Backcountry Camping

A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Reservations can be made on recreation.gov.

Four backpackers hiking down a dirt trail towards rocky outcrops on the horizon.

Backpacking Along the Boy Scout Trail

Backpacking is a popular way of enjoying the beauty and solitude that the wilderness has to offer. In the northern portion of the park, the Boy Scout Trail offers exceptional opportunities to backpack in quiet and isolated portions of the park. The Boy Scout Trail covers eight miles, running from the Indian Cover area in the north to Park Boulevard near Quail Springs in the south through spectacular desert.  <h2>Be Prepared</h2> All backpackers must get a backpacking permit online at <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675329">recreation.gov</a>.  Take plenty of water. You should take all of the water that you will need with you, at least one gallon of water per person per day, two if it is the summer. Natural water sources should not be used. No campfires. Campfires are not allowed in the backcountry and you should take a stove or pre-cooked meals with you. Leave no trace. Pack everything that you take in back out. Take nothing but photos. Leave nothing but footprints. Campsites should be at least one mile from roads and at least 500 feet from the trail and water sources. Much of the land east of the trail is a day-use only area. Please camp on the west side of the trail.  <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Read more information and a full list of wilderness rules</a>

A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired by: 1. Visiting <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675329">Recreation.gov</a> and book a permit online. Online same day permits will be available through recreation.gov up until 2 pm on the day of departure. 2. Calling 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent.

Experience Joshua Tree National Park's wilderness by backpacking along the Boy Scout Trail.

Wilderness Backpacking Along the Boy Scout Trail

Trails

Wilderness

Hiking

A trail leading through a valley of Joshua trees with mountains and rock formations in the distance.

Minerva Hoyt Trail

The Minerva Hoyt Trail is an out-and-back hike to the Hidden Valley picnic area. It is 3 miles roundtrip with 100 feet of elevation gain. From the parking lot, the trail follows an old road before it takes a sharp right towards Hidden Valley. The hike goes through a valley of Joshua trees with excellent views of unique rock formations and mountains in the distance. It can be combined with the 1-mile Hidden Valley Nature Trail to create a 4-mile “lollipop” loop.   The trail is named after Minerva Hoyt, the founding force behind Joshua Tree National Park. She lobbied congress and President FDR to preserve the area. Her efforts helped the park become designated as a National Monument in 1936. It later became a National Park in 1994.

Hiking in the summer can be deadly. Always check the weather before hiking and bring plenty of water and appropriate clothing and sun protection. Always tell a friend or family member where you are going and when you will return. 

Hike Minerva Hoyt Trail

wo hikers walk along a sandy trail surrounded by golden vegetation and tall granite rock formations

Willow Hole Trail

The Willow Hole Trail begins at the Boyscout Trailhead. The trailhead is located on Park Blvd., apporoximately 6.5 miles past the West Entrance Station. 

The Willow Hole Trail is an out-and-back hike that ventures into the Wonderland of Rocks. It is 7 miles roundtrip and has 246 feet of elevation gain. The hike begins at the Boy Scout Trailhead and initially follows the same path as the Boy Scout Trail. After 1.2 miles, the trail splits off to the right (northeast) and heads 2.3 miles to Willow Hole. Look for cottonwood and willow trees in this area. Occasionally, Willow Hole will have a small pool of water during and after periods of rainfall. If you spot wildlife at the water souce please observe from a distance and do not approach.  The first part of the trail to Willow Hole features expansive views of the desert and distant mountains. The second part of the trail follows washes into the Wonderland of Rocks, a labyrinth of cliffs, canyons, domes, and unique rock formations. During this section, pay close attention to following the trail signs and correct wash.  Overnight camping is not allowed at Willow Hole or in the Wonderland of Rocks area as they are an important and sensitive wildlife and vegetation area. Backpacking is permitted on the west side of the Boy Scout Trail.

Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on this trail, but service animals are welcome. Service animals must remain on a 6-foot (1.8 meter) leash at all times.

Enjoy a scenic hike into the Wonderland of Rocks.

Hike Willow Hole

A valley filled with Mojave yuccas and desert vegetation with mountains in the backbround.

Contact Mine

The Contact Mine Trailhead is a 1/2 mile south of the North Entrance Station, outside of Twentynine Palms. 

