49 Palms Oasis Reopens for Visitors

Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, CA – Park officials announced that the popular 49 Palms Oasis has been reopened for park visitors. Park biologists state that cooler temperatures, additional forage and the impact of recent rain activity in the area, create conditions favorable for reopening the oasis, which has been closed since the end of June. Superintendent David Smith said, "We are always hesitant to close any area in the park, however when certain factors warrant, it becomes necessary to preserve the flora and fauna we are charged with protecting".

Rangers advise hikers to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and appropriate clothing and headgear. Also the public is reminded that dogs are not allowed on trails in the park and are particularly vulnerable to desert heat. You are invited to come out and Find Your Park.

Fun hike. Not a particularly long one, but worthwhile nontheless. Good time to visit Joshua Tree is Feb-March-ish. When it's not quite as hot. If you're lucky, you'll come across one of these:

Agreed, it's a nice hike and an interesting area.


http://yosemitephotos.net/main.php/v/trails/ryan/sh-dsc_2798.jpg.html