Top Day Hikes and Sights in Joshua Tree National Park

Experienced hiker and guidebook author and Southern California native Scott Turner has been exploring Joshua Tree National Park for years, fostering a deep knowledge of its geography and natural and human history. Here he provides distinct guidance for choosing the perfect hike to experience the unique landscape of the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts.
Attractive, all-color guidebook packed with info to help readers choose activities that meet their interests: Day hikes from 1 to 10 miles, with elevation from 250 to 1500 feetDistances and elevations measured in both US Standard and metricInformation on park campgrounds and lodgesPark basics: visitor centers, must-see sights and activities, permits and fees, fun facts, gateway towns, and moreOverview of flora and fauna and the effects of climate change in the park

From the Publisher

FROM THE INTRODUCTION

“Stabby plants and kitty litter.” These were the colorful words a hiker used to describe the desert moments before I led a group of desert novices on an introductory hike in Joshua Tree National Park. A few of these hikers had ventured out reluctantly, carrying the burden of preconceived notions about what they would find: a hot, scorched wasteland that wanted nothing more than to hurt them in creative ways. The irony of the hiker’s statement hit home moments later when I led the group into a lush oasis of California fan palms nourished by permanent water sources. We discussed how the desert’s oases harbor a diverse array of wildlife, like seaports on the edge of the Pacific, and how the indigenous peoples from ages long gone cultivated and nourished the oases while benefiting from their abundant resources. In the midst of all that kitty litter, we found a vibrant secret that ultimately turned the desert skeptic into a desert enthusiast.

– Scott Turner, author

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Mountaineers Books
Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 1, 2019
Edition ‏ : ‎ Illustrated
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Print length ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1680512528
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1680512526
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 8 ounces
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4 x 0.5 x 6.9 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #136,199 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #86 in Mountain Climbing #138 in Running & Jogging (Books) #285 in Hiking & Camping Excursion Guides (Books)
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