The Contact Mine Trail is an out-and-back hike to a historic mining site. It is 4-miles round trip with 700 feet of elevation gain. The trail begins in a sandy wash then ascends a rocky mountainside to the mine. The hike features expansive views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to view mining artifacts used a century ago. Do not handle or remove any historic artifacts from the site.  This trail is a great option if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy more solitude. After abundant winter rains, this trail offers a vibrant springtime display of wildflowers.

Enjoy a secluded hike to a historic mining site.

Hike Contact Mine

Mining

The information sign at the beginning of the trail

Lost Horse Mine

From Park Blvd, turn off onto Key's View Rd and drive 2.4 miles to Lost Horse Mine Rd. Turn off on this dirt road and travel 1 mile to the trailhead.  

The Lost Horse Mine Trail is a 6.8-mile loop with 900 feet of total elevation gain. The trail showcases the rich mining history of Joshua Tree. Along the trail, you will see a stamp mill, mining equipment and artifacts, and the remnants of an old cabin. Please stay out of the fenced-off milling site and any closed-off mines. It is illegal to remove any historic artifacts from the area.  The hike can be shortened by walking to the stamp mill site then back down to the parking lot instead of completing the loop. This variation is 4 miles roundtrip with 550 feet of elevation gain.  The parking lot at the trailhead is small and fills quickly during busy weekends, holiday times, and spring break. Start early and have a backup hike ready. Do not park alongside the 1-mile dirt road leading to the trailhead.  This trail has limited shade and unreliable cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 8 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on trails, but service animals are welcome. Service animals must remain on a 6-foot (1.8 meter) leash at all times.

Hike Lost Horse Mine

Sign for the trailhead for the West Side Loop with mountains and desert vegetation in the background

West Side Loop Trail

The West Side Loop Trail is a moderate, 4.7-mile loop hike in the Black Rock area of Joshua Tree. The trail meanders through stands of large Joshua trees and pinyon-juniper woodland and ascends 785 feet of vertical gain. The hike offers stunning views of San Gorgonio, the tallest peak in Southern California. This area of the park tends to be slightly cooler and less busy than other areas of the park.   There are multiple places to park and start/finish this trail. The most common are the Black Rock Nature Center and the trailhead for the Hi-View Nature Trail. The Black Rock Nature Center is located in the center of the Black Rock Campground. Park at the nature center and walk west to where the trail begins from the parking area between campsites 20 and 21. To access the Hi-View Nature Trailhead, take the road west from the campground entrance (past the horse camp and water tank) to the parking area/trailhead at the end of the road. On busy days when parking is limited, visitors may use the horse camp area as overflow parking. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite.  Bring a good map when hiking in the Black Rock area because many trails crisscross and intersect. This trail has limited shade and unreliable cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 8 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on this trail but they can be walked around the Black Rock Campground. 

Enjoy a moderate loop hike in the Black Rock area

Hike West Side Loop

A viewpoint showing a yucca cactus, desert mountains, and a snowy peak in the background.

A vista along the Hi-View Nature Trail

To access the trailhead, take the road west from the campground entrance (past the horse camp and water tank) to the parking area/trailhead at the end of the road. On busy days when parking is limited, visitors may use the horse camp area as overflow parking. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite. 

The Hi-View Nature Trail is a 1.3-mile loop hike in the Black Rock area. The hike ascends 400 feet of elevation gain and reaches a high point with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Along the trail, you will see large Joshua trees, pinyon pine, and juniper trees. This area of the park tends to be slightly cooler and less busy than other areas of the park.   To access the trailhead, take the road west from the campground entrance (past the horse camp and water tank) to the parking area/trailhead at the end of the road. On busy days when parking is limited, visitors may use the horse camp area as overflow parking. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite.  Alternatively, hikers can add more mileage to their trek by starting from the parking lot between Black Rock campground sites 20 and 21. This would turn the hike into a “lollipop” loop and be a total of 3 miles.  Bring a good map when hiking in the Black Rock area because many trails crisscross and intersect.  This trail has limited shade and unreliable cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 8 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Hike Hi-View Nature Trail

Cottonwood trees and California fan palms

Cottonwood Spring

Cottonwood springs is located one mile southeast of the cottonwood visitor center. The road from the visitor center will dead end at the trailhead.

