California
Joshua Tree National Park Cholla Cactus Garden
Point of Interest
The Cholla Cactus Garden sits at 3,000 feet elevation in Joshua Tree’s eastern desert, where thousands of teddy bear cholla create a surreal forest of fuzzy-looking but viciously spined cacti. A paved quarter-mile interpretive loop winds through the dense grove, with parking for about 20 vehicles. Best light is early morning or late afternoon when the backlit spines glow golden against the desert backdrop.
Access is straightforward from Pinto Basin Road, about 20 miles north of the Cottonwood entrance. No facilities here beyond the parking area and trail markers. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making early morning visits essential May through September.
Surreal cholla forest in Joshua Tree's desert heart
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 3000 ft |
| Nearest town | Twentynine Palms, California |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | NPS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |