Wellness Escape in the Desert: Yoga, Hiking & Stargazing Retreat in Joshua Tree

The retreat takes place at Desert Sage House, a five-acre property in Yucca Valley that has become something of a high-desert destination for artists and musicians. It's not a polished resort — it's an eclectic, creative hideaway with funky glampers scattered around, cozy reading corners, and outdoor spaces designed for gathering and wandering. Bunnies hop across the property, roadrunners zip past, and at night you might hear coyotes calling in the distance.

Each day follows a loose rhythm. Mornings begin with an optional yoga and breathwork session as the sun comes up, followed by a hearty brunch. Then the day's adventure unfolds — local hikes to interesting desert spots, a visit to an outdoor art display, or a full day in Joshua Tree National Park with hiking, a picnic lunch and a beginner-friendly rock climbing session among the famous formations. For an extra cost, you can add a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the desert.

Evenings are spent back at the property. There's a sunset paint night, campfires under the stars, and the chance to rotate between the sauna, cold plunge and hot tub. You can also take an outdoor shower or bath beneath the open sky — something that feels genuinely magical in the desert. After that, you crawl into your cozy glamper, settle under blankets, and listen to the sounds of the desert around you.

The retreat is led by Elizabeth Jane (EJ), an E-RYT 500 certified teacher with over a decade of experience, and Stacy Dixon, a yoga teacher from Ireland who's built her life around exploring the wild side of practice. The program is designed to be accessible to everyone — no previous yoga, hiking or climbing experience is required. It's a week that balances adventure with spaciousness, and there's always room to do less.

What's included

- Accommodation for 5 nights in a shared or private desert glamper - Nutritious, hearty brunch and dinner daily - Water, tea and coffee served throughout the day - Daily optional yoga classes - Excursions and activities, including nature hikes with a guide - Full-day Joshua Tree National Park excursion with picnic lunch - Beginner-friendly rock climbing session - Sunset paint night and campfire evenings - Access to sauna, cold plunge and hot tub - Free parking and wifi

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Additional treatments - Sunrise hot air balloon ride (optional extra)