The park is named for this strange form of yucca, and the trees may be found in clusters throughout the western half of the park.
2. Fortynine Palms Oasis:
A 1.5-mile trail leads to a wildlife watering hole and a stand of pines much like the neighboring Oasis of Mara — site of the north side visitor center.
3. Hidden Valley:
The park’s massive boulders are hard to miss, and they crop up in many places. These shade a trail said to be a cattle rustlers’ hideout in the old days.
4. Jumbo Rocks:
Domes, spires and balanced rocks create a formless jumble of monzonite and a memorable geological display.
5. Keys View:
An all-inclusive panorama from 5,185 feet takes in mountains, valley and desert all at once.
6. Cholla Cactus Garden:
A concentration of cactus plants and other Colorado Desert flora await discovery on a nature trail that a variety of creatures also find appealing.
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7. Transition Zone:
The high Mojave gives way to the Colorado Desert — a corner of the vast Sonoran Desert — where the Joshua trees and other tall plants are replaced by lowland plants adapted to the arid atmosphere.
8. Cottonwood Spring:
Birds flock to the palm oasis here. A small visitor center is a mile away, and a 4-mile trail starts here, leading to the Lost Palms Oasis.