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Hidden Valley
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Southern Desert
Joshua Tree
When to go102F day, 80F night
01 · The call
Not ideal nowWhy now
An off month here — the season window falls elsewhere in the year.
Watch out
Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect
Plan B
Keep the trip anchored around Joshua Tree town with a shorter loop through Hidden Valley and Barker Dam.
Why now
An off month here — the season window falls elsewhere in the year.
Watch out
Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect
Plan B
Keep the trip anchored around Joshua Tree town with a shorter loop through Hidden Valley and Barker Dam.
02 · The story
boulder desert guide
Joshua Tree is not just a place to see one namesake tree.
boulder desert guide
Joshua Tree is not just a place to see one namesake tree.
Field notes
Heads up
Cold nights after hot days. Days can run hot and nights can drop hard, often with a 30-40 degree swing.
Snakes and spines in the shade. Watch where you put hands and feet around rocks, brush, cactus, and shaded spots.
First-time desert weekends from Los Angeles or San DiegoPhotography, boulder scenery, and short loop hikesGroups that want a park day plus a real town eveningTravelers who like design-forward motels, cabins, and desert restaurants
03 · Highlights
04 · The window
- Peak
- October-April
- Skip
- June-September
05 · The conditions
Current weather
102F day, 80F night
13% chance of rain
15 mph wind
Heat may shape the day
Plan shade + AC breaks
Nearest towns: Palm Springs · Barstow
Updated Aug 23, 2026, 12:12 PM
06 · On the ground
Access
- Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect
- Oasis of Mara Trail Partial Closure
Before you go
- No in-park services
Road and weather data checked Aug 23, 2026, 12:12 PM
Roads, fire, and closures
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Roads, fire, and closures
Official alerts
Last checked
Aug 23, 2026, 12:12 PM
The 49 Palms trail along with some campgrounds, facilities, and areas have adjusted availability during the summer. For the full list of changes, please visit our Summer Closures page.
May 28, 2026 → —·SevereNPS · Information
Due to a heavy flooding event, the Oasis of Mara Trail is closed past the Oasis.
Next step
