Weeknight Escape to Joshua Tree

 

Weeknight Escape to Joshua Tree

Not everybody has weekends off, and that usually feels like a bummer. But if you’re free on a Tuesday or Wednesday and itching for something interesting to do, a mid-week trip to Joshua Tree might be the perfect fall escape.

The cooler months from October to May are the best time to visit Joshua Tree—without the weekend crowds. That alone makes the 2.5 hour drive from DTLA worth it. You’ll also find great deals on accommodations, from classic motels to the literal thousands of short-term rentals in the area. Feeling adventurous? Camp out on the BLM land just 10 minutes from the Village.

If you’re a hiker, this is your moment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, nothing beats an early morning hike in a quiet JTNP. No lines of tourists waiting to take photos at Skull Rock, Heart Rock, Penguin Rock, or Arch Rock. If you plan well, you can hit all the highlight photo spots in just a few hours.

There are some good food spots in town, but be mindful of their hours—many close earlier than you might expect. For an early dinner, I personally recommend Sky High Pie for excellent pizza and a nice outdoor area to enjoy one of our famous desert sunsets. Or grab Pad Thai, Chicken Satay, and Crispy Tofu to-go from Royal Siam and take it to the Quail Springs picnic area inside the park to enjoy under the stars. And if you want to close the night out right, swing by Joshua Tree Saloon for fish tacos and a couple of beers.

Only staying one night and heading out in the morning? Breakfast + one last hike. Here’s the plan. Start with a true local gem: Larry & Milt’s Western Café. They open at 7 a.m. and are located right on your way out, at the edge of Yucca Valley. It’s a nondescript spot off Highway 62—you’ll see it on your right just before Walmart.

For your final outdoor stop, hop back on the 62 until you see the big blue horse statue in front of Spaghetti Western. Turn there for Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. It’s a lush little oasis in the middle of the desert and the perfect short hike before heading back to LA.

Mid-week trips don’t have to feel like leftovers—out here, they feel like the real thing.