Adventure Collective
Full Moon Hike in Joshua Tree National Park Experience - Palm Springs

Full Moon Hike in Joshua Tree National Park Experience

Joshua Treemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical shape with the ability to walk uneven terrain comfortably for up to two hours at night.

Overview

Experience Joshua Tree National Park like never before with a magical full moon hike. Discover the desert's unique night life and stunning views guided by a certified expert.

Guided Tour
Yucca Valley, California

Full Moon Hike at Joshua Tree National Park

Ages 6+ • 2 Hours • Up to 24 Spots

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About This Adventure

Embark on a magical two-hour nighttime hike in Joshua Tree National Park, guided by a certified expert. Experience the desert's beauty illuminated by the full moon, while learning about its unique flora, fauna, and cultural significance. Discover the enchanting nocturnal wildlife and breathtaking views in this sacred Mojave landscape.

Experience an enchanting nighttime hike under the full moon. Connect with the life of the desert for a two-hour hike with a certified guide inside the Joshua Tree National Park.

Duration

2 Hours

About

Experience a glimpse of the nighttime desert, under the full moon, immersed in the rustic desert beauty of the Joshua Tree National Park. Connect with the ancestral energies of the land as we learn about flora/fauna, geology, geography, cultural/historical significance, as well as the natural elemental energies that converge in this unique stretch of the Mojave Desert.

Our trail takes us through a breathtaking section of the national park and allows us time to truly connect with the rich surrounding terrain. Illuminated by the charging energies of the full moon, we will guide our way through the abundant desert landscape. As this is the desert, there is a wide range of nocturnal wildlife and endless views to behold. The nature walk/hiking portion of our experience is led by a local, certified guide, who is well versed in the natural beauty of the sacred land.

Offering available on/around the full moon from May to November.

More Info

Safety

  • Participants must be physically capable of walking a total of one mile (1.6 km) with slight elevation gain.
  • Closed-toed shoes are mandatory.
  • One liter of water per person is recommended.
  • Please keep children close to parents, as with the night time it is easy to become lost once separated from the group.
  • Be prepared for varying temperatures and weather conditions. You may need a hat, jacket, and gloves. Depending on the season, the temperature may drop quickly as the sun goes down.

Flashlights, headlamps, and flash photography are strictly not allowed. You may bring flashlights and headlamps with you, but their use is not allowed except by permission of the guide. While photography is allowed and encouraged, no tripods or flash photography will be allowed during the experience. To preserve everyone's night vision and program experience, the use of flashlights or headlamps are also not allowed.

Fitness The trail is one mile (1.61 km) long and rated as easy. You must be able to hike the entire trail. We work as a team and will stay together for safety protocol. No one is permitted to leave the program early or return to the parking area without a guide.

Restrooms Toilets are located at the trailhead area.

Seating Seating is not available on the hike.

Pets Pets are not allowed on any trails inside the park.

Carpooling Parking for programs can be limited. Please carpool with friends and family if possible while visiting JTNP. If you plan to ride with friends and need to drive separate cars, please consider meeting at a location outside the park and carpooling into the park together in one vehicle.

Adventure Tips

Bring a Headlamp

Even under the full moon, some areas can be quite dark; a headlamp ensures safe footing on rocky terrain.

Wear Layers

Desert temperatures drop significantly at night, so dressing in layers keeps you comfortable throughout the hike.

Stay on Marked Trails

To protect the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid getting lost, always stay on the designated paths during the hike.

Hydrate Before the Hike

Although the temperatures are cooler, staying hydrated is important to avoid dehydration in the dry desert air.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Desert kangaroo rats
  • Barn owls

History

Joshua Tree holds cultural significance for native tribes like the Serrano and Cahuilla, who used the area for seasonal gathering and rituals.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to minimize light pollution and stay on trails to protect desert ecosystems and nocturnal wildlife habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Palm Springs

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Headlamp with Extra Batteries

Essential

Provides hands-free lighting to navigate the trails safely in low-light conditions.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjustable layers help maintain comfort as desert temperatures change quickly after dark.

fall specific

Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential

Protects feet and provides traction on rocky, uneven desert terrain.

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is important even during cooler nighttime hikes.