Travel Spotlight: What To Do In Joshua Tree

This year’s AETHER Rally is coming up this weekend, May 3-5, in Pioneertown, just outside Joshua Tree National Park and only a couple hours from Los Angeles. Whether you’re coming with us or have a future Joshua Tree trip planned, here are few must-dos in the desert.

Arch Rock

Given the incredible desert landscape, hiking in Joshua Tree National Park should be at the top of your to-do list. Whether you're looking for something easy or super strenuous, there is a hike for you to tackle. For an easy option, Arch Rock is a short, half-mile trail walk that ends in a stunning, arc-like rock formation. Another popular walk is Willow Hole trail, which winds through nearly seven miles of flat desert and rocky terrain. Depending on the weather, hikers might even come across a flowing creek. If you’re a serious hiker looking for a challenge, Lost Horse Mine Loop is ideal. The steep and winding six-and-a-half mile trail was once used to transport wagons to a gold mine. Now abandoned, the mine is a popular destination for spectacular views of the desert.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a popular way to access and experience Joshua Tree National Park. There are more than two-hundred miles of designated equestrian trails and open land throughout the park to explore. Guided rides through Joshua Tree are offered by Knob Hill Ranch, Coyote Ridge Stable, and The Crazy Horse Ranch.

The Sound Bath at Integratron

The Integratron was built in 1953 by George Van Tassel, a successful aerospace engineer and ufologist. The building now serves as a place for visitors to experience 60-minute sound baths that are supposed to bring about feelings of relaxation and restoration. The baths consist of several quartz crystal bowls being played live, each said to be tuned to the chakras of the body. At the conclusion of a sound bath, attendees are supposed to feel rejuvenated. For more details and booking information, check out their website.