I visited Joshua Tree Nat’l Park last week for the first time. With 794,000 acres of “moonscape,” the park sits on the flyway to and from Los Angeles. Only 140 miles separate the two. The geography beckons hikers, rock climbers, birdwatchers, photographers, stargazers, and of course, the curious. The Mojave Desert covers the western half with elevations above 3,000 feet. Where mega boulders stand atop one another. Where the slow-growing Joshua tree lives into old age. Where rapellers get an adrenalin rush. And, where travelers like me are wowed by the vistas.
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that is beautiful 🙂
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You probably know that the evergreen or fir tree is the traditional “Christmas” tree in the U.S. People also decorate the branches, put a star or something else on the apex, and the presents are placed under the tree.
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OK. That must be the reason it is unheard of here in Australia. We have a Jesse tree at Christmas –
The tradition of the Jesse Tree comes to us from Europe. The “tree” is usually a branch or sapling; it may be a real tree or a wall hanging, which is decorated with various symbols that remind us of the purpose and promises of God from Creation to the Birth of Jesus Christ.
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Here is an explanation of the name. “The name Joshua tree was given by a group of Mormon settlers who crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-19th century. The tree’s unique shape reminded them of a Biblical story in which Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in prayer.” The “tree” has been assigned to the yucca family.
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Can you tell me why it is called the Joshua tree?
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Yes, Joshua Tree is a photogenic place. I appreciate your comments and your beautiful images.
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Beautiful photos. Have always wanted to photograph this park but every time we are near, it’s 100 degrees there!
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beautiful expression
of Joshua’s beautiful trees 🙂
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