Enjoy a short 0.1-mile stroll to a spring-fed oasis filled with cottonwood trees and California fan palms, the only native palm tree in the Western US. Joshua Tree is home to five fan palm oases. This is a great place to observe multiple species of birds and enjoy the shade of the palm trees.   Cottonwood Spring was an important water source for Native Americans, prospectors, and miners in the area. Just past the oasis is a bedrock mortar, a Native American milling site used to grind seeds, nuts and acorns. Look for the interpretive sign along the trail just past the wash. Cottonwood Spring was first mentioned in a gold mining claim filed in 1875. The remains of an arrastra, a primitive type of gold mill, can also be found near the spring. It is illegal to take any cultural artifacts from the national park.   Much of the oasis is closed off to visitors to help protect the fragile ecosystem and allow wildlife to have undisturbed access to this rare and vital water source. Please do not go beyond the established boundaries.   The trail can be continued past cottonwood spring to mastodon peak (3 miles roundtrip) and lost palms oasis (7.5 miles roundtrip).

Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on trails, but service animals are welcome. Service animals must remain on a 6-foot (1.8 meter) leash at all times.

Hike Cottonwood Spring

Desert shrubs and Joshua trees in the foreground and rock formations and mountains in the background

Cap Rock

To get to Cap rock, turn off from Park Blvd. onto Key's View Rd. and drive .2 miles to the trailhead.

This trail is an easy 0.4-mile (0.6-km) loop with minimal elevation change. It winds through Joshua trees, Mojave yuccas, and spectacular granite rock formations. Along the trail, there are benches to rest on and interpretive signs showing information about plants and wildlife.  There are picnic tables and a bathroom near the trailhead.  This trail has minimal shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am and bring water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Hike Cap Rock

A wooden bridge over a wash with a valley filled with desert vegetation in the background.

Bajada Nature Trail

The trail is located near the southern boundary of the park. The trailhead is on Cottonwood Springs Rd approximately 1.5 miles north of of Interstate 10, exit 168. 

This short and flat, quarter-mile nature trail meanders through common vegetation found in the Colorado Desert. Along the trail are interpretive signs highlighting different plants and their adaptations and uses. The trail is located near the southern boundary of the park, south of the Cottonwood Visitor Center. It is much lower in elevation than most of the park and offers a unique showcase of plants highly adapted to extreme heat and little rain. Occasionally, after wet winters, this trail will offer vibrant displays of wildflowers in February and March.

Enjoy this short, easy trail through the Colorado desert.

Hike Bajada Nature Trail

A large Joshua tree in the middle of a trail through a desert landscape.

Panorama Loop Trail

Hike up a sandy wash, then follow the ridgeline of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Enjoy scenic views, dense Joshua tree forest, and pinyon-juniper woodland. This trail is 6.6 miles and has over a 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Warren Peak can be reached from a spur-trail off of the Panorama Loop. Bring a good map when hiking in the Black Rock area because there are many trails that crisscross and intersect.  There are a few parking areas around the Black Rock Campground and Nature Center for hikers. Parking in the campground area can fill up on busy days. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite. To find the trailhead, hike south from the Black Rock Nature Center, in the uphill direction. At the end of the campground, find the trail sign for panorama loop and start up the washy trail.  This trail has limited shade and unreliable cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 9 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

The summer heat can be deadly. This trail is not recommended during the summer. If hiking during high heat, get to the trailhead before 9 am and always let a safety buddy know where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park. Cell service is unreliable and cannot be garaunteed. There is also no running water. Always check the weather before heading into the park, and consider delaying your hike if the weather conditions are too extreme. 

Hike up a sandy wash, then follow the ridgeline of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Enjoy scenic views, dense Joshua tree forest, and pinyon-juniper woodland. This trail is 6.6 miles and has over a 1,000 feet of elevation gain.

A hiker walking along a barren trail with desert vegetation and small boulders.

Arch Rock Trail and Hiker

The trailhead is located at the Twin Tanks Parking Area and Backcountry Board. The Twin Tanks Parking Area is on the west side of Pinto Basin Road, 1 mile south of Belle Campground. The California Riding and Hiking Trail also intersects this parking area. 

The Arch Rock Trailhead is in the Twin Tanks Parking Lot. The trail looks like a lollipop; the route heads in a straight line for .6-miles from the parking lot to the east, where it becomes a short loop. Hikers can take the loop in either direction, but hiking it counterclockwise is recommended because it is easier to spot the namesake arch from that direct. The loop is a short .2-miles and leads hikers back to the straightaway trail to the parking lot. The arch is roughly .1-mile into the loop section and is a popular photography spot. The loop also has educational wayside signs along the trail describing the unique geology and characteristics in the area. The first part of the trail is mostly sandy, whereas the loop section is mostly rocky.  This trail has no shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry. Please help us protect our wildlife by walking pets on-leash in campgrounds or on dirt roads. 

