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Natural garden · Twentynine Palms, California
Cholla Cactus Garden
Natural area in Joshua Tree, at the transition between the Mojave and Colorado deserts, with thousands of cholla cacti with pale spines, crossed by a short trail of about 400 meters.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cholla Cactus Garden
The Cholla Cactus Garden is in the Pinto Basin, in the lower part of Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave Desert gives way to the Colorado Desert. There grows a dense, natural concentration of teddy‑bear cholla, a cactus of short, jointed arms covered in fine pale spines that from a distance look like plush.
A flat trail of about 400 meters, partly boardwalked, runs through the middle of the cacti, with panels about the plants and the animals that live among them, such as birds that nest in the spiny branches.
In late afternoon and early morning, the low light passes through the spines and makes the cacti glow—the most photographed time of day at the site.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
At sunrise or sunset, when the low light illuminates the spines. In summer, avoid midday.
How to get there
It is on Pinto Basin Road, inside the park, about 30 km south of the Twentynine Palms north entrance. Vehicle entrance fees apply to the park.
Tip
Do not touch the cacti: the branches detach easily and stick to skin and clothing. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a comb to remove spines.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cholla Cactus Garden
What is the Cholla Cactus Garden?
A natural area with thousands of cholla cacti in Joshua Tree, crossed by a short trail.
Is the cholla cactus dangerous?
The branches detach easily and the spines stick to skin and clothing. Do not touch the cacti and wear closed-toe shoes.
When to visit the Cholla Cactus Garden?
Early in the morning or late afternoon, with the low sun behind the cacti.