In the desert landscape of Landers, near the iconic Joshua Tree National Park, lies Giant Rock, a colossal boulder that has captivated visitors for generations. Once hailed as the largest freestanding boulder in the world, this geological marvel stood an impressive seven stories tall until a significant chunk broke off in 2000. Beyond its sheer size, Giant Rock boasts a fascinating history that adds to its mystique and allure.
To Get There
Giant Rock is off a dirt road in Landers CA. It’s best to have 4-wheel drive for this road but it isn’t fully necessary. If you don’t have it drive slowly and look for any potholes as you go. It’s not a well maintained road.
Location: Giant Rock
There aren’t any admission fees or even a parking lot. You can drive right up to the boulder to explore. Just don’t stray too far from your car and get lost.
When To Go
- The best time of year to visit Joshua Tree National Park is March-May and October-November.
Avoid July & August, it’s too hot to do anything. - The winter months of December – February are cold but still doable if you prefer off season travel with less crowds.
- June and September are on the hotter side, but if you avoid midday hiking you’ll be okay.
The History of Giant Rock
In the 1930’s a German immigrant named Critzer dug a 400-square-foot home for himself directly beneath the giant rock. Unfortunately, his German origin and radio antenna led people to believe he might be a spy, and a police raid was made on his cavern. Supposedly when authorities attempted to extricate Critzer by shooting tear gas canisters into his cave, one accidentally ignited a small store of mining explosives and blew him up. It turns out Critzer wasn’t a spy, he was just a loner.
Critzer’s friend, Van Tassel, opened an old airfield at the Giant Rock in the 1950s, naming it Giant Rock Airport. Van Tassel believed in extraterrestrials. He started holding meditation sessions in Critzer’s old home under the Giant Rock. Van Tassel claimed to receive information for the construction of a fantastic machine inspired by a meeting with alien life and ideas from scientists like Nikola Tesla, which inspired the construction what was to be a “rejuvenation machine.” It was dubbed “The Integratron.”
Giant Rock is just a short distance from The Integratron, where you can now book a soothing meditative sound bath. It’s great place to explore the desert and imagine all of the interesting tales that precede this massive boulder.
I hope this helps you plan your trip! Do you have any more insights on things to do in Landers? Please leave them in the comments below.
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