Ranch Of The Rising Sun

A hilltop cabin in a unique area of the desert, this place is nestled on its own between Pioneertown and Yucca Valley on what feels like the scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. The trees, rocks, and landscape just outside the doors are just as breathtaking as anything you would see in the park, except you have them all to yourself.

There’s a wood-burning stove to keep you warm on those chill nights, while one of your musically talented friends can play a tune on the grand piano (though there’s also a Bluetooth sound system, for convenience). On the walls, you’ll find original art by the late Gerald Zeldin, and an interior so impressive it was featured in the NY Times fashion section. You can feel the history of this old mining cabin in the wood-beamed ceiling and clapboard (yet modern) bathroom. Picture-frame windows let the sunlight stream into this boho-chic interior and let you gaze out over the endless desert before you.

This place is totally off-grid and once you’ve experienced the unique feeling of heating the outdoor hot tub with firewood as you gaze at the stars, there’s no going back.

Home truths:
*The home is completely off-grid, so there’s a swamp cooler instead of air conditioning
*As it’s on top of a hill, there’s a slight walk from where you leave the car to the front door
*It has a lived-in feel that makes it very homely, but means that it doesn’t look brand new
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended and there is private parking with this home