The Ultimate Weekend Guide for Joshua Tree National Park/City, CA and The High Desert (Gluten-free, plant-based-friendly)
Joshua Tree is a magical place, situated between California’s Mojave Desert and the lower Colorado Desert. It’s home to the native Joshua Tree (hence the name), Joshua Tree National Park, and the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Its beautiful topography and nature have a long history of luring in artists, hikers, #vanlife-rs, and rock climbers alike. Located only 2.5 hours away from both Los Angeles and San Diego, it’s no wonder why so many Angelinos and San Diegans purchase second homes here. Joshua Tree and its neighboring high desert cities and communities (29 Palms, Yucca Valley, Landers, Flamingo Heights, Pioneer Town) have quite a bit to offer. Whether you’re visiting for a day, the weekend, or forever, here are our must-dos…
Instagram hot-tip: Follow @mojave.underground for the latest events happening in the High Dez.
Where to Stay
My home @casa.erimos - Joshua Tree’s First and Only Gluten-Free and Holistic AirBnB!
Stargaze in our ozone hot tub, or one of our two beautiful hammocks underneath our Joshua Tree. Or, fire up the barbecue and share a leisurely dinner (with our fully stocked kitchen) on the covered porch at our lovely abode, located between downtown Joshua Tree, and Joshua Tree National Park. The entire house is bathed in natural light, blending Swedish modern wood accent walls, antique touches, and concrete floors.
The space
How is our home holistic?
1. We use all free-and-clear (unscented) products to clean the home and the bedding
2. Our bedding and towels are 100% (mostly organic) cotton and allergen-friendly, including our allergen-free mattress covers
3. The air filtration is provided by Molekule Air Filter and our house plants. The HVAC filter is regularly changed.
4. We have a Vitruvi diffuser that uses Doterra essential oils
5. There is a composting bin in the backyard - Composting helps keep the matter out of landfills.
6. Our WiFi router and modem are protected by an EMF cover. We also have a shield over our breaker and a Somavedic that protects up to 100 ft.
7. You have access to our Vitamix blender, juicer, milk frother/warmer/cooler, organic teas, and more
8. We have a shower and bath filter to filter out any chlorine or other harmful substances
9. We have 100% honey wax candles throughout the home from a local maker
10. You have access to our filtered water in our fridge, but also, our Mountain Valley Spring Water from our self-cleaning ozonated water dispenser
11. Warm up your food in our Toaster Oven. No microwaves here. Sorry, not sorry.
12. A Tushy bidet is located in the bathroom for use, along with bamboo toilet paper and a squatty potty
13. Non-toxic Caraway and Only Pans for use
14. We have an ozone hot tub that is cleaned with bromine
15. Organic teas, coffee, and condiments provided for your enjoyment
16. Good energy! We clear the space with palo santo (purchased sustainably) after each stay.
How is this home gluten-free?
Our spices, condiments, teas, and other pantry items are all gluten-free, as well as anything we use to clean our home. In addition, we have a 100% gluten-free cabinet, that only guests who are gluten-free have access to. This cabinet includes separate cookware and utensils, and toaster bags to use in areas where cross-contact may occur (toaster oven, bbq, etc.) ***Although we ask that our guests not allow anything with gluten to touch items in this cabinet, we can’t guarantee that there hasn’t been any cross-contact.
Other highlights:
1. A beautiful Joshua Tree sits in our backyard, and you have the option to bask underneath it on either of our two large hammocks
2. A record player with plenty of records to play, as well as a Bluetooth speaker
3. There is a gas BBQ for use
4. Our beautiful patio is perfect for drinking your morning cup of coffee, or tea while staring at the Copper Mountains and bird watching. Don’t forget to also use the picnic table outside!
5. Birdfeeder is available - Be sure to buy bird seeds in town if you’d like to bird watch
6. Fire pit available - Please purchase firewood in town (only for use during colder months)
7. One of our rooms has a workstation
8. Washer and Dryer can be used in the garage
9. Both couches in our living room turn into full-size beds!
10. There are two swinging chairs behind the outdoor picnic table you can swing on :)
11. Adorable corn hole set in the backyard
12. Lots of board games, including We Are Not Really Strangers card games
Reserve your future stay HERE Don’t see a date you’re looking for? Contact us!
