We are the biggest fans of the National Parks. We try to visit as many as we can whenever we travel anywhere. There are so many cool things to see inside these parks. So many beautiful places and so much to learn!
Our boys have over 100 different junior ranger badges from National Parks, and other National Sites throughout Utah and the United States.
We also know that visiting a National Park requires some good information and planning, so we share all the details from our visit on these posts. We give tips and tricks, and all the things you need to know.
There are also specific posts about some of our favorite hikes in the national sites. This is to help you choose which trails are going to work for your family.
The Bajada Nature Trail in Joshua Tree is at the very southeast corner of the national park. It is near the entrance to the park and would be a great stop to get out and stretch your legs before arriving at the Cottonwood Visitor Center. The hike is totally flat and…
Our favorite hike in Joshua Tree National Park was Barker Dam. This was likely influenced by the fact that it was the first hike we did in the morning and there was almost nobody out on the trail. There was plenty of wildlife, and it was nice and cool just after…
Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree isn't really a hike, but it is an amazing stop in Joshua Tree National Park. This stop only requires some gentle strolling. The distance is variable according to your mood. We only walked a little over a quarter of a mile loop. The cactus garden…
Cap Rock in Joshua Tree is a short, flat, easy nature trail that is appropriate for everyone. This trail is not paved, but it is packed dirt, so wheels would be appropriate for this hike. There is limited shade like all of the trails in Joshua Tree, and a few signs…
The Oasis of Mara is a cool little stop just outside of Joshua Tree National Park near the northeast entrance. Though this hike technically lies in the town of Twentynine Palms, it was deeded to the park and used as the Visitor Center. More recently, the Visitor Center was moved into…
Hidden Valley Hike in Joshua Tree National Park is a short, easy family-friendly hike. The distance is only about a mile, and there is very little elevation change. Due to uneven trail, wheels would not be able to do this route, but most sure-footed hikers should have an easy, fun time.…