With mountains, faults, monoliths, deserts, and unique geological formations, Joshua Tree National Park has emerged as an important ecological hub of California. Further, as the name goes, the park has the most amazing Joshua Tree, a Yucca palm species that became famous with the Joshua Tree album by U2.
Spanning 800,000 acres and situated at 5000 feet above sea level, this national park is like a natural tapestry. Further, 85% of this national park is still pristine wilderness.
So, there is no wonder that a place like this harbors the best secrets and fun facts that are yet to be explored.
Here, I will share some amazing info about the park’s history, fossils, cryptobiotic crusts, and more.
Joshua Tree National Park is about to complete 30 years of its designation as a national park on 31st October 2024. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt designated it as a national monument in 1936.
Things No One Talks About Joshua Tree National Park
The basics are boring! There is no fun in visiting a place that does not have stories to tell. However, this national park, designated in 1994, has mountains and ecological units that echo the tales of history, changes, and humanity.
Let’s get into the stories, but before that, let me give you a brief account about when and how to visit the park. September to November is the best time to explore the park due to pleasant weather conditions.
Further, the Annual Night Sky Festival occurs in the park in October. It’s a delightful experience for people of all age groups.
Thomas Crochetiere writes many fascinating stories about Joshua Tree National Park in his “The History of Joshua Tree National Park: A historical, informational, and educational timeline of Joshua Tree National Park.” If you are interested in the park’s history, you can grab a Kindle edition of the book.
1. Fascinating Historical Tales About Joshua Tree National Park
Human history in Joshua Tree National Park is as old as 15000 years. Two archaeologists, William Campbell and Elizabeth Campbell, further discovered the existence of Pinto culture in this park.
Pinto Culture In The Park
People belonging to this Pinto Culture used to stay in cool grassland environments here, and they were primarily hunters.
Pinto culture in the national park was discovered by archaeologists thanks to the triangular-shaped spears, scraping and cutting tools, and seed-processing tools.
All the implements that established a Pinto connection to the place indicate that the Pinto people led a bohemian lifestyle. Along with hunting, they also practiced seasonal harvesting.
Native Americans Occupying Joshua Tree National Park
Europeans came to Joshua Tree National Park in the late 18th century. However, the park had three groups of Native Americans. They followed the Pinto culture, thriving locally in the park.
These three tribes were:
Cahuilla
Serrano
Chemehuevi
The Chemehuevi tribe was the latest to occupy the national park, and they came to this park from the Great Basin of Nevada in 1500.
All these tribes adopted the tools of the Pinto people, and they improved and diversified them.
Cattlemen First Occupied The Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park has every element of a Western movie. The western side of the park had higher elevations during the 1870s. These areas also received a higher rainfall and had different species of native grasses.
As a result, many cattle owners used to flock to these parts of the park for cattle grazing.
William “Bill” McHaney was the earliest cattleman in this park. He was a legendary figure, and he took his Texas Longhorns to these higher valleys. He will be known for living in the national park and exploring the area for around 60 years. Further, his brother, Jim, built a gang to steal cattle from Mexico and Arizona.
Discovery Of Gold In Joshua Tree National Park
The 19th century was the biggest highlight in the Joshua Tree National Park. Miners flocked to this park in great numbers for the discovery of gold. Twentynine Palms was the first area to have mining expeditions in the park in the late 1860s.
The presence of water in the Oasis of Mara was the main reason behind extensive mining expeditions at Twentynine Palms. Gold was collected from dirt using dry washing. The process was fun, and it involved throwing dirt mixed with dust into the air. The dirt was caught as it came down in the air, and this process continued until the mix only had gold dust.
Desert Queen Mine was a more successful gold mining venture in the park. It was Frank L. James, an employee of the Lost Horse Mine, who discovered the vein of gold in the Northern Queen Valley.
Unfortunately, he had to lose his life at the hands of Charles Martin. Martin was a part of the notorious cattle-rustler gang of Jim McHaney. Jim McHaney was the brother of William “Bill” McHaney, a legendary figure in the park.
Joshua Tree National Park Had An Important Role To Play During World War I
The dry, desert climate of Joshua Tree National Park was beneficial for the war veterans suffering from the effects of the mustard gas. This gas was so lethal that it had to be banned after World War I.
Did You Know? The Geneva Gas Protocol Treaty, signed in 1925 by most countries, banned the use of biological and chemical weapons in war.
