Feb 11 - Joshua Tree National Park, Joshua Tree, AZ

  Joshua Tree National Park is a very large park, located behind the mountain range, and on the east side of the range.  We decided to drive around to the northwest entrance, and drive in a meandering style along the paved roads to the southeast entrance - about a 90 mile route.  Since the park is at a higher elevation, it was a really cold day (relatively) at about 54 degrees.  But the more difficult issue was the high, cold winds.  We needed our warm coats and hats, so we didn't hike as much as we usually do.
  The northern side of the park was much more interesting than the southern side.  Lots of huge boulder formations, many saguaro cactus fields, and nice vistas.  We drove the Park Blvd, and stopped at most of the pull-overs to enjoy the views, and do some hiking.  We stopped at Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, Keys View, Skull Rock and Split Rock, among others.   As you drive southward, the landscape changes, and the type of cactus also changes.  We stopped at the Cholla Cactus gardens, which are a really different type than the Saguaro Cactus.  Cottonwood Spring is the furthest southeast part of the park.  This is where there was an oasis, where many natives lived, and early settlers to the area, due to the availability of water.  There are huge palm trees, covered from top to bottom with dead fronds.  A very interesting park. 

Joshua Tree National Park photos: