High View Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5-1h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
120 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.9
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panoramic views of the High View trail hike in Joshua Tree National Park, California

The scenic High View Trail loop climbs a small hill in the northwest corner of the park. With beautiful views and typically few people, this hike is a treat for anyone willing to find it!

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Route Description for High View Trail

Find the trailhead on the far left side of the parking lot. The path will head out into the plane, and then veer slightly left as it climbs up a gully. Here, you will pass by plenty of desert shrubs as well as several large Joshua Trees.

As you ascend the gully the grade never gets too steep. Looking back you will have incredible views of the western hills of Joshua Tree National Park. Finally you will wind around to the left and start climbing the ridgeline to get to the summit. At the top of this small knoll you will have truly panoramic views of this quiet section of the park. Looking directly across the valley, towards where you parked, you will be able to see the South Park Peak.

Further in distance you will be able to see plenty of rolling mountains, and even the city of Joshua Tree. This hike has high ‘bang for buck,’ as the climb is relatively easy but has absolutely incredible views! Remember to sign the small summit register before starting your descent.

The descent continues along the trail, heading more directly back towards your parked car.

Insider Hints for High View Trail

  • There is little wind in this section of the park, so the heat can be stifling. Leave early to enjoy the cooler mornings!
  • The dirt road is easily passable by sedans, however take care to go around the blind corners slowly.

Getting to the High View Trail Trailhead

From Joshua Tree town, head west along Highway 62 (also know as 29 Palms Highway) for 3.2 km. Turn left onto Avalon Avenue then continue as it turns into Palomar Avenue. After just over 3.2 km you will reach a junction with Joshua Lane, turn left here. At the end of the road turn right onto San Marino Dr. and follow this road all the way to the campground. Along most of the route there are signs leading towards Black Rock Campground. Just before you reach the campground turn right onto the dirt road leading towards the horse campground. Follow this road past some park service buildings to its end, where you will find the small dirt parking lot.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Spring and Fall, avoid summer heat

  • Backcountry Campsites

    None

  • Toilets

    At campground shortly before trailhead

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

High View Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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High View Trail Reviews

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