lovers, lunar-like landscapes

Mojave National Preserve

Location: 1.5–2 hours northeast of Joshua Tree
Vast and wild, this 1.6-million-acre preserve is home to sand dunes, lava tubes, rugged mountains, and Joshua tree forests that stretch beyond the eye. Less visited than most national parks, it offers true solitude and massive scale.

Must-see: Kelso Dunes, Mitchell Caverns, Teutonia Peak Trail, and the lava tube near Aiken Mine Road

Tips Before You Go

Pack extra water, sun protection, and layers—the desert can be extreme.
Check conditions—road closures, heat advisories, or trail restrictions may apply.
Leave no trace—help protect these fragile ecosystems by staying on trails and packing out everything you bring in.

Outdoor recreation