Bike rentals in JTNP?
We will be in JTNP in mid-February, and I thought it would be cool to take a break from our usual activity of hiking and rent some bikes to explore parts of the park.
Is this a good idea? Are there bike rental places you can recommend? (I googled this but I don't know how reputable some of the places are.). We would also need to rent close enough to the trails so that we wouldn't have to drive our bikes somewhere -- I don't think our rental car will be able to carry bikes.
Alternatively, we will be seeing Death Valley as well, so if you think it's more exciting to rent a bike there, we could consider that.
Renting bikes in Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP) can be a fun way to explore, especially if you want a change from hiking. However, there are a few important considerations. JTNP is a desert park with some long stretches between attractions, and most roads are paved but can get busy with cars. Mountain biking is possible on some designated trails, but many trails are sandy or rocky, which can be challenging for casual riders.
For bike rentals, your best bet is to rent in the nearby towns like Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley. This way, you can start cycling close to areas suitable for biking without needing to transport bikes far into the park. Here are some options:
- Joshua Tree Bicycle Rental: Located in Joshua Tree town, they offer a range of bikes including road bikes and cruisers, and provide helmets and locks.
- Palm Springs Rentals: Some rental shops in Palm Springs or nearby towns offer e-bikes which can make climbing desert hills easier if you are visiting the northern or western parts of the park.
- Joshua Tree Adventure Rentals: They offer both mountain bikes and road bikes, and can advise on routes suitable for different skill levels.
Recommended biking routes in JTNP:
- Hidden Valley Loop: A relatively short, mostly flat loop suitable for casual biking and offering scenic views of rock formations.
- Park Boulevard: A paved route that runs through the park connecting main visitor areas, ideal for road or hybrid bikes.
- Oasis of Mara (Twentynine Palms): Short trails around the oasis are easy to bike and give a taste of desert flora.
Regarding Death Valley, biking there is less common due to extreme heat, long distances, and limited shaded areas. Mid-February is cooler, which makes it safer, but the terrain can be harsher and services sparse. Joshua Tree is generally better for a relaxed bike experience within a national park setting.
In summary, renting a bike in Joshua Tree is doable and can be enjoyable if you plan routes carefully and choose a rental near the park entrances. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and plan for shorter rides unless you are experienced desert cyclists.
