Indian Cove Nature Loop
- Physical DifficultyThis 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.
- Technical DifficultyThis 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.
This short, flat nature loop takes hikers through the desert area of Indian Cove. With information signs illustrating local botany and great views of the rock towers in the area, this is a thoroughly enjoyable little hike.
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Route Description for Indian Cove Nature Loop
This short loop trail is almost completely flat. However, for some mysterious reason it does not have that many signs! There are many unmarked junctions along the trail, but it is difficult to actually get lost. If you are completing the loop clockwise, always turn right at a junction, and similarly if you are going counter clockwise, always turn left.
Along the path you will find a number of informative signs. These describe the natural plant life of the desert environment and show how Native Americans used the plants medicinal properties throughout history.
Looking east, you will be able to see the massive monzogranite towers of Indian Cove. These are popular with rock climbers, so keep your eye out. We also suggest taking a walk through the campground to get a more intimate view of the rocks – they are literally everywhere!
Halfway through the hike you will enter a wash – a dried up creek-bed which flows during the flash floods which occur irregularly in the region. It is typically the most efficient way to cross this type of country. The only downside is that you will typically be hiking loose sand, which is not only somewhat challenging to walk in, but also gets in your shoes.
Finally you will climb out of the wash and return to the parking area.
Insider Hints for Indian Cove Nature Loop
- Indian Cove can be the hottest part of the park, especially when there is a lot of sun and no wind.
- Consider hiring a climbing guide in Joshua Tree town to take you climbing at the moderate crags of Indian Cove.
Getting to the Indian Cove Nature Loop Trailhead
Enter the park just west of Palm Springs via Indian Cove Road, with signs towards the Indian Cove Campground. Drive up this road till its terminus, the Indian Cove Campground. Turn right and navigate your way through the campground as far right as you can go. Find a small parking lot with signs for the interpretive loop trail at the far western tip of the campground. If you get lost in the network of small roads, just ask the campground ranger where to go – they will be more than happy to help!
Route Information
Indian Cove Nature Loop Elevation Graph
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