Germans introduced mustard gas in 1917, and any contact with the gas used to cause skin burns, blisters, and respiratory problems. Patients hit by this gas needed to get hospitalized for the treatment of chemical burns and respiratory issues.
Moreover, the survivors of the mustard gas attacks had greater risks of developing cancer.
The fossils in the Joshua Tree National Park tell us about the geological evolutions, extreme natural events, and biodiversity. So, what were the animals that roamed here when the earth was a cooler and greener space? Let’s have a look at the list below.
Columbian mammoths
Dire wolves
Camels
Horses
Llamas
Giant ground sloths
Saber-toothed cats
Bison
American Pronghorn
Did Dinosaurs Live At Joshua Tree National Park? Scientists believe that Joshua Tree National Park had dinosaurs. Some of the oldest rocks in the park are from the dinosaur era. However, being metamorphic and igneous, these rocks could not preserve the skeleton of the dinosaurs. So, there is no “black and white” evidence regarding the existence of dinosaurs in the park yet.
The oldest fossil found in the park is the tooth of a pocket gopher. It was found in a 7.8 million years old sediment. The park has many other microfossils that are even older.
Moreover, the midden of the pack rats has been a gold mine for finding plant and insect species. At least 12 species of plants were found in the midden, and the oldest was around 30,000 years old.
In addition, the darkling beetle fossils in the midden come from various ages. The oldest dates back to 34,000 years ago, and the latest is as old as 1000 years old.
Above all, the human artifacts and bones collected in this midden speak of human history and the evolution of their lifestyle.
3. Cryptobiotic Crusts Of Joshua Tree National Park
What are cryptobiotic crusts? They are hidden biotic organisms present on the surface of the park soil. Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria are the leading cryptobiotic crusts at Joshua Tree National Park. The other forms of cryptobiotic crusts present in the park soil are:
Mosses
Lichens
Microfungi
Bacteria
Green algae
Now, these cryptobiotic crusts are important to bind the sand and soil particles of the park together. In other words, they prevent soil erosion caused by wind and water.
4. Spiritual Stories And Symbolism Around Joshua Tree National Park
“The Joshua Tree” album by Irish band U2 brought the spiritual connection or symbolism around the Joshua trees in the park under the spotlight. The album explores the gap between the promised land and the real land of America.
The desert also stood for the desolation of the soul, while the Joshua trees, surviving in extreme weather conditions, became the symbol of hope and prayer.
However, you must go back around 180 years to trace how Joshua trees have always been associated with symbolism and Biblical stories. In the 1850s, the Mormon pioneers crossed the Mojave Desert and saw these trees.
The upraised branches of the trees reminded them of Joshua, who stretched his arms to the sky for prayer and led the “Israelites into the Promised Land.” So, this is how these Yucca Palm trees got their new name.
5. Joshua Tree National Park Is The Best For Stargazing
As International Dark Night Sky, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places in California for stargazing. The following parking lot areas are best for Joshua Tree National Park stargazing.
Hidden Valley
Ryan Mountain
Quail Springs
Cap Rock
Along with these places, you can also choose Pinto Basin for an amazing stargazing experience.
How To Reach Joshua Tree National Park?
Joshua Tree National Park has three entrances. The table below details these entrances and will help you pick the right one based on the location you are traveling from.
Park Entrance Gate
Location
Ideal For Tourists From
West Entrance
At Park Blvd Off Highway 62
Los AngelesPalm SpringsSan Diego
North Entrance
29 Palms, Off Highway 62
Las Vegas
South Entrance
Cottonwood Spring, Off Highway 10
Salton Sea area
The West Entrance is the main entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. You must drive through California Highway 62 or Interstate 10 road to reach here.
Further, if you are traveling by air, you must reach Palm Springs Airport, and from there, you can rent a car. The Los Angeles International Airport is also 150 miles away from this park.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
No doubt, Sydney is one of the fantastic travel sites in Australia. The city has many attractions and sites that every holidaymaker can enjoy their moment. As you plan your tour, this city will offer you a package of things you can do during the day.
As well, you will never lack activities to make your night enjoyable. Whether you come with friends or family, Sydney will serve your purpose better. It has a wide range of night activities, with companies like sydney boat hire offering night-sea tours. So, if you are wondering the best way to spend your night, here are unique ways to consider:
Enjoy a fulfilling and romantic walk at the Darling Harbor
Night walks can be fulfilling when you have your partner by your side. When in Sydney, you can enjoy your moment on Darling Harbor. Here, you will have an opportunity to view various structures and buildings. It will be an incredible encounter with the city’s night view.
