Random stops of quirkiness near Joshua Tree National Park

The Mohave Desert is a playground for experimental weirdness.  That's probably due to its low overhead cost and ample available land.  If you're visiting Joshua Tree National Park, try stopping by the Integratron or Pioneertown.  Both destinations are a 15-20 minute drive from Joshua Tree's Visitor Center on Park Blvd.


The Integratron is located in Landers, a small unincorporated area off the 247 Highway.  Landers' was a popular destination for UFO aficionados, which gave rise to this interesting structure.  According to its website, the dome shape structure "is a resonant tabernacle and energy machine sited on a powerful geomagnetic vortex."

The ghost-town like buildings of Pioneertown were built in the 1940s by actors who wanted to live out their cinematic personas off screen. The post office still functions and the church is active. Other structures are now souvenir shops, exhibits and actual residencies.




Comments