Birthday at Joshua Tree
- celiclu
- Mar 31, 2019
- 4 min read
This was my third time visiting California and I've always heard great comments about Joshua Tree. My best friend, Phuong, planted the seed. We decided to go together on my 33rd birthday for three days. This was also my first time visiting a National Park. I'm grateful I had this opportunity to explore with my best friend. I do encourage you to at least try something different on your birthday. It helps you grow and what better time than on that day!
The ride to Joshua Tree from Los Angeles was about three hours. This year Los Angeles rained more than expected and it showed with beautiful green landscapes.
If you take Route 62 you'll drive through Twentynine Palms and find the West and North Entrance of the park. I didn't take any pictures of the area, and now I wish I did, because it had a western suburban feel that made my inner city girl fascinated. Our first stop, was the visitor center where I encountered my first road runner. The Oasis Visitor Center will give you maps, souvenirs, and help you formulate a game plan. I enjoyed the small exhibit they displayed. What is a Joshua Tree? Not a tree, but a type of plant that stores water, and it's a yucca, a yucca brevifolia. How did they get the name Joshua Tree? During the mid 19th century, Mormon pioneers were traveling and named it after the biblical figure, believing the branches were guiding their journey westward.
Our first stop was the Hidden Valley Trail, an easy one mile loop. It earned the name from cowboys hiding stolen cattle and then rebranding. Its beautiful rocks and desert wildlife will make you feel part of history. (Slideshow below)
Next stop and close by was Skull Rock. This is not a trail but a quick stop while on your way. Yes, it's a rock, and yes, it looks like a skull. When you get a closer look you'll be intrigued how much this rock formation resembles it. There are other rocks nearby to climb for fun, too.
Day two we decided to do the Cholla Cactus Garden and Ryan's Peak. The garden is small and no, the cacti don't jump on you. It's a rumor, but don't be surprised if one gets stuck on your shoe. Don't wear sandals. A small loop and if you look closely enough there will be little flowers sprouting.
Next up was the Ryan Mountain Trail. The peak is at 5461ft and it's difficult but manageable. It's not too steep and the view is worth it! I suggest to go near sunset. When you descend the sun starts to hit the rocks just perfect.
(Slideshow below)
When it comes to astrophotography, I'm a total beginner, and I think it's the hardest style of photography. All the tips and advice that I read still did not give me the picture I had in my head. The lesson is learned. I will just have to keep at it.
The last day at Joshua Park was not actually in the park. We drove up to the Integraton in Landers. There's history in the making of this amazing, relaxing sound bath. It was created by George Van Tassel in the Mojave Desert and structured into a wooden dome that reads a significant spike in the earth's magnetic field. Not only is it meant to rejuvenate and relax, but another way to time travel. This experience was different! You lay down in comfortable blankets, close your eyes, and someone at the center plays crystal quartz bowls. You can not touch the bowls. Trust me, you will want to touch them, but don't. The sound vibrates within your body. Time travel? I will say it puts you in a meditative state, where I heard the ocean and happy childhood memories resurfaced, I like that kind of time travel.
(Slideshow below)
The nature of Joshua Tree is so different than what I imagined. With all the rain, and the time of year, wildflowers started blooming in the park. These little flowers will catch your eye and make you appreciate nature.
I saved the best for last. What to eat at Joshua Tree? Read on.
First stop. Cali Greens Cafe.
The Pioneer Burger.
The bacon was cooked perfectly. This makes all the difference. Burnt bacon does not give any flavor. You need a bit of the fat to juice into the meat. Yes, I love bacon. I also love that instead of fries they give a side chips and salsa. I didn't feel so guilty eating this burger. It was just what I needed for a hike, too.
Chicken and Portabella Quesadillas.
Phuong had ordered this and I don't remember if I tasted it or not, but she didn't complain, and it looks simply amazing.
Second Stop. Frontier Cafe.
Ham, Egg, and Swiss.
I really like the ambiance of this cafe. It's hip, clean, and very chill. The service is friendly as you order up front and the menu looks healthy but tasty. I know eggs are just eggs, but this particularly had really good eggs. There is a difference when it's fresh and when it's not. For a long time, I don't think I had fresh eggs. Sad to say, but happy to know I was able to eat this yummy sandwich before going to the park.
Last Stop. The Rib Co.
These were my birthday ribs. I'm so happy we got to eat here. The wait was super short. The service was amazing! We loved our server. She was nice, helpful, and made sure you felt welcomed. Good service always makes a difference in one's dining experience. I'm a firm believer. We ordered the a rack of the Triple Threat between the two of us and we couldn't finish it. House rubbed, Bbq Sauce, and Tennessee Whiskey sauce left the meat falling off the bone. I'm starting to drool again. My advice is to go here if you're looking for a hearty meal after a long day of hiking.
My favorite part was that my friend surprised me with dessert and our server announced it loud and clear. I smiled big. I smiled even bigger after I ate that peach cobbler.
I will definitely go back to Joshua Tree and maybe this time camp underneath the stars. You see another side of nature. A side I don't see very often from living on the east coast. Is it magical? Yes. Joshua Trees will leave you wondering if your journey is westward, too.
Helpful Links:
https://www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/rv-camping-in-joshua-tree-national-park/ (Definitely love their recommendations!)
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