Final Preparations Underway for Joshua Tree 55
Excitement is building as the highly anticipated Joshua Tree 55 (JT55) cycling event approaches. With just days to go, final preparations are well underway to ensure an unforgettable experience for riders, volunteers, and the community. Here's everything you need to know about the event:
Rider Participation
This year's event has attracted a remarkable turnout, with 205 riders officially registered to take part. Cyclists of all levels are gearing up to challenge themselves and enjoy the stunning desert landscape. From New York to Texas to Washington, riders are coming to Twentynine Palms from across the country.
Volunteer Efforts
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the many volunteers who have stepped up to support JT55. Special thanks to the Kiwanis Club of Twentynine Palms, Rotary Club of Twentynine Palms, Twentynine Palms High School Interact Club, Twentynine Palms Youth Council, and our presenting sponsor, Visit 29 Palms.
However, there's always room for more helping hands to make this event a success. Community members interested in volunteering can still sign up by contacting the Twentynine Palms Parks & Recreation Department. A volunteer meeting will be held on Thursday, January 30 at 3PM to provide volunteers with information on their role in the event, meet the staff, and receive crucial event-day instructions.
Event Schedule
Here is the schedule for the day's activities:
- Early Check-In: Friday, January 31, from 4-6PM at the Twentynine Palms Community Center (6547 Freedom Way, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277)
- Day-of Check-In: Saturday, February 1, from 5-6AM at Knott's Sky Park (6701-6899 El Sol Avenue, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277)
- Ride Start: Saturday, February 1, at 6:15AM
Traffic and Driver Information
Drivers in the area are urged to exercise caution during the event. Expect increased cyclist presence along the route from 6AM to 1PM. The route will take cyclists from Knott's Sky Park to Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park. Roads to expect cyclists on include El Sol Avenue, Hatch Road, Sullivan Road, Adobe Road, Baseline Road, Utah Trail, and Park Boulevard. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution on these roads and share the road with cyclists.
Special Thanks
Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Visit 29 Palms, the Twentynine Palms City Council, City Manager Stone James, City of Twentynine Palms Parks & Recreation Department, City of Twentynine Palms Public Works Department, Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent Jane Rodgers, Joshua Tree National Park staff, Grocery Outlet, and all of our incredible volunteers for their support of this year's event.
We would also like to extend thanks to the many businesses in the Morongo Basin and Coachella Valley who are offering discounts and opportunity drawing prizes for our riders for the weekend. These businesses include Hi Desert Daydream, JT Trading Post, Mojave Moon Apothecary, Sowing Seeds Birth & Bodywork, 29 Palms Inn, Campbell House, Sky's the Limit Observatory and Nature Center, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Joshua Tree Candle Company, Red Jeep Tourse, Stargazing Joshua Tree, and more.
Joshua Tree 55 is more than just a cycling event—it's a celebration of community, fitness, and the stunning natural beauty of the high desert.
For more information, visit 29palms.org or contact the Twentynine Palms Parks & Recreation Department at (760) 367-7562.