Common Minerals & Rocks of Joshua Tree Nat'l Park

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the geological wonders of Joshua Tree National Park! We will begin our quest by delving into the fundamentals of geology, unraveling the mysteries of tectonic plate boundaries and igneous rock formations. But that's just the beginning – brace yourself for an immersive experience as we venture into the heart of the park's iconic landscape. We will traverse the breathtaking Park Boulevard, uncovering the treasures hidden within the famous outcrops. Our expert guide will lead you through the rugged terrain, revealing the stories etched in the textures and compositions of these geological wonders. Don't miss out on this electrifying opportunity to not only identify rocks but to live and breathe the enchanting allure of Joshua Tree National Park. Get ready for a day of discovery, where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary against the backdrop of this awe-inspiring landscape!

ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE

We have designed this event to be accessible to most. Please contact us if you have questions about your ability to participate desertintitute@joshuatree.org

PROGRAM AGENDA

We’ll meet at Park Headquarters parking lot at 10:00 AM and head over to the Rattlesnake Room for a safety orientation and lecture/discussion. Around 11am we’ll depart and caravan into Joshua Tree National Park to explore rocks and landscapes. At around 1pm we will have lunch (please bring your own lunch/snacks/drink) and resume field exploring at 2pm ending the class by 3pm near the West Entrance in Joshua Tree. Please note: There is no cell service in the park! Please allow ample time to arrive at the meeting location; park entrances may be very busy on weekends (see FAQs). Please make sure you check weather conditions and dress accordingly.

Get to know your instructor:

Alessandro Grippo has done research and taught geology, oceanography, stratigraphy, environmental geology and field classes at Santa Monica College and several California State University campuses. Alessandro has a keen interest for the geology of the American southwest and loves being out there exploring, learning, and sharing his passion for Earth and its history. Alessandro also worked in the oil industry between his M.S. and his Ph.D., was a fellow faculty member at NASA-JPL for one year, and brought his students from Catalina Island to Nevada, from the Salton Sea to northern California. His interests and study, together with his passion for photography took him throughout Europe and the Americas looking for geological features

What's included?

• First aid and emergency supplies for the group

What's Not included?

• Admission to Joshua Tree National Park
• Meals, Lodging, or Transportation

What to Bring:

The essentials for all field courses:

• Water, between 3 and 4 liters per person for a full day outing
• Food and snacks, easily packed and eaten in the field (please leave no trace)
• Close-toed athletic shoes or hiking boots; no sandals, not even hiking sandals!
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen; light-colored long-sleeved shirts are recommended and very effective on hot days
• Warm layers for cooler mornings/evenings (it can be surprisingly cold!)
• Backpack to carry food, water, and any personal items you need for the day

Required for this course:

• 7 desert essentials
• Trekking poles
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Read: Trent & Hazlett , Joshua Tree National Park Geology , available at visitor centers or online at joshuatree.org/store

Photo credit: NPS/Kurt Moses