Desert Canvas: Art of Joshua Tree and the Mojave
- 8 People Maximum
- Moderate Activity Level
- Communities Up Close
Artists, philosophers, and people from all walks of life have sought refuge, clarity, change, or perhaps simply broader horizons here in the Joshua Tree region. Together, we’ll traverse the legendary landscape that’s supported creative endeavors both contemporary and historical—visiting colorful man-made mountains, 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: Life & Art in the High Desert
After arriving at Sunlight Ranch, we’ll head out into the High Desert. Our first stop 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. After lunch at an artists’ residency, we’ll visit artist Andrea Zittel’s ongoing experiment in living, where she examines the day-to-day of life and questions what gives it meaning. In the evening, we’ll visit The Integratron before heading to a beloved local haunt for dinner and drinks.
Sunlight Ranch, Joshua Tree, CA
Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Colorful Mountains & Accidental Seas
We’ll grab a hearty breakfast at Sunlight Ranch, then head to Joshua Tree National Park for some free exploration. We’ll hike out to Samuelson’s Rocks, a cluster of boulders covered in mysterious inscriptions of philosophical musings. After spending the afternoon in the desert, we’ll head back to our accommodations to clean up before a festive farewell dinner together and once the sun has set, we'll be joined by an expert in astronomy, for a star party at Sunlight Ranch.
Sunlight Ranch, Joshua Tree, CA
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Farewell & Departure
Trip Leader
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 check out 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. We have two options for you:
Shared Room: You’ll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Private Room: Have your own room, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $150. After booking your trip, please request a single room when you fill out your traveler information form and we’ll send a separate invoice for the cost.
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.
- Two breakfasts, one lunch, and two dinners.
- An experienced local guide to accompany you throughout the trip.
- Accommodations 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!
- Transportation to and from Sunlight Ranch
- 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 90’s 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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