The park can be dangerously hot. If hiking in the summer, get to the trailhead before 10 am and always let a safety buddy know where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park. There is no cell service and no running water. Always check the weather before heading into the park, and consider delaying your hike if the weather conditions are too extreme. 

Hike the Arch Rock Trail, a lollipop trail through sandy and rocky terrain. A .6-mile trail leads to a .2-mile loop. The arch is located halfway along the loop. The full hike is 1.4 miles.

This area is open at night, but navigation can be difficult after dark. Only experienced navigators and hikers should hike the Arch Rock Trail at night. Additionally, the trail goes past White Tank Campground, and hikers must respect quiet hours. Hikers in the area between 10 pm and 8 am should keep their volume low to not disrupt sleeping campers. 

Hike Arch Rock

Geology

Scenic Views

A dirt path heading past a sign, Joshua trees, small trees, and shrubs towards large rock formations

Wall Street Mill

The trailhead is located off Queen Valley Road just east of Barkers Dam.

Wall Street Mill is a moderate two mile out and back hike to an old mill site. This mill was used to process gold from local mining operations. At the end of the trail the homestead and mill still stands and there are several old rusted cars around the area. Please leave all artifacts for future visitors to enjoy as well. The trailhead starts just east of the Barker Dam area from a dirt parking lot off of Queen Valley Road. This trail has little shade and no cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail but can be walked on nearby dirt roads including Bighorn Pass Road. Pets can also be walked in campgrounds including Hidden Valley Campground. 

Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am and should bring plenty of water. 

A moderate two mile out and back hike to an old mill site.

This trail is day-use only. Experienced hikers who are looking for night hikes should explore the Boy Scout Trail or the Cap Rock Trail. 

Hike Wall Street Mill

Hikers on a dirt trail going between Joshua trees and shrubs heading towards a rock formation.

Hiking the Boy Scout Trail

Explore the Wonderland of Rocks on the Boy Scout Trail. The Boy Scout Trail runs for a total of 8 miles one way(16 miles round trip), but hikes of any length can be a great way to experience the Wonderland of Rocks. Start from the Keys West Wilderness Backpacking Board along Park Boulevard and enjoy a hike for as long as you would like. This trail has little shade and unreliable cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Use caution if hiking in the summer, the temperature regularly exceeds 100°F (38°C). If hiking in the summer take plenty of water. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am, turn around well before they are tired,and avoid hiking during the middle of the day.

Explore the Wonderland of Rocks on the Boy Scout Trail.

This trail is open at night, but only experienced hikers with good navigation skills should night hike in the park. Always remain on the trail, have a safety buddy, and don't hike beyond your limits. 

Hike Upper Boy Scout Trail

A dirt trail starting between wooden fences with rocky mountains in the distance.

Indian Cove Nature Trail

The trailhead is located at the west end of the Indian Cove Campground.

The Indian Cove Nature Trail is an easy .6 mile loop with 50 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead located at the west end of the Indian Cove Campground. Interpretive panels are located along the path with information on local plants and their traditional uses by Native Americans. This trail has no shade and unreliable cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail but can be hiked around the roads in Indian Cove Campground. 

Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in the summer, it is recommended to take at least one liter of water per person during the summer.

Hike Indian Cove Nature Trail

A backcountry board with hiking and backpacking info next to a dirt trail heading towards mountains.

Pine City Trailhead

The Pine City Trail is a moderate four mile out and back trail. This is a fairly flat trail that goes through a dense stand of pinyon pines and juniper trees before arriving at an old mining site. For safety do not try to enter the mining site. The trailhead is located at the end of the Desert Queen Mine Road. Though named after the large populations of pinyon pines that grow in the area, the trail is an excellent place to view many desert plants. Classic Mojave Desert flora speckle the landscape including creosote, Mojave yucca, and a wide variety of cactus. The trail also passes by some small rock formations that can be fun to scramble over and explore for all ages.  This trail has no shade and no cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail but can be walked on the nearby dirt roads like Bighorn Pass Road.

Use caution if hiking in the summer, temperature regularly exceed 100°F (38°C). If hiking in the summer take plenty of water and it is best to avoid hiking during the middle of the day. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am.

