Why Mid-Summer Might Be the Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree

Summer might not sound like the ideal time to visit the desert. The temps are high, the sun is relentless, and everyone tells you to wait for fall. But I’m here to let you in on a little secret: mid-July through mid-August is actually one of the most magical times to be in Joshua Tree. And is has everything to do with the night sky.

Every summer, the starts put on a show…literally. The Perseid meteor shower lights up the sky with one of the most dazzling celestial shows you’ll ever see. And Joshua Tree? It’s got a front-row seat. On peak nights, you can see dozens of bright, fast-moving meteors every hour. Think glowing streaks of light cutting across the sky every few minutes. Its the kind of thing that takes your breath away. For my fellow ACOTAR girlies, think Starfall, but real.

Joshua Tree is famous for its dark skies all year around, but during the Perseids, it’s on a whole other level. The night sky glows with streaks of light while the stillness of the desert wraps around you. It feels enchanted and surreal.

The best way to take it all in? Find a place with an outdoor setup, like a daybed, cozy deck or lounge chairs. Bring out a blanket, maybe a glass of wine, and settle in. There’s something about lying under the wide-open sky, with nothing but the quiet, while the stars put on a show above you. No light pollution. No distractions. Just you and the stars.

Have I convinced you yet?