Breakfast
Food for Thought Cafe
Located inside the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, this is a hidden gem. An entirely vegetarian cafe, with MANY gluten-free options. The staff is knowledgeable about cross-contact. I love the mid-century architecture and walking around the grounds. They offer wi-fi and AC inside, and the views outside are gorgeous. There’s so much to see and experience on this property, including art installations, dreamy architecture, and energy vortexes!
Crossroads Cafe
Located in downtown Joshua Tree, they have plenty of options to make everyone happy. The staff is knowledgeable about cross-contact and can substitute pretty much anything to make your meal gluten-free.
Cafe Frontier
This cafe is in Yucca Valley, with lots of sandwich and soup options, and many which are gluten-free. Ensure that the person taking your order knows that you have Celiac, in order for them to take proper precautions. I personally like their avocado toasts, and they always heat it up in a separate pan for me. Did I also maybe see Elizabeth Olsen while I was there? Maybe… FYI they also offer lunch!
Coffee
Joshua Tree Coffee Company
Fresh, sustainable and local, roasted in downtown Joshua Tree. For me, it’s the best and only coffee choice in Joshua Tree. They have a few alternative milk options, as well as a couple of gluten-free snack options.
The Dez Fine Food
A corner store with a cold kitchen and espresso bar. They often have both gluten-free and plant-based items in their cold case, granted they can’t guarantee no cross contact.
Lunch
Yucca Valley Outpost
This is my fav spot from Friday- to Sunday, or whenever they are open. They are 100% vegan and nut-free, and almost all gluten-free. Their salads, dips, and desserts are heavenly. I can’t leave without getting their rose teff sparkling soda, or whatever dessert they have as a special. Order in advance, as they make everything fresh to order, and let them know of any cross-contact concerns.
The Yucca Tree Eatery
An all-organic cafe with lots of plant-based and gluten-free options. They usually have fresh pressed juice and shots. I LOVE their artichoke soup.
Natural Sisters Cafe
Situated right downtown - This is an all-organic cafe with some yummy gluten-free options and fresh baked goods. I tend to get their soup of the day, a sandwich, fresh juice, and a baked good — like a chickpea flour muffin (mmm). They are also open for breakfast! Ensure that you let them know of your allergies as they are not 100% gluten-free. Keep in mind, that there is almost always a line during the weekends. Call head.
La Copine Kitchen
American cuisine, with a funky flare. They are only open seasonally, but always delicious, with organic and gluten-free options to boot! Be sure to let them know if you have Celiac, or any other intolerances. They are only open until 4 and are the busiest restaurant in the high dez. Be sure to make a reservation, or be ok with waiting a while.
Sam’s Indian Food and Pizza
Sam’s is located in downtown Joshua Tree, and is one of Morongo Basin’s only Indian restaurants. One of the chefs at Red Dog (see below) has celiac and said the is a safe go-to spot for him. Almost everything is gluten-free on the menu, except for the pizza. With that said, there is some risk of cross-contact, however, I haven’t had any issues. If you do decide to list, ensure the staff knows of your dietary restrictions.
Dinner
Pie For The People
Also, located downtown, they offer an amazing gluten-free crust option for their pizzas! Even better, for us non-dairy eaters, they have vegan options! Yes, now you can have the best of both worlds after your hike in Joshua Tree. Be sure to let know you are Celiac, or if you have any other intolerances.
The Red Dog Saloon (Pioneer Town)
Established in 1946, and reopened in 2020. This saloon / restaurant has beautiful indoor and outdoor seating. A perfect place to chill after exploring downtown Pioneer Town. They have plenty of items on their menu, and a few that are both gluten and dairy free. One of their chefs is also celiac, and as you can, they label when something is gluten-free. Although they aren’t a dedicated kitchen, they seem to take allergies very seriously.
