Cima Dome

This gentle granite dome spans 75 square miles and supports the world’s most extensive Joshua tree forest – over 700,000 trees in various age classes from seedlings to ancient specimens over 200 years old. The dome rises gradually 1,500 feet above the surrounding desert with volcanic cinder cones dotting the landscape. A rough jeep trail leads to Teutonia Peak for panoramic views, but the real attraction is driving slowly through the forest on Cima Road.

Access via Cima Road between I-15 and Kelso Cima Road – both paved sections through the forest. The trees are most photogenic in spring when some bloom with clusters of cream-colored flowers. Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography. No facilities, but several primitive camping spots exist along the unmarked roads that branch into the forest.

World's largest Joshua tree forest on granite dome