Geologic Displays
The park encompasses some of the most interesting
geologic displays found in California's deserts. Exposed
granite
monoliths and rugged mountains of twisted
rock testify to the power of the earth forces that shaped this land.
Washes,
playas,
alluvial fans,
bajadas,
pediments,
desert varnish,
granites,
aplite,
and
gneiss
interact to form a giant desert mosaic of immense beauty and complexity.
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Joshua Tree is crisscrossed with hundreds of
faults,
and is a great place to see raw rocks and the effects of
earthquakes. The famous
San Andreas Fault
bounds the south side of the park, and can be observed from
Keys View. Blue
Cut Fault in the center of the park can be seen from the hilltop behind
Lost Horse Mine.
The fault forms the
straight, abrupt base of the Hexie Mountains east of Queen Valley.
White Tank Natural Arch
Mojave Desert Geology