Dinner + Cocktails in 29 Palms
Kitchen in the Desert
Looking for a drink to cool you down, or warm you up. This is the place. A gorgeous Caribbean-style restaurant located in 29 Palms that serves up refreshing drinks like cucumber cilantro lemonade. V mocktail friendly.
Tiny Pony
The cutest pony show around! This is an adorable bar and restaurant in Yucca Valley. They have fun things happening like karaoke, and often host food pop-ups. I never miss when @ethicalcornucopia does a pop-up. They are vegan, with lots of GF options.
Giant Rock Meeting Room (Flamingo Heights/ Landers
This is a funky pizza shop (sadly not gf), music venue, and bar in Flamingo Heights (by La Copine!). They have hard kombucha on tap AND Nice Dream ice cream bars.
***Ethical Cornucopia often does pop-ups and does weekly food delivery, if that’s something you’re looking for. Their food is phenomenal and although they can’t guarantee no cross-contact, they are aware.
Grocery
Joshua Tree Health Foods
Located downtown, this market has enough gluten-free and vegan products to fill your heart’s content. Especially if you’re stocking up for a camping trip in Joshua Tree National Park, or staying at a nearby Airbnb.
Joshua Tree Certified Farmers’ Market
If you happen to be in Joshua Tree on a Saturday, between 8 AM - 1 PM, then you should definitely make a pit stop here. Locally grown everything, and some of the best dates, fruits, and nuts you can get your hands on!
My favs include Esther’s Farm (garlic pistachios), Nice Dream ice creams, Inland Honey (love their bee pollen too!), Sage Circle Microgreens, Cherry’s Rugelah, and Kombucha. ALL GF of course. Also, that’s where I get my bee’s wax candles.
***29 Palms also has a farmer’s market from 5-9 PM if you feel like sleeping in, or are in the mood for a second dose of local goodness and eats.
It should also be mentioned that both Vons and Grocery Outlet in Yucca Valley have wonderful GF and vegan sections.
Sue’s Health Foods
A healthy grocery store in Yucca Valley is full of supplements, bulk items, refrigerated and frozen foods, specialty items, books, and gifts.
Joshua Tree Bottle Shop
Thoughtfully selected and tasted alohol and non-alcohol bottle shop. They have the cutest $5 sake juice boxes, and so much more. You won’t regret checking it out.
Desierto Alto
A cute lil’ specialty bodega, like the one you’d find in Brooklyn. They’ve got wine, and cheese, dry goods, and fridges full of all sorts of goodies, including gluten-free and vegan items.
Things to Do
Joshua Tree National Park
One of my favorite National Parks! Located around the corner from downtown Joshua Tree, it’s larger than the state of Rhode Island (we all forget how big California is) and there are hiking, camping, and rock climbing options for days. Bring plenty of water, salty snacks, and adventure responsibly.
>>>> Black Rock Canyon (dog-friendly)
Technically part of Joshua Tree, but located in Yucca Valley. This is one of my favorite places to hike because it’s not super well-known or crowded, and it’s absolutely gorgeous + pup friendly.
Glamp with CampJT - They set up camp, and clean up everything so that you have a seamless experience!
Integratron
This is one of the coolest things to do in Joshua Tree, because there is no other place in the world quite like it… On second thought, that sounds like most of Joshua Tree. I won’t delve too much into the history, other than to say, it was created by George Van Tessel, after communicating with aliens, and it’s acoustically perfect. It also set on an energy vortex, and is run by three sisters (girl power!). They now offer these really cool sound bath sessions inside of it. Back in the day, you could just show up, but you now have to reserve a space ahead of time. You won’t regret it.
Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum
“A trip” is the only true way to describe this place. Open everyday, from dawn to dusk and free to the public (don’t forget to donate), this outdoor museum is full of some fantastic art installations by the famous, Noah Purifoy.
Desert Christ Park
Another outdoor museum, home to 40 white sculptures depicting Christ’s life and teachings. It’s free of charge, open everyday, from dawn to dusk, and it’s… definitely worth a visit. Don’t forget to donate!