As you enjoy the walk, never miss an opportunity to treat yourself to a special dinner. The Darling harbor is a hub of various dining points, such as Darling Quarters. You will enjoy a special dinner that will make the moment awesome.
If you visit the place during peak season, you will get an opportunity to enjoy live concerts and excellent music. The good thing is that you do not need to worry about your budget as visiting this place is free at night.
Go for a helicopter night ride
Have you been in the air at night? There is no better way to capture a superb view of this Australian city at night than considering a helicopter ride. Get your partner ready and book a night helicopter ride to tour the Sydney sky.
The tour takes a maximum of 90 minutes. It is a perfect consideration for anniversary or birthday celebrations. Also, you can choose this option when proposing to your love or giving her a surprise date. Remember to carry a good camera to capture the moment.
Take a night cruise tour
If the sky is not your favorite place, you can consider getting into the sea. Take your friends or partner for a night cruise tour. You can consider a dinner cruise to make the moment unforgettable.
All you need is to approach an overnight boat hire Sydney service provider such as Sydney Boat Hire and choose your favorable package. You will have a superb experience enjoying special meals and a glass of wine as you enjoy cool breezes on the ocean.
Visit the Luna Park
Getting back to time is one way to enhance your moments. No better way to do this than visiting Luna Park. This special place is the only amusement park in the entire Sydney city. Here you will have a chance to enjoy the good old days by taking traditional rides.
The park offers different options such as Carousel and Dodgem cars. Also, you have a choice to ride on the Ferris Wheel with your partner or participate in the puzzle games and win a prize. The Luna Park will serve your purpose perfectly.
So, if you are ae in Sydney, you should not have boring nights. Perform these activities and enjoy your moments. Or got to Sydney Boat Hire for a night cruise ride.
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New South Wales Southern Highland Helicopter Tour
Do you have a vehement desire to experience the greatness of the outdoors?
Well, your ardent features as a traveler can vibe true senses here as we are going to give you information on the unique treks around the world. However, not every travel enthusiast is a trek frick. In fact, most of them you will find casual trip lovers.
Well, the trek is something else. It demands physical expertise and determination to face difficulties at any step. However, watching the beautiful and breathtaking scenery closely is only possible for trekkers around the world as they suffer the difficulties of unique trails to reach such positions which you cannot go by car.
Often we make the mistake of forgetting important things while planning for an exciting trekking trip. Well, we can understand the cravings and craziness behind the trip, but without proper itineraries and travel needs, you cannot make the trip smooth and memorable.
Whenever you are traveling abroad to attend some of these exciting treks, forget not to check your visa status by applying online. The days are gone when you have to take non-virtual initiatives to prepare your visa. Nowadays, you can simply apply and check your visa status online while you will be getting all the documents via mail.
So, it's time to present your passport and visa documents to take entry to your dream destination.
Best Unique Treks In The World
People who love to travel also love to take a closer look at the breathtaking beauties of natural architecture. However, trekking is something else, or you can say out of the earth if you have ever experienced it.
Well, there are innumerable treks available across the globe. However, we don't want you to fall into confusion and end up choosing something either you did not enjoy much or you have not reached there with convenience.
Though convenience does not match with the word trek as it is for the exceptional and also for the travel frick who can do it all to just take a deep breath at the highest pick or cherish a closure look of the in-front view.
Well, don't worry! We have such fantastic suggestions waiting for you to read!
Go through the list and find your best choice here to plan ahead and grab the real view with your own eyes in the future.
Trek To Everest Base Camp In Nepal
The stories of magnificent Mount Everest are never-ending!
If you are a trekking enthusiast, you have to go for this awe-inspiring experience at least once in your lifetime.
Think of it! You are standing at the base of the world’s tallest mountain!
Will there be anything more mighty and thrilling?
Situated in Nepal, this trek will give you a lot more than just Everest. You will get to experience the unique rocky trails, including suspension bridges, and pass through bustling Sherpa communities.
Starting from Lukla, you will be getting a vibe of Sherpa traditions and vibrant prayer flags. This famous trip will convey your lust for snow-capped peaks throughout the trail.
Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh, India
Have you heard about one of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges?
