If you’re looking to determine the best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park, it’s important to consider both the weather conditions and your comfort level with crowds.
I have explored Joshua Tree in various seasons, and regardless of when you choose to go, it is definitely worth the trip. Some negative reviews refer to the park as “just a bunch of rocks and trees.” However, those fascinating rock formations are a significant part of the park’s charm, and the trees—though not actually trees—are uniquely adapted to this desert environment. So yes, visiting Joshua Tree is absolutely worthwhile.
So when should you visit? Different seasons in the area offer their own benefits. This guide will provide you with essential weather information, tips on avoiding crowds, the best and worst times to visit, and a wealth of travel advice.
Weather in Joshua Tree National Park
Our site features several articles like this one that advise on the best times to visit various locations in California, including Redwood National Park, Big Sur, and Pismo Beach. Many of these articles include tables about temperature and precipitation, similar to the one above. However, unlike most parts of California where precipitation is measured in inches, Joshua Tree’s average monthly precipitation rarely exceeds one inch, and it is even lower in Death Valley.
While these averages are generally useful, there is always an element of unpredictability regarding Joshua Tree’s weather. For example, August typically experiences very little rain, but in 2023, a tropical storm brought over an inch of rain to the park in just one day. On another occasion, when I visited in March, I encountered snow on the Lost Mine trail while hiking.
So, pack layers and be prepared for anything.
When is the Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree National Park?
The most pleasant temperatures can be found in October-November or March-April.
When is the Worst Time to Visit Joshua Tree?
Summer is generally the worst time to visit Joshua Tree, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F. Extended hiking during this heat can be dangerous. The park even posts safety warnings about hiking in such extreme conditions because they want to prevent situations like heat strokes.
When is the Busiest Time to Visit Joshua Tree?
March is the busiest month in Joshua Tree National Park, with December, April, November, and February following closely. Moreover, weekends and holidays are typically crowded.
Although Joshua Tree is vast, most popular sites are centralized in the park, which can lead to parking difficulties at locations like the Lost Mine Loop trailhead, Barton Dam, and Wall Street Mill.
The park is open year-round. Therefore, if you plan to visit during peak times, aim to arrive early to enjoy those popular spots before exploring the rest of the park.
The Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree: Month-by-Month Breakdown
January, February, March, April
Among the cooler months, January sees the least number of visitors, making it a great time to explore Joshua Tree if you prefer fewer crowds. On my last visit in January, I found myself as the only guest at my hotel and had no issues finding parking for my hikes.
March attracts more visitors due to the warmer weather, and if there’s been sufficient rainfall, you’ll find the Octotillo cactus, Cholla cactus, and Joshua Trees starting to bloom!
May, June, July, August
Despite the intense heat, summer sees a significant number of visitors. Remember, Joshua Trees do not provide shade like the elm tree in your yard, so be prepared for plenty of sun exposure. Since the park is open all day, if you wish to hike, aim to start just before dawn to complete your hike before the sun rises too high.
During the hottest parts of the day, consider a scenic drive to Key’s View or take short walks on the Hidden Valley and Cholla cactus nature trails.
September, October, November, December
From mid-October to December, the weather in Joshua Tree becomes very enjoyable. While visitor numbers start to rise, it is still less crowded than the peak season of March and April.
The park hosts a Dark Sky festival in mid-October, which is a highlight for enthusiasts.
If your schedule allows, consider visiting between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many people are busy during this time, giving you a better chance for a peaceful experience in the park.
Plan Your Trip to Joshua Tree
Explore our website for a wealth of resources to help you maximize your visit to Joshua Tree.
Begin with our Joshua Tree Visitor’s Guide, where you’ll find practical planning advice and a list of top activities in the park. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, check out our recommendations for the best hikes in Joshua Tree, catering to various distances and difficulty levels. And if you’re short on time, see our guide on how to spend a day in Joshua Tree.
For those flying in, we provide information about the closest airport to Joshua Tree.
If you have extra time, make sure to explore the creative attractions in Joshua Tree town. For camping enthusiasts, we have compiled a list of all campgrounds along with tips for securing a spot. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a more luxurious stay, check out our suggestions for glamping accommodations and cabins in the area.
Other California Desert Itineraries
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