Spring 2017: Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the more popular parks in the national parks system.  But I confess to a degree of disappointment.  Joshua Trees are certainly interesting.  The boulders are also interesting.  So are two very nice viewpoints, Keys View and Ryan Mountain.  But the rest of the park falls into my good-but-not-great category.  Here are just a few pictures.

You can find maps of the backpacking segment here and here.

Keys View is a 20 minute drive, but it's worth it.
Keys View is a 20 minute drive, but it’s worth it.
Also shot at Keys View
Also shot at Keys View
IMG_5291
Along the California Riding and Hiking Trail, one of few trails suitable for backpacking.
Venomous or not, these critters aways cause some initial excitement.
Venomous or not, these critters aways cause some initial excitement.
I don't know what these are called, but they're not common.
I don’t know what these are called, but they’re not common.
One view from the summit of Ryan Mountain
One view from the summit of Ryan Mountain

Totals for Joshua Tree: 2 days, 24 miles

Next destination: Superstition Wilderness