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Joshua Tree encompasses three of California’s ecoregions. Its geology shows the effects of plate tectonics, volcanism, mountain-building, and stark erosion. With elevations ranging from 900 feet to over 5,000 feet above sea level, the park is home to a diversity of biological communities found nowhere else in such proximity. Sand dunes, dry lakes, flat valleys, extraordinarily rugged mountains, granitic monoliths, and oases are all found within its nearly 800,000 acres. Each feature makes its contribution to the natural tapestry of the southwest.
Cryptobiotic CrustsAlso known as desert glue, this layer of biotic organisms is hidden in plain sight on top of the soil! 
DesertsLearn about what makes a desert ecosystem and why we have desert ecosystems in this part of California! 
Desert Springs MonitoringJoin staff from the Mojave Desert Inventory and Monitoring Network for a day in the field monitoring desert springs. 
Fan PalmsThere are five palm oases in the park! 
FaultsJoshua Tree is crisscrossed with hundreds of faults, and it is a great place to see raw rocks and the effects of earthquakes. 
FossilsJoshua Tree was once home to Columbian mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, giant ground sloths, horses, camels, and llamas! 
Geological FormationsGeologists believe the face of our modern landscape was born more than 100 million years ago. 
MountainsWithin the park there are six distinct mountain ranges. 
WildernessToday, about 85% of Joshua Tree National Park is managed as wilderness. |
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Last updated: March 7, 2022