Hike Pine City Trail

A hiker looking through a rocky landscape to a valley with mountains in the distance.

Hiker In Hidden Valley

The trailhead is located at the Hidden Valley Picnic Area.

Hidden Valley Nature Trail is an easy one mile hike. The trail starts near the Hidden Valley Picnic Area and gains 100 feet of elevation as it makes a loop around Hidden Valley, which was rumored to have once been used by cattle rustlers. There are interpretive signs along the way providing information on the area and its plants and wildlife. This trail has little shade and no cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Enjoy an easy one mile hike on Hidden Valley Nature Trail.

Hike Hidden Valley Nature Trail

A hiker on a dirt trail headed towards a large rock formation in the distance.

Hiker on Mastodon Peak

Mastodon Peak is a moderate three mile loop with 375 feet of elevation gain. This hike starts from the Cottonwood Spring Oasis parking lot and starts on the Lost Palms Oasis Trail by Cottonwood Spring before splitting off to the left on the Mastodon Peak Loop. This hike provides great views of the southern portion of the park and includes an option scramble up to the top of the craggy granite peak. This hike can be combined with the Lost Palms Oasis Trail for a longer hike. This trail has no shade and no cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park. Summer hikers should start this trail before 9 am and bring plenty of water.

Pets are not allowed on this trail. Pets can be walked nearby at Cottonwood Campground or along one of the park's many dirt roads. 

Use caution during the summer or whenever it is hot on this hike. During high temperatures it is best to avoid hiking in the middle of the day. Summer hikers should start this trail before 9 am and bring plenty of water.

A moderate three mile loop with 375 feet of elevation gain.

Hike Mastodon Peak

A dirt trail between split rail fences with three hikers in the distance heading towards mountains.

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trailhead

The Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is a difficult three mile out and back hike with 300 feet of elevation gain in each direction. Located on the northern edge of the park off Highway 62 on Canyon Road, this trail climbs over a ridge and into a desert canyon and oasis. Hikers are rewarded with scenic views, abundant plant life, and the potential to see wildlife. This oasis is a sensitive biological area, please follow posted signs and do not enter the oasis as this is a crucial water supply for plant and wildlife. This trail has no shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 9 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail. Pets can be walked around the Oasis of Mara path in the town of Twentynine Palms. 

This hike has little shade and is not recomended during the summer or when it is very hot. Hikers who attempt this trail in the summer should start before 9 am and should bring plenty of water.  This trail may be closed during the summer to help protect bighorn sheep populations.

A difficult three mile hike to a desert oasis.

Hike Fortynine Palms Oasis

A person walking a sidewalk next to a fence in front of chollas with the sun setting over mountains.

Cholla Cactus Garden at Sunset

Cholla Cactus Garden is an easy quarter mile walk with minimal elevation gain along Pinto Basin Road. This walk meanders through a dense patch of teddy bear cholla on the edge of the Pinto Basin and provides views of the basin and surrounding mountains. Even though this is a short and easy hike, it is strongly recommended to wear closed shoes for protection from the cholla. This trail has no shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

An easy quarter mile hike through a cholla patch along Pinto Basin Road.

Hike Cholla Cactus Garden

A man on a trail holds a camera and smiles towards a person kneeling in front of a rock

Hikers on the Split Rock Trail

The Split Rock Trailhead is located at the end of Split Rock Road. Split Rock Road turns off of Park Boulevard 10.4 miles (16.7 km) from Oasis Visitor Center and 27.3 miles (43.9km) from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center. The turn off to Split Rock is on the northside of Park Boulevard. 

Split Rock is a 2.5 mile loop trail with 150 feet of elevation gain. The trail moves through washes, over rocks, and past large boulders. The rock formations highlight the park's geologic forces and can be fun for hikers of all ages.  Hikers looking for a longer trail experience can take the Face Rock Spur Trail to the Discovery Trail and all the way to the Skull Rock Trail. Linking up the Split Rock, Discovery, and Skull Rock Trails creates an approximately 5-6 mile hike. Hikers should only link trails if they have a map and good navigation skills.  This trail has no shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 9 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Pets and emotion support animals are not allowed on trails in Joshua Tree National Park but service animals are welcome. The closest campgrounds are Jumbo Rocks and Belle and both are great places to walk a pet. 

The summer heat is extreme and can be dangerous. This trail is not recommended in the summer. 

