Joshua Tree National Park. For a first-time visitor the desert
may appear bleak and drab. Viewed from the road, the desert only
hints at its vitality. Closer examination reveals a fascinating
variety of plants and animals. A rich cultural history and
surreal geologic features add to the attraction of this place.
Two deserts, two large ecosystems whose characteristics are
determined primarily by elevation, come together at Joshua Tree
National Park. Below 3,000 feet, the Colorado Desert encompasses
the eastern part of the park and features natural gardens of
creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus. The higher, moister,
and slightly cooler Mojave Desert is the special habitat of the
Joshua tree. In addition to Joshua tree forests, the western
part of the park also includes some of the most interesting
geologic displays found in California’s deserts. Five fan palm
oases also dot the park, indicating those few areas where water
occurs naturally and wildlife abounds. ||Temperature||100.0°
F||Sunrise||5:31 am| |