Joshua Tree National Park Small-Group Scenic Tour
About Joshua Tree National Park Small-Group Scenic Tour
This small-group tour takes you into Joshua Tree National Park in an air-conditioned van, with a guide who explains the geology, the San Andreas Fault and the stories of the people who lived here. It has 599 reviews and a 4.7 rating.
The tour lasts 3 to 5 hours depending on your departure point, with prices from about $127 per person.
Itinerary
- Joshua Tree National Park (3 hours)
- Cap Rock Trail (30 minutes)
- Intersection Rock (15 minutes)
- Barker Dam Trail (45 minutes)
- Keys View (15 minutes)
What’s included
- Bottled water
- Expert national park guide
- Snacks
- General Admission
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Fuel surcharge
Meeting point
This departure is daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 pm for the afternoon tour. The afternoon is a great choice as we get back at 4:30 p.m. just in time for a cowboy western dinner in the area! We have lots of recommendations. | This departure is every daily in front of the main Museum entrance at 8:30 a.m
What to expect on the day
You visit the most photographed places in the park, including its giant boulder piles and forests of Joshua trees, with time to walk around and take photos. A stop at a high viewpoint looks out across the Coachella Valley toward Mexico on clear days.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: An expert park guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, snacks and the fuel surcharge.
- Not included: The national park entrance fee and tips.
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen.
- Light clothes in summer and warm layers in winter, as the high desert is 20 to 30 degrees cooler.
Tips for a better day
- Pick your departure: Tours leave from Palm Desert, the Palm Springs Art Museum or the Yucca Valley Welcome Center, which is closest to the park.
- Bring a park pass: If you have an America the Beautiful pass, bring it to cover the entrance fee.
- Minimum group: The tour needs 4 people to run, so it may be rescheduled or refunded if numbers are low.
Who it’s best for
Best for: Visitors without a car, or who would rather not drive, who want to see Joshua Tree’s highlights with a guide.
Consider another option if: You prefer to stay closer to Palm Springs. The Aerial Tramway is just minutes from downtown.
Restrictions
Suitable for all fitness levels. Strollers are allowed.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
FAQ about Joshua Tree National Park Small-Group Scenic Tour
How long is the Joshua Tree tour?
About 3 to 5 hours, depending on where you start.
Where does the tour leave from?
From Palm Desert, the Palm Springs Art Museum or the Yucca Valley Welcome Center.
Is the park entrance fee included?
No. The national park entrance fee is extra.
Are snacks included?
Yes. Snacks and bottled water are included.
Is the vehicle air-conditioned?
Yes.
Is it a small group?
Yes. The tour runs in small groups with a minimum of 4 people.
Is it colder in the park?
Yes. The high desert is often 20 to 30 degrees cooler than Palm Springs.
Do I need to be fit?
No. It suits all fitness levels.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from about $127 per person.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
