- Group Size 8 People Maximum
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Travel Style
Communities Up Close
We've got your back.
When you join one of our trips, we want you to have peace of mind. In response to COVID-19, we’ve:
- Implemented expansive new safety protocols
- Reduced trip deposits to just $100
- Made it easier than ever to reschedule your trip
Artists and creators have long sought refuge, clarity, change, or perhaps simply broader horizons here in the Joshua Tree region. Join us as we traverse the legendary landscape that’s supported countless creative endeavors—visiting innovative and experimental art installations, glimpsing mysteriously marked rocks, and experiencing the magic of the desert along the way.
- An outdoor sculpture museum
- An artist who lives an experiment
- Enigmatic rock poetry
Itinerary
Day 1: Alternative Ways of Seeing and Being
We’ll meet up at a well-known art residency site, where we'll get a glimpse of the adventures to come over a catered lunch. Then we’ll head out to visit artist Andrea Zittel’s ongoing experiment in living, where she examines the day-to-day of life and questions what gives it meaning. From there, we’ll soak (aurally) in a rejuvenating sound bath and then check in at our vintage Sunlight Ranch accommodations, where the owner will talk to us about the ranch's approach to permaculture and being on and with the land. After freshening up, we’ll head to a beloved local haunt for dinner and drinks. We'll cap the evening with a stargazing party at the Joshua Tree Astronomy Arts Theater.
Sunlight Ranch, Joshua Tree, CA
Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Outdoor Art and the Great Outdoors
Our first stop today is the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum, a sprawling, ten-acre art-scape where the iconic visual artist and sculptor resided and created assemblage pieces for the final 15 years of his life. From there, we'll head to Joshua Tree National Park and hike out to Samuelson’s Rocks, a cluster of boulders covered in mysterious inscriptions of philosophical musings. After a picnic lunch, you'll have some free time to hike around the park or visit the galleries and shops in town. We’ll head back to Sunlight Ranch to rest up before a festive dinner at the world-famous Pappy and Harriets, where we'll enjoy the music, vibes, and good company together.
Sunlight Ranch, Joshua Tree, CA
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Farewell & Departure
We'll enjoy a final breakfast together before heading off to the next adventure.
Trip Leader
We'll be staying at Sunlight Ranch, a solar-powered, permaculture airstream trailer community. Our accommodations will be in fully loaded vintage trailers with views of Joshua Tree National Park and the wide-open desert.
The cost of this trip is $860, based on double occupancy.
Our trip begins in the afternoon on Day 1. We recommend you arrive in Joshua Tree by 12 p.m. so you can settle into your accommodations before meeting our guide and group. Our trip concludes in the morning on Day 3. If leaving Joshua Tree directly after our trip, feel free to leave any time before checkout at 11 a.m.
You’re in good company. Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
Have your own room, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $150. After booking your trip, please request a private room when you fill out your traveler information form and we’ll add the charge to your final balance.
Travelers should feel comfortable hiking up to three miles in the National Park, climbing stairs, and remaining on their feet for long periods of time.
- All meals described in the itinerary.
- An experienced local guide to accompany you throughout the trip.
- Accommodation throughout the trip in a characterful and comfortable airstream trailer camp.
- Admission to all proposed activities, locations, and events.
- A great group of fellow Atlas Obscura fans, excited to explore all that the SoCal desert region has to offer!
- Special access to unique places, hidden sites, and extraordinary experiences.
- 24/7 emergency assistance during your trip, provided by Global Rescue
- Transportation to, from, and around Joshua Tree. Transportation during the trip will be by foot and via your own vehicles.
- Travel insurance (recommended).
- Additional meals and drinks outside of Atlas Obscura offerings, including most alcoholic beverages.
Trip FAQ
What will the weather be like?
Desert weather is full of contrasts. Winter temperatures can hit freezing at night with highs of 75° F, and spring highs can reach into the 90s during the day.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated, but please let us know if you have any severe allergies or prescribed dietary restrictions.
What positive impact will I have by taking this trip?
Your participation in this trip helps support artists who are working on major projects and preserves projects that have already been completed. You'll also be supporting the conservation of land in the Mojave's fragile desert ecosystem. You can increase your impact by sharing the stories of the artists and projects you encounter, and, if you wish, purchasing art during the trip.
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