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Red Rocks-Joshua Trip Climbing Trip
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items Planning the perfect climbing trip? Look no further, especially if you'd like to have some nice off days and still want civilized comforts. I'm an indoor cat who enjoys the outdoors so here is my blend of both worlds. A Red Rocks/Joshua Tree bouldering (and also ropes!) trip is perfect. Just three hours away from each other, you can maximize your time from 4-7 days, enjoying what both VERY DIFFERENT areas have to offer! Enjoy! And remember, don't climb at either s... This can severely damage not just the rock, but also you! Let's preserve our outdoor recreational spaces.
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Itinerary
Itinerary
Enjoy a full itinerary for your Red Rocks-Joshua Tree Climbing Trip! Feel free to modify as needed depending on your length of stay!
The best option if you don't live neither either location. It's better to fly into this airport than Palm Springs or anywhere in California. Cheaper and more options, as well!
Fly into Las Vegas
Grab a rental car in Las Vegas. For freedom to move around, this is absolutely necessary. I recommend just getting one at the airport, as that is most convenient and will get you on the road faster, as well!
Get a Rental Car
It takes about 3 hours (not accounting for Las Vegas traffic) to get to Joshua Tree. It's a beautiful, scenic drive that will probably leave you wondering, “Am I going the right way?” Yes, you are. Download your map to your destination and your playl... I recommend driving in the day, always! You'll start to see “civilization” when you get to 29 Palms.
Drive to Joshua Tree
On the way, you should definitely check out this stand alone art installation! Really cool, really random, and a great photo opportunity and time to stretch your legs before the rest of the long stretch.
Cute Stop: Seven Magic Mountains
On our first trip we opted to stay at an AirBnB just 10 minutes from Joshua Tree. On the same road we saw this RV camp from Hilton and are DEF staying there next time. Whatever you pick, I recommend staying near the West Entrance. There are a lot of options and if money isn't much of a factor, this is where I'd stay (and will when we go back).
AutoCamp Joshua Tree - Hilton
Depending on your trip, I'd allow for 2-3 days of bouldering in Joshua Tree. You'll be doing a lot of scrambling and sight seeing anyway and try to conserve your skin!
Joshua Tree Bouldering
Some people like the digital route, but I love guides! They're just more practical and it's my experience. I don't have to worry about reception or battery life. This is a great guide.
Joshua Tree Bouldering Guide
When you get there, do a grocery store run. There are not a ton of food options and none at night or in the park. Bring lots of snacks for while you're out and double the amount of water you think you'll need. There are absolutely NO water stations so please be safe and keep a ton of water in your car! Safety first.
Grocery Store Run
You'll be tired but you absolutely must explore at night. Away from light pollution and in the desert, it's breath taking, unmatched, and a unique experience.
Stargazing
Pack up and head back to Las Vegas, your end to the trip. Plan to stay 2-3 days, of course, depending on your total travel time.
Head back to Las Vegas
There are SO many options in Vegas. You can choose an airbnb close to Red Rock Canyon (that's what we did) or, you can stay closer to the strip if you also want to enjoy the nightlife (not our vibe but hey, do you!)
Las Vegas Lodging
It used to be extremely difficult to get this bouldering guide. I (think) it's much more accessible now. Don't want to purchase it? You might be able to luck out and get a rental copy at one of the Vegas climbing gyms. They only have a few copies and depending on the season, may not be available.
Southern Nevada Bouldering III
Of course there's tons of bouldering but we spent a day and a half in the Kraft area, which I loved. Who doesn't love bacon rocks?! There is a ton to explore and a great loop you can drive on with more boulders to explore, too.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Sorry not sorry for all caps. DO NOT CLIMB ON WET ROCK. To preserve, to keep yourself safe…just don't do it, not even a little. Yes, it sucks to get your plans derailed but you can make new plans.
DON'T CLIMB WHEN RAINING OR WET
Being from Hawaii and living in Nashville now for almost a decade, I miss GREAT food options. We got to experience some really amazing food so branch out and check out some great spots!
Vegas Food!
Reflect on your (hopefully) amazing trip and start planning your next visit! I'm sure there are projects or more areas you want to check out. Hope you had a great time and made some great memories!
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