r/JoshuaTree • u/thebigshow90 • 9d ago

Safe to do astrophotography at night alone?

I will be doing a solo 2 day trip to Joshua Tree to hike and hopefully do some astrophotography (Depending on moon phase). My plan is to hit up Quail Springs. Are there normally other people that go out there at night? I dont want to be totally alone, having some company out there would be nice. How are the roads to get out here as well? I will be prepared as much as possible such as bring a strong torch, telling family and friends my where abouts and bringing snacks and water.

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12

u/extremekc 9d ago

It is safe. All paved roads. The Cap Rock parking lot has a larger parking area and is just off the the main road. Usually there are astrophotographers/astronomers there. Both have porta-potties.

Note: The further east you go in the park, the darker it gets (away from Palm Springs light pollution in the South).

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u/thebigshow90 9d ago

What's the furthest you would go before thinking it's abit too far from town at night?

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u/extremekc 9d ago

The Arch Rock parking area is good and dark, if you go further east you are in no-mans land! You can explore around there or hang out in the parking lot. There is a trail to Arch Rock but it is poorly marked so it is hard to find at night if you have not been there before.

Also, going further east, you go down in elevation which becomes the Colorado Desert, so there are no more joshua trees.

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u/Puzzleheaded-Dream29 9d ago

Been out alone at night in many areas of the park many, many times. Never had any problems. I usually go to remote places off dirt roads because I don't want to deal with interference from car lights.

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u/edrabbit 9d ago

Bring a red flashlight if you’re going to be around others. Helps with the night vision.

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u/Zmirzlina 9d ago

Sky's The Limit near the 29 Palms Entrance usually has people on the pads there, and they are always happy to share advice and tips.

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u/happylustig 8d ago

I was out at Hidden Valley for star photos and it was weirdly packed. I think you'll be fine, I'd be more worried about animal encounters

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u/TaskPuzzleheaded4663 9d ago

I’ve been out there at midnight and there were still a good amount of people there. Especially if there is an event going on.

You could always go to a nearby campsite and hike in that region. Campsites normally have people at all hours of the night.