Well, its situation in India, Ladakh is a home for spontaneous trekkers throughout the year. It is a high-altitude frozen dessert that comes with stunning beauties and breathtaking moonscapes all over the place.
However, the Markha Valley trek can be a lifetime unique experience with the jagged ridges of Leh and the Indus River, which flows through the foothills. Well, during the trail, you can cherish the pure famous Buddhist gompa (monastery) at Hemis.
Apart from that, you will get the vibe of timeless Buddhist villages and the rain-shadow of the high Himalayas.
Inca Trail, Peru
People who are in love with history also love to combine geography with it. Considering the Inca Trail in Peru may involve you in such a great vibe. The ancient civilizations with uncountable tales to tell may find your footsteps in this trail.
While going through the mythical lost city of Machu Picchu, this particular ancient trail will take you through the sacred valley of the Incas.
The Walker's Haute Route, France, Switzerland
Do you want to do something more exciting and more than moderate?
Well, this difficult alpine trip will take you to the well-known walk connecting Zermatt in Switzerland and Chamonix in France.
Well, what will you not get here?
High mountain passes, gorgeous valleys, and hanging glaciers will all be in your sight on this trip. Undoubtedly it is not for beginners but for climbing aficionados.
Where you need a high degree of fitness, in return, you are getting alpine meadows, quaint mountain communities, and pristine lakes. Additionally, popular peaks like Mont Blanc and Matterhorn will let you realize that your struggle is worthwhile.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal
Counted among the most popular treks in the world, this trail takes you back again to Nepal to cherish its Annapurna Massif. Being one of the highest peaks in the world, it has popularity and feeling.
What feeling?
Think of it! What it feels when you find yourself in the middle surrounded by high mountain ranges. Most trekkers have a different craze for pine forests and waterfalls.
Well, apart from that, you get the view of narrow canyons and mountain villages in this 15 to 20 days trek.
Top Tips For Trekkers
A life-changing experience comes with proper preparations. Finding fresh water to accommodate minimally, all depends on your backpack and self-sufficiency to conquer routes and infrastructures.
Always keep travel light and respect your feet.
Climb slowly, and when you need rest, take it at all costs.
High altitudes will be your body's biggest enemy; let it absorb and accommodate slowly.
Be prepared for anything on the road.
Trekkers only go wrong when they come under bad weather. Check it properly, and then start trekking.
Plan ahead with routes and campsites.
Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes with safety concerns. If you want to see the ultimate view, be cautious about the cumbersome situations.
We know you have some exciting trails in mind. Flame in the connect box with your favorite trekking destinations, and we will be happy to share information in the future.
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Visiting Paris at least once is on everyone’s travel bucket list. I’ve been to Paris a couple of times and trust me, even a week would not be enough to explore the whole city, let alone two days.
But not to worry! There are several creative ways to explore a place in less time, like the Paris Hop on Hop off buses that take you around the city and all its major attractions in a short amount of time.
The city has endless museums, monuments, stores, etc., and it’s nearly impossible to tour all of them in 2 days.
But I have an efficient Paris travel itinerary for you, where you can cover every significant landmark and popular restaurant in just two days!
Paris Trip Itinerary Day 1
Supposing you’ve arrived a night before and have two whole days on your hands, let’s start with the first and the most popular attraction — the Eiffel Tower after you’ve had your breakfast.
Eiffel Tower
This is the place you HAVE to visit with Hop on Hop off Bus even if you’re in Paris for a couple of hours. Although it might get crowded as it is on weekends, trust me, it’s all worth it! The tickets are available online. You can also book tickets from the counter at the tower's base.
Timings
Morning, 9:00 till midnight, from the middle of June till early September.
Morning 9:30 till Evening, 11:00, throughout the remaining months of the year (During Easter weekend and Spring, the closing time is extended another hour)
Ticket Price
Second floor (Ticket with access lift): Adult - €22.60; youth rate (aged 12-24) — €11.30; Kids (aged 4-11) — €5.70; Disabled - €5.70
The Top (Ticket with lift access: Adult - €35.30; youth rate (aged 12-24) — €17.70; Kids (aged 4-11) — €8.90; Disabled - €5.70
Second floor (Ticket with access to stairs): Adult - €14.20; youth rate (aged 12-24) — €7.10; Kids (aged 4-11) — €3.60; Disabled — €3.60
Ticket with access stairs 2nd-floor +lift: Adult - €26.90; youth rate (aged 12-24) — €13.50; Kids (aged 4-11) — €6.80; Disabled — €6.80.
