It is about a two-hour drive from from San Diego, Riverside, and Palm Springs. Many visitors approach from the east or west via Highways S22 and 78. From the coast, these highways descend from the heights of the Peninsular range of mountains with spectacular views of the great bowl of the Colorado Desert. Highway S2 enters the park from the south off of Interstate 8. Averages 650,000 people per year.
Seasonal temperatures can be extreme, and layered clothing is always advised.
Carry plenty of water in your vehicle and while hiking. The Center is built under a desert garden, and is hidden from the road. Park in the parking lot and take the walkway past the flagpole. The facility is open every day from October through May, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. From June through September, it is open on weekends and holidays only. Stop by to pick up information on wildflowers, visit our museum, see a free slide show or video program, or peruse the wide selection of publications on the park's natural and cultural resources at the bookstore.