Joshua Tree in Southern California is straight-up magic, a gnarly expanse of desert dotted with iconic, twisted namesake trees that might have just walked off a Dr. Seuss book cover. Sunrises and sunsets are mind-blowing color explosions. Rock formations are abstract sculptures, an open-air gallery curated by Mother Earth. As for the night sky, it’s as if someone took a handful of glitter and threw it across the blackest canvas. I always feel infinitesimally small and profoundly connected all at once.

Joshua Tree (about 2.5 hours from LA, depending on traffic, 45 minutes from Palm Springs, and less than 4 hours from Death Valley) is its gateway town with visitor services. And the desert communities surrounding it offer totally worthy and quirky diversions.

As for rugged and resilient Park wildlife: I’ve seen coyotes, desert tortoises, and roadrunners. As for experiences and activities, I’ve done them all (and you should too): hiking, rock climbing, snapping surreal pics for IG, walking among cholla, camping, and simply driving around. Bottom line? Joshua Tree is the ultimate detox from the digital world. Plug into the earth’s own energy, pack a reusable water bottle, lace up your hiking boots, and go off the grid. It’s a trip. — Kim Grant