The top, ticket to the top via the elevator with a glass of champagne: Adult - €58.30
Second-floor ticket to the second floor via the elevator with a glass of champagne: Adult - €43.60
Second-floor ticket to the second floor via the stairs with a glass of champagne: Adult - €35.20
Les Invalides
After your morning overlooking the city from the top, you can head to Les Invalides, just 20 minutes away from the Eiffel Tower. Witness Napoleon’s tombstone in the church. Also right opposite the church is Musée Rodin, a must-visit!
Timings of Les Invalides
Opens at 10 am each day. You can enter till 6 pm
Every month, the gates open late on the first Friday. Timings remain 6 pm till 10 pm
Stays closed on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th
Timings of Musée Rodin
Open every day except monday. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close by 6.30 pm. The last entry is at 5.45 pm.
Closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25
Gift store is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm.
Ticket prices of Les Invalides
Museum and exhibitions: full price: €15; discounted price: €12; late-night opening: €10; youth (aged 18-25): €5
Guided tours to museums and exhibitions: total price: €20; discounted price: €15; group (min 20 pax): €17.
Invalides Musical Season Concerts: Saint-Louis Cathedral Concert - Cat.1 - €35, Cat.2 - €15 (8 pm); Turenne Room Concert:12.15pm) - €10, (8 pm) - €30
Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
Further following the itinerary, you’ll get to Champs-Élysées and from there to Arc de Triomphe. You can explore this beautiful place and shop from one of the most famous French boutiques.
Give your trip a little halt and have a coffee and snack at the café nearby, savoring the beauty of Paris.
Timings
Open from April 1st upto September 30th. Every week, you can visit From Wednesday to Monday — from 10 am to 11 pm and Tuesday from 11 am to 11 pm.
Opens October 1st. Visits continue till March 31. Visitors are allowed From Wednesday upto Monday - 10 am and 10:30 pm; Tuesdays - 11am to 10:30pm
Closed on: On two days, gates close within 4 pm. The dates are 24 and 31 December 2024. The days of the year when the place is closed are January 1st, May 1st, May 8 (morning), July 14 (morning), November 11 (morning), and December 25.
Ticket Price
Single price: €16
Grand Voyageur, at €13 only, for members who have subscription cards
Dinner: When you have just 2 days in Paris, make sure you make the most out of the culinary delights. Chez Janou is one of my favorite local restaurants. Have rib steak, tagliatelle with snails, and braised duck breast.
Paris Trip Itinerary Day 2
Leave the second day mainly for the museums and artistic tours, which is a must whenever you’re in France. But before all that let's start with an amazing French breakfast.
Breakfast: Head to one of the most famous bakeries in Paris — Boulangerie Mamiche. You can find everything here from doughnuts to cookies to baguettes and much more! Do try their babka, made of rich brioche dough braided with chocolate.
Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is the largest-ever private collection of ancient Roman sculptures assembled throughout the 19th century and marks my words this collection will blow your mind!
Timings
Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday: 9 in the morning to 6 in the evening
On Wednesday and Friday, gates open at 9 am and close by 9 pm
Tuesday: Closed
Ticket Price
General admission: €22
Under 18-year-olds, under 26-year-old residents of the EEA: Free
Audio guide: €6
Guided tours, storytime, and workshops + Louvre: €31
Palais Garnier
The famous opera house is undoubtedly one of Paris's most picturesque architectural structures. We can also list it among one of the most majestic theaters in Europe. Spend some time here observing the architecture and details of the beautiful architecture.
Timings
Every day from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening
Gates remain shut exceptionally on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th
Ticket Prices
Full price: €15
Reduced price: €10
Free entry for children < 12 years, job seekers, disabled people, and accompanying persons.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Sit and enjoy the sunset at one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. You can stake a stroll, have ice cream and enjoy some peaceful time with your loved ones here.
Timings
Opening hours: 7:30 am to 8:15 am
Closing hours: 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Ticket prices
Entry to the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris is free
Summing Up
So this was the most efficient 2-day itinerary to tour Paris and covers many must-see attractions, providing a balanced mix of art, history, and the vibrant Parisian atmosphere!.
If you want you can add or remove some locations from this itinerary according to your preferences.
Also read
Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try.
Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]
Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.
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