California’s Joshua Tree National Park, named for the region’s signature succulent, is incredibly popular, bringing in 3 million visitors each year to its scenic trails and lush desert springs. But it’s not the only place to see the spiky desert plant. The world’s largest Joshua tree forest is actually in Nevada, and even more Joshua trees await on the western end of the Mojave Desert in Saddleback Butte State Park. This high-desert refuge with wildflower-framed trails is ideal for hiking and horseback riding.
The park, located 15 miles east of Lancaster, California, was established in 1960 to conserve the area’s Joshua tree woodland and desert flora. The main attraction is Saddleback Butte, a 3,651-foot granite mountain. The park’s most popular trails lead up to its peak. One starts at the day-use area ($6 per vehicle), and follows Little Butte Trail for 2.5 miles, while the Saddleback Butte Peak Trail originates at the campground’s trailhead parking lot. The two trails merge at the foot of the mountain, from which point it’s a steep uphill climb to the summit on sandy, rocky terrain. The reward is a sweeping panoramic view over Antelope Valley and the desert below.
Many visitors approach the hike as a 3- to 4-mile loop, starting up on one trail and heading back on the other. There’s little shade in summer, so it’s best to head out early in the day if you’re visiting between June and September. Keep in mind that summer temperatures here can reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Explore the trails of Saddleback Butte State Park
A woman rides a horse in California’s Mojave Desert – Actionsportsnc/Getty Images
Saddleback Butte State Park is, fittingly, a treat to explore on horseback. The park’s equestrian trails ($3 per horse and $6 per trailer) are scenic and beginner-friendly, and local outfitters like SoCal Horse Adventures sometimes offer trail rides or lessons (from $120) in the park. Whether you’re walking or riding, keep your eyes open for golden eagles, woodpeckers, ravens, and owls along the trails. The best time to visit Saddleback Butte is from February to May, when spring wildflowers enliven the park’s sunny trails.
Though the day-use picnic area and visitor center are open daily (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., respectively), one of the park’s highlights — stargazing beneath the wonderfully dark desert sky — is reserved only for overnight guests staying at the campground. Sites cost $20 per night and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site features a grill, picnic table, and fire ring, and guests have access to restrooms (but not showers).
Saddleback Butte State Park isn’t well served by public transportation, so it’s best to arrive by car. Pick up picnic supplies at Saddleback Market, just a short drive south of the park’s entrance. The park is just under 2 hours northeast of Los Angeles. And if you love the colorful wildflower displays at Saddleback Butte, check out Northern California’s largest state park, a hidden gem known for its wildflowers, before you leave the state.
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Read the original article on Islands.