SKULL ROCK
| 33.9978° N, 116.0594° W
Even though it sounds like a place where a pirate might hide a treasure chest, Skull Rock is a fun spot to visit during your time at the park. It looks like a skull due to decades of raindrops gathering in small cavities, eroding the granite. Over time, the erosion formed two holes, which eventually became eye sockets that allowed the skull to take shape. There are three entry points for Skull Rock:
A 1.7-MILE HIKE FROM THE JUMBO ROCK CAMPGROUND THE LOOP E LOCATED INSIDE THE CAMPGROUND
1
2
THE PARKING LOT ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE ROCK
3
HIDDEN VALLEY
| 39.1623° N, 84.8430° W
What was once an anchorage for Native Americans and a hideout for early cattle and horse wranglers is now one of the most famous scenic trails in Joshua Tree National Park. Hidden Valley is home to a variety of plant and animal life that form a distinct micro-habitat different from other parts of the park. For instance, a robust number of Joshua trees, pinyon, juniper and oak occupy the same space with mesquite, yucca, ponytail palms, cacti and various other species. Joshua Tree National Park is a wonderful day trip. But, for the complete experience, you might consider camping overnight to see the dazzling sunsets and pristine night skies. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget.
FAST FACTS FOUNDED as a national park on October 31, 1994
ENTRANCE fee $30 a vehicle per week
VISITORS 2,988,547 in 2019
COVERS 89,745 acres, total area
12
IN YOUR CORNER ISSUE 7 | 2021
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker