Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, with its contorted trees and boulder-strewn landscape, is one of Southern California’s strangest and most beautiful regions. The park itself spans almost 800,000 acres at the point where two deserts (the Colorado and Mojave) meet. This magical place, studded with palm oases, natural springs, and open desert plains, is just waiting to be discovered.
Joshua Tree’s otherworldly landscapes have long attracted visitors, from gold prospectors and miners, to the Mormon settlers that gave the region its name. The strange trees that dot the landscape appeared to them as the arms of the Biblical Joshua, raised heavenwards, and the name stuck. However, today the majority of pilgrims come for the dramatic rocks and climbing routes that can be found all over the park.
The massive boulders and craggy rocks that characterize Joshua Tree National Park are the result of volcanic activity, which pushed molten monzogranite up to the surface of the earth. Over time, these rocks were cracked and weathered, creating the strange towers and cliffs that you see today. Punctuated with wild flowers and distinctive cacti, trees and shrubs, this landscape is truly out of this world.
Long sidelined in favor of California’s other natural attractions, Joshua Tree has recently become a popular destination for hiking, backpacking and rock climbing. Get in on the action and start planning a trip to this beautiful and surprising national park today!
Top 10 Hikes In Joshua National Park
Joshua Tree National Park may appear to be a stark, unforgiving landscape, but it’s actually one of the best places in California for easy, family-friendly hikes. You’ll find lots of short, flat hikes passing through the magical landscape, with plenty of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages. You’ll find beautiful nature trails, climbing routes and possibilities for stargazing – perfect for family adventures. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little more strenuous, many of these hikes can be linked together to form challenging day hikes that pass through some of the most beautiful scenery in the park. There’s a trail here to suit everyone.
- Indian Cove Nature Loop Hike: This short trail is one of the best easy hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll pass through the desert area of Indian Cove, where you can discover the distinctive local plants and the towering rocks that litter the landscape. If you’re interested in learning how to climb, this is a wonderful place to try – consider hiring a guide to help you explore the crags.
- Hidden Valley Loop Hike: The Hidden Valley Loop hike is very popular, and with good reason! The loop is close to the road and very short, so it’s the perfect hike if you don’t have much time. The path snakes through a gorgeous valley with some classic Joshua Tree scenery, studded with boulders and green shrubs. This hike boasts some of the finest monzogranite rock formations in the park.
- Pine City Hike: The name of this lovely, secluded trail is somewhat misleading, as there are only a handful of pines dotting the route. However, don’t let this put you off – this trail is a wonderful place for a family hike in Joshua Tree National Park, with expansive views and interesting rock formations. The trail is mainly flat but there’s very little shade, so make sure to bring a hat!
- Split Rock Trail Hike: This short hike is one of our favorite family hikes in Joshua Tree National Park! The trail snakes in and out of towering cliffs, imposing boulders, and strange rock formations, offering some fantastic opportunities for photos. This route is flat and easy to follow, making it ideal for younger children or visitors with mobility issues.
- Lost Horse Loop Trail Hike: This scenic route is one of the best day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll enjoy some wonderful views over the mountains as the trail undulates gently along the ridgeline. The loop passes by a historic gold mine, before dropping into a beautiful valley. This lovely route is a wonderful way to spend a day in the national park.
- Warren Peak Hike: This stunning hike is one of the slightly more challenging hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, climbing all the way up to the rocky summit of Warren Peak. This wonderful hike offers a fantastic panorama over the park, and follows one of the lesser-travelled routes so you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery in complete peace. If you’re feeling energetic, you can easily add on the Panorama Loop to extend the hike.
- Boy Scouts Trail Hike: If you’re looking for a fun adventure don’t miss this wonderful route, one of the best challenging hikes in Joshua Tree National Park! You’ll pass through expansive desert basins surrounded by small mountain ranges, rising to meet a number of exquisite rock formations. The trail continues over a number of small ridges with views down into the Indian Creek area, where you’ll enjoy a marvelous panorama.
- Ryan Mountain Hike: Ryan Mountain is a popular peak in the center of Joshua Tree National Park, with wonderful 360-degree views. This trail is often busy, and is very exposed to the sun, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the cool morning weather. The trail will take you through a wide gully with weird and wonderful rock formations, and the summit offers simply wonderful views over the region.
- High View Trail Hike: Looking for a place to avoid the crowds in Joshua Tree National Park? Try the High View Trail, which ascends a small hill in the northwest of the park. This route is quieter than some of the other hikes on the list, meaning you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet! The climb is relatively easy, but offers spectacular views over the rolling mountains and rocky slopes of this secluded corner of Joshua Tree National Park.
- 49 Palm Oasis Hike: This wonderful hike is a local favorite, ascending to a small pass before dropping down to discover a hidden oasis. This is a great hike for older kids, who will feel as though they are uncovering a secret treasure in the desert. As the name suggests, there are a total of 49 palm trees filling the oasis, providing some welcome shade for weary hikers.
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Joshua Tree National Park?
