Dual Delights: Unveiling the Natural Wonders of Joshua Tree and the Urban Charms of Palm Springs
by Stefanie Michaels
At just about a three-hour’s drive from LA, Californian outdoor enthusiasts have made that short trek to Joshua Tree National Park for ages where two distinct desert ecosystems (Mojave and Colorado) co-exist. But, you don’t have to be at the top of your game to enjoy a hike in the park.
On a recent girl’s trip, we hiked the Hidden Valley Trail. Once serving as a cattle rustler’s hideout, this one-mile loop is mostly flat and features giant boulders which draw even the most avid rock climber. You can make a weekend out of your excursion by opting to camp for the ultimate in stargazing, as Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park. Or, stay at The Kellogg Doolittle House which is now available for the first time as an Airbnb luxe exclusive and is among the smattering of unique stays within the park.
But, if you want a bit of outdoors mixed in with a luxe city-stay, Palm Springs is just an hour away. If you see the “Forever Marilyn” sculpture, you know you’re in the right spot. At the corner of Museum Way and Belardo Road, the 26-foot landmark pays homage to the starlet’s connection to Palm Springs, as this is where she was discovered in 1949 by the infamous William Morris talent agent – Johnny Hyde.
EAT
For breakfast, Farm offers French cuisine in a country-chic setting. From an array of crepes to curiosities such as the bacon, chicken and waffles are a great way to start the day. Staying on the French side of things, dinner is served at Le Vallauris with chef Jean Paul-Lair within the Palm Springs Soho House. And, for dinner and a show, hang where Frank Sinatra and his “pack” would go – Michael Holmes’ Purple Room.
Play
The Palm Springs Art Museum is the largest cultural collection in the Coachella Valley with a permanent collection of over 12,000 objects. And, as the Cahuilla people were the original stewards of this region, three other museums should be on your list to explore – Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, Cabazon Cultural Museum, and Malki Museum. But, a trip to Palm Springs wouldn’t be complete without taking a dip in one of the numerous mineral water spas in the area.
Stay
You could easily count one of the many resorts and boutique hotels of Palm Springs as a one-stop shop. A few to check out are Parker Palm Springs, The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows, and Villa Royale. Each of these stays offer a host of amenities such as fine dining options, spa services, and majestic views of three mountain ranges – San Jacinto, The Santa Rosa, and The San Bernardino.
Did you know?
Palm Springs, with its distinctive mid-century modern architecture and the allure of a desert oasis, was once a favored hideaway for Hollywood icons like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Marilyn Monroe. These stars often sought solace and revelry in Palm Springs, a tranquil escape from the urban chaos of Los Angeles.
On the other hand, Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and otherworldly landscapes. Thanks to its status as an International Dark Sky Park, it’s a sanctuary for those who love stargazing. It provides unobstructed views of the celestial wonders, far from the glare of city lights.
A little history:
The allure of Palm Springs as a desert retreat can be traced back to the early 20th century when settlers and indigenous people discovered its natural hot springs. However, it was in the 1930s that it truly came into its own, attracting Hollywood celebrities seeking a break from their fast-paced lives.
The construction of opulent hotels and estates and its proximity to Los Angeles solidified its reputation as a glamorous getaway. In contrast, the history of Joshua Tree National Park is deeply intertwined with conservation. It was first established as a national monument in 1936 and later upgraded to a national park in 1994.
The park preserves the unique flora and fauna of the Mojave and Colorado deserts and the cultural heritage of indigenous tribes who have inhabited the region for millennia. Both destinations continue to enchant visitors with their rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant communities.
