Southern California has many attractions and when you plan a trip there please include Joshua Tree National Park on your list. Even if you are not an avid hiker, you can drive through many parts of this park and still enjoy the great outdoors.
This visitors center is located just off route 62 also known as Twentynine Palms Highway. Since this is a high desert location it is advisable to check weather alerts for this area, especially if coming from Palm Springs or Los Angeles. It is always considerably cooler here. National Parks Service has an excellent website that includes weather alerts if applicable. The visitors center has many knowledgeable guides on hand to answer any questions you may have as well as maps of Joshua Tree National Park hiking trails, shelters, roads, and scenic stopping places.
What makes this visitor’s center unique is that it is also an entrance to the historic Oasis of Mara. This is where original natives found water and food and settled a long time ago.
The walk around the oasis grounds is very easy and is suitable for all ages. This walking trail has concrete pavement and there are several benches. Well-placed information boards tell about the history of the place, geology, plants, and animals. The palms are still there and so is the well with water that is so precious in the deserts.
California fan palm (Washingtonia filifera) only native palm in California that stands tall around the water. These are beautiful trees and visitors love taking their pictures. Of course, this walking trail has many other nature photography ideas on offer. Take your time, have a seat, and enjoy this peaceful and quiet park. If you do you may see birds, lizards, and rabbits that make this oasis their home.
You will see many other Mojave desert plants such as barrel cactus, beavertail cactus, brittlebush, and others.
For more adventurous types there is an off-road section of the trail, just ask for directions at the visitor’s center. To plan a trip to Joshua Tree National Park talk to the personnel at Oasis of Mara and enjoy the great outdoors of Southern California.
1. Landscapes need proper composition and use the rule of thirds.
2. For wildlife, use a fast shutter speed and check the focus (if using autofocus).
3. Sunrise and sunset are best for nature pictures.
4. Use a polarizing filter when sunny or a haze filter if it is overcast.
12.12.2023 by FPImages
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