FAQ's

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Absolutely not!  Anyone that has the drive to explore can set off on a trail inside Joshua Tree National  Park.  There are numerous books, websites, and facebook groups that can answer questions and make suggestions on what to do and when.  There are, of course, a few very good reasons to hire a guide:

• Learning: A guide can share information and context that deepens your awareness and relationship with the desert landscape and ecology.  Hearing the  stories and knowledge that a guide has to offer is perhaps the greatest reason to hire the service.  What we have to offer is 20 years of experience on the trails and in the backcountry of Joshua Tree National Park.
• Avoiding the Crowd: A guide can help you navigate to the places where you'll encounter fewer people and cars so that you can capture the silence and sense of isolation that deserts are known for.  Spend more time on the trail and less time competing for space.
• Safety:  When you've got a guide, you've got someone that has your back.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services will monitor the weather and trail conditions so that you can go farther, higher, and see more, knowing that getting lost will not be on your list of To Do's for the day.  Wandering Mojave lead guide, Travis Puglisi, is a certified Wilderness First Responder that has completed the 11 Day course provided by NOLS.
• Respecting the Desert:  It may look barren and sterile to the untrained eye but Joshua Tree National Park contains an abundance of life, some of which is exceptionally sensitive.  Additionally, if hiking off trail is something that interests you it is important to do so responsibly in order to minimize negative impacts on the terrain.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services can assist you in being a responsible back country traveler.

Wandering Mojave Hiking Services’ Lead Guide, Travis Puglisi, has been living in the High Desert around Joshua Tree National Park for 20 years.  The money generated by hiking with him will stay in the local economy and help support a family that lives, works, and plays in the Morongo Basin. 

Yes, any entity or individual who conducts commercial activities within the Park must have a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) Permit that is issued by the National Parks Department.  Acquisition of this permit is dependent on many factors, two of which are First Aid and CPR certification and Proof of Insurance.  If you select one of our competitors be sure to request proof that they are active permit holders.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services operates under Permit# JOTR-CUA-20055

Lead Guide, Travis Puglisi has the requisite First Aid and CPR certifications awarded by the American Red Cross as well as a certification from NOLS as a Wilderness First Responder.

Yes.  We offer a 10% discount for Active Duty and Retired Military and Teachers (K-12).  You must provide proof of status and the payment must come from individual providing proof of status.  During the hot months in the desert (Mid-July through Mid-September) we offer a 12% discount to all guests.  During this time Military and Teacher discounts do not apply.  Visit our Rates and Reservations to see the full breakdown on prices.  Discounts are only available to those who book directly through Wandering Mojave Hiking Services.  Third party bookings, such as AirBnB Experiences and ExploreOrigin.com will not receive discounts.

Yes.  Generally speaking, fewer people hike in the desert between Mid-June and Mid-Septmber due to significantly hotter temperatures.  That does not mean you cannot hike during this time, it simply means you must choose routes carefully in order to account for the comfort and safety of the group.  Summer in the desert is a very special time and there are certain plants and animals that are more prominent during this time of year.  We’d encourage you to give it a try.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services offers a 12% discount during these months and prefer to offer Half Days over Full Days, although Full Days are still an available option.  Visit Rates and Group Options to see the full breakdown on prices.

Sorry but no.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services believes that for the guest to have the safest and most enjoyable experience direct contact is required.  Reach out Lead Guide Travis Puglisi HERE .  If it’s a last minute reservation DO NOT hesitate to Call.  

While Wandering Mojave Hiking Services understands that not all groups fall within our preferred range of 5, it is important to maintain these numbers for reasons of safety, impact on Joshua Tree National Park, and the quality of experience our guests have.  If you feel that you have a special situation and would like Lead Guide Travis Puglisi to consider making an exception to the policy please contact by email at wanderingmojave@gmail.com. 

Absolutely.  Wandering Mojave Hiking Services would be happy to provide the support you need for routes you already have in mind.  Just let us know what you’re interested in and we’ll make sure the route is right for you and that the way finding happens as it should.

Owner/Operator and Lead Guide Travis Puglisi is the father of a 4 year old and believes that time shared by families outdoors is a crucial aspect of positive child development.  Children are absolutely welcome as members of the group.  A few important notes

• Young children (infants-3years of age) that are carried for the duration of a hike in a carrier worn by a parent or guardian WILL NOT be considered as a numbered member of your group.  Meaning...you can have a child in a carrier AND up to 4 more individuals.
• Children are unpredictable by nature.  What this means is that if you reserve a Half Day or Full Day Hike, but your child decides he/she isn’t up for it, Wandering Mojave Hiking Services WILL NOT pro rate or refund any shortened days due to child based detour.
• There’s so much fun to be had, but it can be a taxing place with its heat, wind, and terrain, even for adults.  Unless a family has experience in being out for more than 5 hours at a time we suggest family’s opt for our Half Day outings.  We highly recommend The Scramble for children...they love it.

Yes.  Wandering Mojave can provide Daypacks/Hydration packs, trekking poles,  and water bottles.  We DO NOT provide hiking shoes or boots.  If you're interested is renting gear please be sure to mention it when you Contact Us.

All guest who wish to secure a date with Wandering Mojave are required to make a minimum 20% Deposit.  Hikes cancelled 14 days or more in advance of scheduled date will receive a full refund.  Hikes cancelled less than 14 days before a hike are not entitled to a return of deposit.  Any return of deposit with cancellation of 14 days for less is entirely discretionary.