Joshua Tree and Palm Springs with Family (December Edition)

 


Planning a quick family-friendly getaway from Los Angeles during the Christmas holidays? Here’s a perfect 2-day itinerary for exploring the wonders of Joshua Tree and Palm Springs, complete with cozy Airbnb accommodation, family hikes, and a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—all tailored for vegetarian families traveling with kids.

What to Expect: Weather in December

  • Joshua Tree: Days are sunny and mild (50–60°F), while nights are cold, dropping to 30–40°F.
  • Palm Springs: Warmer during the day (65–70°F) but cools down to ~45°F at night.
  • Mt. San Jacinto (Tramway): Temperatures at the top can drop to 20–40°F, and there might be snow, so dress warmly!

What to Pack

  1. Clothing:

    • Warm layers: Jackets, sweaters, gloves, and scarves for chilly mornings and evenings.
    • Comfortable hiking shoes for the desert trails.
    • Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for daytime hikes.
    • Waterproof jackets and boots if there’s snow near the tramway.

  2. Essentials for Families:

    • A backpack with snacks, water bottles, and reusable utensils.
    • Blanket for kids (especially if they nap during the drive).
    • Entertainment: Books, toys, or tablets for downtime.

  3. Food:

    • Pack plenty of vegetarian snacks: granola bars, trail mix, fruits, and sandwiches.
    • Instant noodles or easy-to-cook meals for Airbnb stays.
    • Reusable containers to store leftovers or picnic food.

  4. Other Items:

    • Portable phone chargers.
    • Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
    • Camera for capturing beautiful desert landscapes.
    • First aid kit with basic medications for kids.

Day 1: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree

Morning: Start Early

  • Departure Time: 7:00 AM.
  • Drive Time: ~2-2.5 hours (130 miles).
  • Fuel Cost: ~$30 (round trip).

Things to Do in Joshua Tree

  1. Hidden Valley Trail

    • Why Visit: This 1-mile loop is perfect for kids and families, with giant boulders and unique plants to explore.
    • Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours.
    • Cost: Free with park admission ($30 per vehicle).

  2. Barker Dam Trail

    • Why Visit: A short, 1.3-mile trail featuring historic petroglyphs and occasional sightings of birds and desert wildlife.
    • Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours.

  3. Picnic Lunch in the Park

    • What to Pack: Veggie sandwiches, chips, fruit, and juices for an outdoor meal. Picnic areas near Barker Dam or Hidden Valley are great spots.

  4. Cholla Cactus Garden

    • Why Visit: A quick stop for stunning photos and a short, kid-friendly walk among unique cacti.
    • Time Needed: 30 minutes.

Evening: Check into Your Airbnb

  • Accommodation: Choose a family-friendly Airbnb in Joshua Tree with cozy amenities like a fire pit or outdoor seating. Prices range from ~$100–150 per night.
  • Dinner:
    • Cook a simple vegetarian meal at the Airbnb, like pasta, dal-rice, or instant noodles.
    • Alternatively, try local spots like Natural Sisters Café for vegetarian and vegan options (~$15–20 per person).

Night Activity:

  • Stargazing: Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering breathtaking views of the stars. Bring a blanket and enjoy the night sky with your family.

Day 2: Joshua Tree to Palm Springs

Morning: Drive to Palm Springs

  • Departure Time: 8:30 AM.
  • Drive Time: ~1 hour (40 miles).

Things to Do in Palm Springs

  1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

    • Why Visit: A 10-minute ride takes you to Mt. San Jacinto State Park, where you’ll find snow-covered trails and stunning views.
    • Cost: $30 per adult, $18 per child (3–10 years), plus $12 parking ($90 total for a family of 3).
    • Time Needed: 2–3 hours.

  2. Downtown Palm Springs

    • Explore shops and enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Tyler’s Burgers (veggie options) or Palm Greens Café (~$15–20 per person).

  3. Moorten Botanical Garden (Optional)

    • Why Visit: A budget-friendly attraction with beautiful desert plants and cacti.
    • Cost: ~$5 per person.
    • Time Needed: 1 hour.

Afternoon: Drive Back to Los Angeles

  • Departure Time: Around 4:30 PM.
  • Drive Time: ~2–2.5 hours. Arrive in LA by 7:00 PM.

Budget Breakdown

CategoryEstimated Cost (for 3 people)
Fuel~$30
Joshua Tree Entry Fee$30 per vehicle
Airbnb (1 night)~$120
Palm Springs Tramway~$90
Food (2 days)~$100–120
Miscellaneous (Snacks/Souvenirs)~$30-50

Total Estimated Cost: ~$400–450

Travel Tips

  1. Book Early:

    • Reserve your Airbnb and Tramway tickets well in advance, as the holiday season sees increased demand.

  2. Pack Smart:

    • Bring plenty of vegetarian snacks and easy-to-cook meals to reduce dining costs.

  3. Stargazing Tip:

    • For the best views, visit the Cap Rock or Skull Rock areas in Joshua Tree.

  4. Plan for Kids:

    • Bring board games, toys, or activities to keep kids entertained during downtime.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities, all while staying within budget.

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