Split Rock is a 2.5 mile loop trail with 150 feet of elevation gain and beautiful desert views.

This trail is in a day-use only area. Cars cannot be left in the Split Rock Parking Area overnight. 

Hike Split Rock

A person hiking a dirt trail on a mountain with mountains in the distance.

Hiker on Ryan Mountain

Ryan Mountain is a difficult three mile out and back hike with 1,050 feet of elevation in the central part of Joshua Tree National Park. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, but quickly gains in elevation up the mountain. This is one of the most popular hikes as it provides sweeping panoramic views of the park.  The trailhead for Ryan Mountain is located along Park Boulevard between Ryan Campground and Sheep Pass Campground. There is a secondary trailhead for campers at Sheep Pass Campground, but there is no parking available at Sheep Pass for non-campers.

This hike has very little shade and is not recommended to try during the summer or anytime it is very hot.

A popular, steep, three mile out and back hike with wide panoramic views.

Hike Ryan Mountain

Mountains

A hiker walking on a dirt trail with rocks in the background

Hiker on the Skull Rock Trail

The trail can be accessed at the Skull Rock Parking Area along Park Boulevard or in Jumbo Rocks Camground. Campers should pick up the trail from the campground, but hikers should park at the Skull Rock Parking as there is almost no day-use parking in the campground. Hikers that park in designated campsites without a reservation are subject to a fine. The Skull Rock Parking Area is located 11 miles from the Oasis Visitor Center and 23 miles from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center. This is a popular parking area which can fill up during the busy season including, around holidays, in the spring and on the weekends.

Hike through the large, granite boulder fields around the Jumbo Rocks area, including the namesake rock near Park Boulevard that closely resembles a skull. The trail meanders through boulders, washes, and the Jumbo Rocks Campground. This is an excellent trail for anyone who wants to get up close to the rough granitic rock formations that Jumbo Rocks Campground was named after.  Hikers can pick up the trail in a few areas, but the most common trailhead is the one at the Skull Rock Parking Area. The loop can be hiked in either direction, but we'll describe the trail in the clockwise direction starting from the Skull Rock Parking Area. The first highlight, only about 70 feet from the road, is the namesake Skull Rock. This large boulder has a few cavities that resemble the eye and nose sockets of a skull and is hard to miss. Next, the trail moves past the southwest (right) side of Skull Rock and turns towards the right, eventually meeting up with a road in Jumbo Rocks Campground. Hikers should turn right onto this campground road and head toward the campground entrance, where the trail intersects with Park Boulevard. The trail crosses Park Boulevard, meandering back into the desert landscape, and eventually turns back towards the east (left), heading back to the parking area. The trail is mostly sandy and occasionally crosses a hard rock surface.   The Discovery Trail connects The Skull Rock Trail with the Split Rock Loop for approximately 5-6 miles of hiking for those who enjoy longer hikes.

Pets and emotional support animals are allowed in Jumbo Rocks Campground and must be on-lesh. Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry. Please help us protect our wildlife by walking pets in campgrounds or on dirt roads. 

The park is dangerously hot in the summer. If hiking in the summer, get to the trailhead before 10 am and always let a safety buddy know where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park. There is no cell service and no running water on the Skull Rock Trail. Always check the weather before heading into the park, and consider delaying your hike if the weather conditions are too extreme. 

A relatively flat, 1.7-mile loop trail. Hike through the large, granite boulder fields around the Jumbo Rocks area, including one near Park Boulevard that closely resembles a Skull. 

Hike Skull Rock

An easy 1.1 mile hike past Barker Dam.

Three hikers walking along a dirt path running between large boulders.

Barker Dam Hike

The Barker Dam Nature Trail is a relatively flat, 1.1-mile loop through the Mohave Desert. This trail will take you by monzogranite rock formations and boulders, Joshua trees, a wide range of plant life, the Barker Dam, and a rock art site. This area can be a hotspot for wildlife sightings, especially when the dam has water, a coveted desert resource.  Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about Barker Dam and the plants, animals, and people that call the desert home. The rock art site, a highlight of the trail, tells a story of the desert's human history. Do not climb on or otherwise disturb the rock art and the boulder the rock art lives on. Much of the rock art is not immediately visible and may exist on any portion of the rock, so please refrain from stepping on, climbing on, or touching any part of the rock formation. View the rock art from a respectable distance at the signage for the site.

