There is no direct train service from the park to Palm Springs.

How long is the drive?

It is a 6.5-hour drive covering 650 kilometers.

Yes, the route is well-traveled and safe.

What is the best stop?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to stop for a day or two.

Petrified Forest

Palm Springs

Driving

Petrified Forest to Palm Springs

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Petrified Forest to Palm Springs is a 650-kilometer journey. You will travel west on I-40 to Barstow and then south on I-15 and I-10 through the heart of Southern California. The drive takes approximately 6.5 hours. This is a popular drive, passing through some of the most iconic landscapes in the American West. It is a long drive, so plan for multiple stops.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 550 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-40, I-15, and I-10 takes 6.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the only practical option.

Compare Petrified Forest to Palm Springs Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

6 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$85-$115 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-40 West to Barstow, then I-15 and I-10 South.

Stop in Joshua Tree National Park for a quick hike.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Palm Springs traffic can be heavy; plan your trip to avoid peak hours.
Dining
Try the local mid-century modern dining scene; it is unique to the area.
Weather
Palm Springs is very hot in the summer; stay hydrated.
Parking
Parking in downtown Palm Springs can be expensive; use public transit.
Public Transit
The SunLine Transit Agency bus system is a great way to get around the city.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
The drive is very long; take regular breaks.
Emergency
Keep a basic emergency kit in your car.
Cell Service
Expect long stretches with no signal in rural California.
Driving
Be cautious of aggressive drivers on the highways leading into the city.