Wonder Valley Hot Springs
Hot springs in the desert? Oh, yeahhhhh! These hot springs are so special, and are worth the 30 minute drive from downtown Joshua Tree.
Wonder Valley Hot Springs
Wonder Valley Hot Springs has various sized Bali granite stone tubs, and you can choose to soak up to two hours all day, any day (we highly recommend a sunset soak). The tubs are filled on demand, and the thermal water temperature is set to whatever level of heat you desire, between 90-105 degrees Fahrenheit. And don’t get me started on the views from the surrounding mountains and valley! Each tub area has its own bathroom and shower. Bonus? The owner is Doug Evans, author of The Sprout Book. *Hosted
Crochet Museum / Art Queen
The first, and only… Full of crocheted everything, and curated by Bunny, the crocheted Alligator. Need I say more? Just go. They also have a shop with the CUTEST and COOLEST goods (this is where I buy most of my presents) and are next door to the Sun Alley Shops.
Downtown Pioneertown
Pioneertown is a must-see while in Joshua Tree. Founded in 1946, as both an Old West movie set and an unincorporated town by Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. More than 50 films and tv shows have been filmed here, and it has a great little downtown, full of food, shops, a bowling alley, motel, a couple of jails, Pappy and Harriets (a famous music venue + bbq spot), and a post office.
Pet Pioneertown’s Pygora Goats
While in Pioneertown, visit Joanne’s Simple Soap (seriously, great soap + she sells hand-knit items) and her and Bill’s Pygora Goat. Have you ever seen anything cuter?
Hike Desert View Conservation Area aka Section 6 (outside of Joshua Tree NP/Free to access)
This is essentially the free version of the national park, except the county oversees it. It’s one of my fav nearby places to hike and serves as a conservation area for our amazing desert tortoises. This is a local’s spot, and you’ll also see plenty of bikers and rock climbers + dogs are allowed!
The Wildlands Conservancy Hikes (all dog-friendly):
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve - The closest in the area, and just stunning. I love the Olsen Ruins loop trail because you walk along a creek/rive the entire time. In the colder months, you may even see snow.
Mission Creek Preserve - This one of my fav early spring trails because it’s filled with blooming flowers, and also gifts you with a stream to place your weary feet in to cool off in.
Whitewater Preserve - One of the most spectacular lower desert trails. My favorite part is that there is a river you can hangout in even on the hottest of days, and you’ll often see mountain goats grazing the land.
Hike Coyote Hole (outside of Joshua Tree NP/Free to access)
Located within walking distance of my home! This short, but worthwhile hike leads you to a petroglyph paradise, a native American sacred space. + dogs are allowed!
Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum
While downtown, visit the world’s first and only all-in-one beauty salon and museum. They’ve even got a cute shop, and if you’re lucky, you’ll meet the owner (there’s a documentary about him) and get a souvenir comb. I actually get my hair done here sometimes and it’s so fun.
Untamed Yoga (At Home Yoga)
While in town, join in on an outdoor yoga class. This studio is rooted in community, health, and social justice. You won’t regret joining a class on, or offline. Plus, a percentage is donated to a non-profit each season.
Cedar and Sage Wellness Studio
Located in downtown Yucca Valley, this beautiful wellness studio offers classes from yoga to soundbath, to meditation (say hi to my friend, Brock if he is teaching). Feel free to drop in for a class, or two, or stay awhile.
Giant Rock
The energy vortexes of Joshua Tree may not be as renowned as say, Sedona, but they are there. And this is definitely one location to experience it. This boulder has its name because its seven stories high and covers over 6,000 square feet. Some say it’s the largest free-standing boulder in the world. It’s served as a Native American spiritual site for thousands of years.
Joshua Tree Retreat Center (Institute of Mentalphysics)
This center hosts some great wellness-based programs, retreats, and festivals. You can also stay here for the night! Be sure to check out their calendar for upcoming events. Don’t forget to eat at their cafe, and walk around the grounds.
