The hike to the Fortynine Palms Oasis in Joshua Tree National Pak is about three miles roundtrip. The elevation gain each way is about 300 feet (up a ridge then down to a valley), in both directions. The trail is rated moderate. Bring plenty of water. There is no shade except at the oasis.

The best pictures of the oasis will be taken in quiet light. We hiked the train on an overcast day. Such times even out the light making the details such as the bark of the tree and the tree roots visible. Strong sun will burn out the highlights and deepen the shadows.

Feature Image Details

• Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
• Canon 11-24 F4.0 L lens at 17mm, F16, 0.4 seconds, ISO 125.

Additional Palm Images

All three images except the distant shot were taken with the 11mm-24. The distant shot was from the top of the ridge, with a Canon 24-105MM F4 L Lens, looking down. The light was even so there was no need to exposure-bracket.

They detail images taken in the oasis are focus-stacked.

Focus-stacking means I took several shots, first focusing on the closest part of the scene, then the middle of the scene, then the distant part of the scene. I blended the images in Photoshop after correcting then first in Lightroom. These images were a blend of only two shots each, one close the other far.

Equipment

Those interested in my equipment and recommendations can find it here: Mish’s Equipment List.

Other Joshua Tree National Park Articles

1. Joshua Tree National Park – Barker Dam – Autumn Reflections in December
2. Joshua Tree National Park – Skull Rock – Geminid Meteor Shower
3. Joshua Tree National Park – Arch Rock – Geminid Meteor Shower
4. Joshua Tree National Park – Barker Dam Petroglyphs

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Mike “Mish” Shedlock