Joshua Tree National Park roads are narrow and winding, with soft, sandy shoulders.
Drive carefully and obey posted speed limits. Many wild animals, including the threatened desert tortoise, have been killed by speeding cars. If you stop to view wildlife or scenery, please use pullouts or parking lots. Do not stop in the travel lane—it could cause an accident. Off-road driving is prohibited.
The desert environment is more fragile than it may look. Off-road driving creates ruts, upsets delicate drainage patterns, compacts the soil, and leaves visible scars for years. Crushed and uprooted plants may not recover. Always travel with extra water in your vehicle. If you experience car trouble, stay with your vehicle.