Get a Facial at The Pointed Pearl Skincare
There’s nothing like pampering yourself when you’re out of town. Megan offers all types of facials and services. All that will leave you feeling like you’re truly on vacation.
Desert Chrome Dance
Staying in town for a minute, or two? We now have a beautiful pole dancing studio in Yucca Valley. I’m kind of obsessed.
Midnight Oil Gallery (closed)
View beautiful featured art in Yucca Valley, run by Bonnie Brookes and gorgeous hand poking tattoo artist, Taylor Elyse Compton. And how lovely are these pieces by Anastasia Digiallonardo (will someone plz buy me one?)? Don’t worry, there is a mural on the outdoor wall for you to take plenty of pretty pics with.
HWY 62 Art Tours
Depending on the day, or the month, or just luck, you might be able to go on a tour of some great art in the desert hosted by HWY 62. Either way, visit their website to see if there are any exhibits for you to check out while you’re in town.
Meditate at the Dhamma Vaddhana Vipassana Meditation Center
Down the street, in Twentynine Palms, you can complete an amazing 10-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat that’s donation-based. It personally changed my life.
Shopping (Joshua Tree)
Hope you weren’t saving for a rainy day, because those don’t happen too often here….
Ricochet Vintage Wears
Right in downtown, it’s exactly what you would expect and want from a vintage store in Joshua Tree. It’s rare I leave empty handed.
The Mincing Mockingbird
This adorable downtown store and art gallery are full of quirky gifts, home decor, art supplies, art collections, and shows. Much of their artwork in the back is created by local artists and is a lot of fun to check out.
Grateful Desert Herb Shoppe and EcoMarket
Located Downtown, this cute shop is filled with small-batched, sustainable, hand-crafted herbal, and natural health products. The founder is an RN and herbalist who does herbal consults. And they ship!
Industry of All Nations
You may know them for being in most of the larger US cities, or from shopping online. This beautiful sustainable brand has parked an Undyedddd shop in Joshua Tree. I love it here. Say hi if my fiend Yaz is working. She’s the best.
Joshua Tree Street Market
Just across the street from the farmer’s market, this is open around the same time, and has delicious food, art, handmade good, and vintage items to shop and enjoy.
Brewja Elixir Lounge and Shop
Where your adaptogenic dreams come true… An experiential tea elixir bar and store that sells hemp, fungi, exotic herbs, teas, and lifestyle goods.
Shopping (Yucca Valley + Pioneertown)
Cactusmart
I don’t leave Yuca Valley without buying something from Cactusmart. They have every type of succulent and cactus you can possibly imagine. Plus, their adorable cats and hens chill amongst the greens while you shop.
ZZIEE Ceramics
A gorgeous ceramic store, owned by a local artist, You will officially have the perfect home for that succulent you bought at Cactusmart! They even host classes throughout the week (cue heart eyes).
Hoof & The Horn
A beautiful store, packed full of both vintage and new finds. You can buy anything you may need here for your Joshua Tree photoshoot. Hungry? Don’t worry, it’s next door to Frontier Cafe!
The End Yucca Valley
A vintage oasis, filled with delicious style finds, both old and new. This just may be the end of your saved cash! Not able to visit soon? No worries, they have a great online store.
Desert’s Edge
This red-barn-turned vintage shop has some great DIY creations, like world globe lamps and unique home decor, art, and clothing. All vintage, ofc. Also love when my fav local vintage brand hosts pop-ups there, @tangerine.taurus.
Sky Village Flea Market
One of my favorite flea markets, ever. You never know what you’re going to find there, including Bob’s Crystal CAee being open. They have everything from plants, to clothes, furniture, a cafe, art, and seriously, anything you didn’t know you needed. Open every weekend from 6/7 AM- 2 PM.
Desert Omen
A slow-fashion dream in Yucca Valley! This store is full of gorgeous vintage and handmade, and upcycled contemporary clothing, accessories, and more.