This hike can be done year round. Summer hikers should be prepared for 100°F temperatures and have at least one liter of water per person.

Enjoy an easy 1.1 mile hike on the Barker Dam Nature Trail.

Hike Barker Dam Nature Trail

Colonization and Settlement

Dams

Ranches

Scenic Driving

The time can vary greatly based on the exact route how much you would like to stop, look around, and hike.

A car driving a winding road between Joshua trees with a large rock formations in the background.

Car Along Park Boulevard at Sunset

Driving Park Boulevard can be a great way to see a lot of Joshua Tree National Park in a couple of hours. This drive can be combined with shorts side stops and hikes along the way for longer trips. Park Boulevard will take you by many highlights, rock formations, and Joshua tree groves. Some of the top highlights along Park Boulevard include Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, Ryan Mountain, and Skull Rock. Short detours can also add stops at Keys View and Barker Dam. This basic loop can be done entering from either the north entrance (near Twentynine Palms) or west entrance (near the town of Joshua Tree) and exiting from the other so that the trip both starts and ends from Highway 62 on the north side of the park. To make the drive longer, Park Boulevard can be combined with Pinto Basin Road, entering from either the west entrance or south entrance and exiting from the other. This option will add more of the lower elevation Colorado Desert side to the drive and include the Cholla Cactus Garden and Cottonwood Spring.

Leashed pets are allowed within 100 feet (30.5 m) of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds and are not allowed on trails.

A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park.

Drive Park Boulevard

Roads, Routes and Highways

Two people on a paved trail heading towards a clump of fan palms with mountains in the distance.

Nature Trail at Oasis of Mara

The trail starts from the back of the Oasis Visitor Center.

The Oasis of Mara is an easy half mile loop on a paved trail with minimal elevation gain. This trail begins at the Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms and provides an easy opportunity to visit a desert oasis and the increased chance to see desert wildlife with the rare water source that the oasis provides. There are interpretive panels along the way to learn about the oasis.

An easy half mile walk to a desert oasis.

Hike Oasis of Mara

Hikers descending a dirt trail through Joshua trees, yuccas, and shrubs.

Hiking to Lost Palms Oasis

The Lost Palms Oasis Trail is a difficult 7.5 mile out and back hike with 500 feet of elevation. Starting from Cottonwood Spring, most of this hike is on rolling hills through the desert before climbing down into the Lost Palms Canyon to reach the oasis. This last section of the trail to reach the oasis gets rocky and is a strenuous climb to get back out. Hikers that make it to the oasis are rewarded with a unique desert oasis full of fan palms and a high number of desert plants that can attract an array of wildlife. This hike can be combined with Mastodon Peak for a longer hike.

This hike has very little shade and is not recommended to do during the summer or anytime that it is hot.

Hike Lost Palms Oasis

Freshwater Springs

Rock Climbing

A boulderer stretching as the climb across a large rock face

Bouldering on Gunsmoke

The Barker Dam area provides a number of popular bouldering areas including Gunsmoke and Streetcar Named Desire. Barker Dam is a centrally located area along Barker Dam Road that offers a wide range in boulder problem difficulties to provide options for boulderers of all abilities. To access bouldering areas please use existing access routes to minimize your impact. Learn more about bouldering and climbing on the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/climbing.htm">park website</a> and follow any climbing closures. Bouldering guidebooks and hiking maps are available for purchase at park visitor centers.

Barker Dam offers a wide range of popular bouldering problems.

Bouldering Near Barker Dam

Rock Landscapes and Features

A rock climber making their way up a large reddish rock face.

Climber in Indian Cove

Indian Cove provides many popular rock climbing routes in the northern area of Joshua Tree National Park. Indian Cove is located between the West and North Entrances and can be accessed by its own entrance from Highway 62 and is not connected by road to the rest of the park. Some of the popular rock formations including Billboard Buttress, Pixie Rock, and Short Wall. With a range of difficulties, there are a variety of options around Indian Cove for technical rock climbers of all abilities. To access climbing areas please use existing climbing access routes to minimize your impact. Learn more about rock climbing on the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/climbing.htm">park website</a> and follow any climbing closures. Climbing guidebooks and hiking maps are available for purchase at park visitor centers. Consider hiring a guide or taking a class if you are learning to climb. Joshua Tree National Park does not maintain anchors or climbing routes, you are responsible for your own safety.

Indian Cove offers a wide range of popular technical rock climbing routes.

Joshua Tree