Joshua Tree on a Whim

A desert escape to Joshua Tree National Park is just what the "doctor" ordered … a landscape of climbable towering granite rock, marvelous hikes, and a place to soak your bones and sip a cocktail after adventures among the whimsically wild trees. You'll feel like you've been transported to the pages of a Dr. Seuss book. Oh, the places you'll go!

Week: 03.24.2015
Regions: Southern CA

Take the High Road

Hike Ryan Mountain in Joshua Tree

You don't have to rock climb to reach a brilliant panorama of Joshua Tree. A 3-mile (round-trip) hike up Ryan Mountain takes you to one of the highest peaks in the park. The trail is uphill from the get-go. Begin by following stone steps constructed from nearby rock that lead to
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Yodel for Yosemite

Hikes Bike Rides and Zipline in Yosemite

Arizona has the Grand Canyon. Florida has the Everglades. And California? We have Yosemite. One of the world's most celebrated national parks is just a few hours away and spring is an amazing time to see all of its natural wonders on full display. Right now the Merced River Canyo
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Walk on the Wild Side

Hike J Trees CA Riding and Hiking Trail

Joshua Tree’s California Riding and Hiking Trail traverses 35 miles through the entire park, but you don't have to hike all of it to see the good stuff. Get up close and personal with the park's quirky namesake trees on a moderate out-and-back route starting from Ryan Campground.
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Real Spring Break

Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel

You've hiked Joshua Tree's high peaks, gone into its desert wilds, and camped under its starry sky. Now it's time to enjoy a little R&R nearby. And by R&R we mean retro resort and really warm mineral water. Take a dip at the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel. While it might not be a d
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

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  2. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

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  3. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

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  4. Devilishly Hairy

    Mount Diablo is a devilish name but it’s home to some hairy spiders that don’t need to send a chill down your spine. Tarantulas come out and about in fall, as the males leave their burrows in search of mates. One of the best places to see them is on the northern slopes of Mount Diablo.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

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  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

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  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

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  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

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