Acme 5 Yucca Valley
If and when we decide to get a vacation home in Joshua Tree, this is where I will be doing all of the furniture shopping (or, at least window shopping!). Almost everything is handcrafted locally, or abroad, and is just gorgeous. I loved the chairs, pillows, and plants they had outside. I was also swooning over their jewelry. This place is cute, y’all.
Rocks and Wine Shop
Yucca’s cutest store specializes in natural wines, fine goods, cold beers, and crystals (duh). They also have the cutest gifts, like Baggu items, artwork, rugs, frisbees, ceramics, candles, incense, and much more. You’ll have to just check it out yourself. Plus, they sell the Begin Within Journal there!
Hoodoo Record Store
The local record store we all need! Aside from new and used vinyl, they also have graphic novels and comic books, tiki mugs, t-shirts, and other oddities.
Geode and Gypsum
A beautiful new furniture and lifestyle store in Yucca Valley that also has interior design services.
The Mystic Parlor -No longer open ***** However, Evelyn Zuel, the owner, still conducts in-person and video readings. She’s amazing.
The witch-y store you’ve been dreaming of finding. Full of decks, books, and ritual tools. The owners are both astrologers and tarot card readers and offer various types of readings and services you can book in-person or online.
Nitty Gritty Antiques
Hand-picked and well-priced vintage and antique clothes, choose, accessories, furniture, collectibles, and more!
Moon Wind Trading Company (Flamingo Heights/Landers)
This unexpected shop is like a desert oasis when you come up to it. It’s full of vintage and new clothing, jewelry, beauty and wellness items, and accessories. Many items are local. It’s also an event place. Shop til’ you drop, then grab some coffee next door.
Pioneer General Store
This little shop has all of the vintage jeans and cowboy boots you’ll ever need. They’ve also got accessories, knives, books and zines, textiles, blankets, and apothecary.
Mercado Mojave
A group of lovely and local vendors hangs out in Pioneertown each Saturday and Sunday to sling you the best of the best of vintage, homemade, new, and old. Definitely worth checking out.
Xeba Botanica
Same creators as Mercao Mojave, and also in Pioneertown. This town. This is an all-organic, vegan, and plastic-free, handmade personal care brand. I love their SPF cream.
TBG-Homegrown
Adorable store, full of house plants, cacti, succulents, and local goods, including but not limited to new and vintage pottery and other home decor, and accessories. The owner is super sweet, and also has a floral business aka The Blooming Gypsy (if you ever need the hookup for your future desert wedding).
SHOP on the MESA (No longer open)
Ah, another cute spot! We got to visit for a pop-up, and ended up leaving with the cutest JT inspired print shirts. I love that they sell gorgeous sustainable clothing and shoes, as well as furniture (including beautiful Moroccan rugs) and dry goods, like animal medicine cards. Can’t wait to visit? I don’t blame you. Luckily they have a website for you to get your fix!
Elements on 62 (no longer open)
A fun store full of art, furniture (new and old), decor, vintage, and boutique finds. The owners are super sweet, which makes the shopping experience even better.
Evening Entertainment
Pappy and Harriets Saloon, in Pioneertown
This saloon is located in historical Pioneertown (an Old West movie set, turned cute town). It has brought in some notable names, such as Paul McCartney, Vampire Weekend, Spiritualized, Lorde, Arctic Monkeys, and many more. Located essentially ‘in the middle of nowhere,’ you never know who you will see or run into while there. If you happen to be day-drinking there, be sure to walk on over and check out downtown Pioneertown, and the General Store there, offering “handpicked desert provisions.”
Yucca Bowl
Ready to get super wild? Go bowling. Best spot in town, after…. (see below)
Pioneer Bowl
A vintage 6 lane bowling alley in Pioneer Town! Need I say more? Be sure to reserve ahead.
Smith’s Ranch Drive-in Movie Theatre
You should definitely have a drive-in movie experience on your bucket list, and cross it off, over and over again, when you watch a movie here.
We hope you enjoy this high desert gem, and as always, Buen Camino!
P.S. If you’re lucky, you may get to experience the park covered in snow in the winter. Amazing, yeah?!
