California Day 3: Joshua Tree and Points South

This morning, I woke up early again to view more of Joshua Tree National Park. This time, I took the turn to Pinto Basin Road toward the Cottonwood Springs area and exited the park to the south toward Salton Sea.

There were (you’re shocked, I know) more rock formations along this route.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

The famous Cholla Cactus Garden trail was closed for trail restoration, but some of the “garden” was accessible from the main road. They look so fuzzy and inviting, but I am told they are anything but soft and fuzzy. (I decided not to test that theory.)

Cholla Cactus Garden, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Cholla Cactus Garden, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Cholla Cactus Garden, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

I took a brief hike at the Cottonwood Spring area, which offered a small bit of oasis from the dry scrub of the surrounding desert.

Cottonwood Spring, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Cottonwood Spring, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, California

After departing the park, I drove along Box Canyon Road toward the north shore of Salton Sea.

Box Canyon Road, north of North Shore, California

Box Canyon Road, north of North Shore, California

Box Canyon Road, north of North Shore, California

Box Canyon Road, north of North Shore, California

I spent almost five hours below sea level today, bottoming out at -66 m / -216 ft. And yet still breathing air.

So very odd …

A few scenes from the north shore of Salton Sea: (The south / west shore wasn’t exactly photogenic 🥲.)

Salton Sea, southeast of North Shore, California

Salton Sea, southeast of North Shore, California

I’ll be in Palm Springs for a day or two (mostly working, so don’t expect much for photos) and then heading home.