Journey into Joshua Tree On-Demand Audio Tour and Locals Guide
Active
3h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the wonder of Joshua Tree National Park on this self-guided driving tour from Drives & Detours. Using our mobile app and GPS-triggered audio, you’ll cruise through surreal desert landscapes and discover iconic stops like Skull Rock, Hidden Valley, and the Cholla Cactus Garden—along with hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
Start the tour from either the West or North park entrance and travel at your own pace. Whether you're snapping photos, hiking short trails, or just enjoying the views from your car, the tour offers a flexible, informative, and offline-friendly way to explore.
You’ll also receive free access to our Local’s Guide, packed with handpicked recommendations for restaurants, art galleries, roadside attractions, and more in Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and Pioneertown—perfect for planning a full day or weekend in the area.
Available options
Journey into Joshua Tree On-Demand Audio Tour and Locals Guide
What's included
App & Tour Download
Free Local Area Guide (Joshua Tree & Surrounding Areas)
Flexible Usage (unlimited access within 30-days)
Detailed itinerary
1
Quail Springs is a trailhead and picnic area. It's a great place to get out and walk around, explore some boulders, and take some pictures. An optional hike can take you to a nearby homestead site with rock carvings.
2
Boy Scout Trail provides hiking access to Indian Cove as well as Willow Hole, which is an oasis tucked into the Wonderland of Rocks area. The rock formations and unique landscape can make this a mesmerizing place to hike, especially at the right time of day.
3
The Hidden Valley Trail is a relatively easy one-mile loop that circles a secluded valley surrounded by towering rock formations. It’s a particularly scenic hike, especially given how short and level it is.
4
Take a short loop hike to a natural tank that was artificially fortified by ranchers in the early 1900’s to collect rain and runoff for livestock. On the way back, keep your eyes out for some petroglyphs and rock art.
5
Optional hike from the Barker Dam area to visit the Wall Street Mill, which processed ore that was extracted from nearby mines. Also along the way are the Wonderland Ranch homestead ruins.
6
Stop at this scenic overlook that provides a sweeping panorama of the Coachella Valley. On a clear day, you can see for miles, from the Salton Sea to the south, to Mount San Jacinto which towers above Palm Springs at an elevation of 10,830 feet.
7
Take a short hike (optional) to this old homestead site of a wealthy rancher turned mine operator.
8
Get out and explore a mini slot canyon tucked into the boulders!
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Optional but challenging hike to the top of Ryan Mountain. Because of its central location within the park, the views from the top can be stunning.
10
Located right along the road, Skull Rock is a natural rock formation and popular photo spot.
11
Another optional loop hike that gets a little less traffic than some of the other sites in the park.
12
Relatively easy and popular hike that lets you visit 2 natural rock formations on one hike, Arch Rock and Heart Rock.
13
Get a taste of Joshua Tree's lower desert ecosystem, the Colorado Desert. You'll be surrounded by fuzzy-looking Teddy Bear Cholla, but you don't want to touch them!
What's not included
Food & Drink
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Written guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.5
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
Start from either of the main park entrances (West or North)
All suggested hikes are optional—tour takes ~3 hours without hiking
Free Local’s Guide included with additional sights and activities nearby
Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle
Download the Drives & Detours app and tour before arriving in the park
Bring a car charger or fully charged phone
Meeting point
Option 2: The audio tour will start automatically after entering Joshua Tree National Park through the North Entrance Station.
Important notes
IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: JTV711 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW - To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. Be sure to download the tour in advance because there is NO CELL SERVICE in the park.
DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:
1. Open app, tap "Driving Tours", then "Journey into Joshua Tree"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)
STARTING THE TOUR:
1. Open app and select "Journey into Joshua Tree".
2. Tap "Start Tour" as you approach entrance station.
3. Enter JTNP through West OR North Entrance Station and pay entrance fee (pro tip, during busy season, the North Entrance usually has a shorter line!)
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920
About Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert resort city in Southern California known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities, mid-century modern architecture, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Top Attractions
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A scenic tram ride from the desert floor to the mountaintops, offering stunning views and access to hiking trails.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate
Palm Springs Art Museum
A premier destination for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design, housed in a striking mid-century modern building.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
Moderate
Joshua Tree National Park
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free entry for some areas, moderate for others
Palm Springs Walk of Stars
A tribute to celebrities who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, with stars embedded in the sidewalks of downtown Palm Springs.
Historical/Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
In-N-Out Burger
A California classic, known for its fresh, high-quality burgers and fries.
Fast Food
Vegetarian options available
Chef's Table at The Parker
A fine dining experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Palm Springs Caesar Salad
A local twist on the classic Caesar salad, often featuring fresh greens, avocado, and a unique dressing.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Golfing
Poolside lounging
Art museum visits
Architectural tours
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This is the most popular time to visit with pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities in full swing.
15°C to 30°C
60°F to 85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Palm Springs is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a secure visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious in isolated areas at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Palm Springs International Airport • 3 miles from city center
By train
Palm Springs Station
By bus
Palm Springs Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Palm Springs
The Historic District
South Palm Springs
Day trips
Joshua Tree National Park
35 miles • Full day
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Salton Sea
45 miles • Half day
A unique and somewhat eerie destination known for its shrinking lake and diverse birdlife.
Cathedral City
10 miles • Half day
A vibrant city known for its murals, festivals, and diverse dining options.
Festivals
Palm Springs International Film Festival • January
Palm Springs Pride • November
Palm Springs VillageFest • Thursday evenings year-round
Pro tips
- Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Explore the mid-century modern architecture with a guided tour
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere
- Take advantage of the numerous golf courses and spas
- Visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park for a unique desert experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
