Desert Ecology Bike Tour

Explore the desert’s unique ecology, geology, and human history using one of the best ways to experience Joshua Tree National Park — cycling! This semi-loop ride on dirt roads in the picturesque Queen Valley will allow ample opportunity to view the scenery as well as learn about the Mojave Desert.

As the group rides, field ecologist Mike Medina will interpret the surrounding landscape, highlighting desert plant communities, geological features, and the subtle signs of wildlife activity that are often missed from vehicles. The pace is relaxed and designed to allow frequent stops for discussion, photography, and appreciation of the environment.

• The class will meet at the Wall Street Mill parking area.

• The tour is suitable for intermediate to experienced cyclists ages 16 and older who are comfortable with off-road biking. 

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not included in the cost of enrollment. Please purchase your park pass online ahead of time on the NPS website.

• No meals or equipment are provided. Participants must supply their own bikes (additional information in the equipment list).

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation.

This class is challenging to strenuous. The route is approximately 11 miles on mostly unpaved roads that include rocks, sand, hard pack, and washboard sections. A short section will be on Park Boulevard. The ride begins at an elevation of 4,250 feet and has a total elevation gain of 410 feet. There are a few gradual inclines.

Participants spend several hours outdoors in the elements. Please contact Desert Institute by email at desertinstitute@joshuatree.org if you have questions about your ability to participate.

Required Items:

• Bike — Multi-speed gravel, mountain, or fat-tire bikes with a minimum of 1.5-in. (38 mm) knobby tires

  • Pedal-assist ebikes may be used, but moped-style ebikes with throttles are not permitted

  • Bikes can be rented through High Desert Ebike or JT Ebikes

  • Ebikes should be fully charged prior to arriving at the meeting location

• Water (3 - 4 liters per person)

• Appropriate cycling attire, including layers for variable desert temperatures. High-visibility clothing (i.e., jersey, windbreaker, jacket) is recommended 

• Helmet

• Food and snacks

• Closed-toe athletic shoes

• Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended

• Bike repair kit and gloves (optional)

Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout. 

Meet Your Instructor: Mike Medina has over 40 years of experience as a field biologist and instructor. He spent 32 years on active and reserve duty and as a civil service employee with the US Navy as a vector ecologist, global health specialist, natural resource specialist, and senior leader. In 2022, he retired and began volunteering and teaching with Desert Institute. Mike is also a National Park Service volunteer field and nursery/herbarium technician and a Preventative Search and Rescue team member.

Photo Credit: NPS/Emily Crampe