Joshua Tree National Park is open all year round, and it’s possible to go hiking here at any time. However, the best times to hike in Joshua Tree National Park are between March and May and October and November. In spring and autumn the temperatures are cool and pleasant and you’ll be able to enjoy the trails without exposing yourself to the hot summer sun! What’s more, the wildflowers are in bloom from February through April, when you can see another side of this dramatic park. In July average temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius, although the trails will tend to be fairly quiet. In winter, the trails are accessible but temperatures drop, and you may encounter snow on higher ground.
Other Outdoor Activities In Joshua Tree National Park
Although hiking is very popular, there are plenty of other fantastic outdoor activities in Joshua Tree National Park. The park is a popular spot for backpacking, with several excellent campgrounds where you can slip into slumber under a sky filled with innumerable stars. One of the best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park is rock climbing and bouldering, as the amazing rock formations and cliffs provide some incredible climbing routes. In addition to this, you can take a nature tour to learn about the wonderful flora that decorates the park, or watch the hummingbirds dart in and out of the rocks and plants. There are also many opportunities to find out about the human history of Joshua Tree, including the native Cahuilla Indians, miners and gold prospectors that have traversed this region over the centuries.
How To Plan A Trip To Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re itching to explore the strange, otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, don’t worry – we’ve got all the information you’ll need to plan your adventure! We’ve put together a guide to planning a trip to Joshua Tree National Park, with insider tips on when to go, where to stay, and how to get the most out of your trip. There’s never been a better time to explore this wild, magnificent corner of California.
Frequently-Asked-Questions About Joshua Tree National Park
Is Joshua Tree National Park dangerous?
Joshua Tree National Park is a wilderness area, and so it’s important to take precautions when you’re out on the trail. In particular, many of the trails in Joshua Tree are very exposed to the sun, meaning that you’ll need to bring plenty of water and don’t hike alone. Desert wildlife and plants can also cause problems, especially for younger children, so make sure to take advice from local rangers before setting out.
Is Joshua Tree safe at night?
Joshua Tree National Park is very safe at night and indeed, is a popular spot for camping. This remarkable park is one of the best places for stargazing in California.
Are there mountain lions in Joshua Tree?
Mountain lions, otherwise known as cougars or pumas, have been spotted in Joshua Tree, although they are very shy of humans so you are unlikely to encounter one on the trail.
How did the Joshua Tree get its name?
The most famous resident of Joshua Tree National Park is the eponymous Joshua Tree itself. This slow-growing tree is an important part of the desert ecosystem. It was given its name by Mormon settlers in the mid-19th century, who thought that the tree’s strange shape was akin to the Bible story of Joshua raising his hands to the heavens in prayer.
Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
Contact Mine Trail
The Contact Mine Trail is one of the best short hikes available in Joshua Tree National Park. As the route ends at an abandoned mining site, many interesting historical artifacts can be found throughout the route's duration. The Contact Mine Trail is also an excellent place to birdwatch and admire seasonal wildflowers.
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Live Oak Tank and Ivanpah Tank Trail
A moderately trafficked loop, the Live Oak Tank and Ivanpah Tank is a beautiful hike in Joshua Tree National Park. With great views of the surrounding area, the Live Oak Tank and Ivanpah Tank Trail is a leisurely hike that is appropriate for the entire family.
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Boy Scout Trail To Willow Hole Extended Route Trail
The Boy Scout Trail To Willow Hole Extended Route Trail is a longer route than many found within Joshua Tree National Park. Starting on relatively flat terrain, the route climbs in elevation as it makes its way through the craggy environment of the highlands before providing you with spectacular views of the region.
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Lucky Boy Vista Trail To Elton Mine Trail
The Lucky Boy Vista Trail to Elton Mine Trail is a family-friendly route within Joshua Tree National Park. Being a lightly trafficked route, the Lucky Boy Vista Trail to Elton Mine Trail offers a feeling of seclusion not often found on shorter hikes within the park.
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Twin Tanks Hike
The Twin Tanks Hike is an excellent route to see birds, jackrabbits, lizards and other regional wildlife. The route also passes a number of uniquely beautiful rock formations that are perfect for photo opportunities. Take your time, and enjoy the stunning views.
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Big Pine Trail
The Big Pine Trail is an easily accessible route near the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. Fairly long, but without being too challenging, the Big Pine Trail hike is ideal for intermediate hikers who are interested in wildlife viewing, and appreciating wildflowers and other desert vegetation.
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Wall Street Mill and Wonderland Wash Loop
The Wall Street Mill and Wonderland Wash Loop is a family-friendly route with no shortage of things to see. The route boasts a number of caves and other interesting rock formations along its duration that are perfect for exploring. The Wall Street Mill and Wonderland Wash Loop will also take you by several abandoned historic sites.
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Lost Horse Mine Trail
The Lost Horse Mine Trail is a moderately difficult route that takes you to the remnants of an abandoned mining site. Here, historical mining artifacts can be observed and learned about through one of the many interpretive signs in the area. Keep your eyes on the sky during your hike, as the Lost Horse Mine Trail is known as a great bird watching location!
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Skull Rock Discovery Trail
A leisurely route, the Skull Rock Discovery trail is ideal for those seeking a family-friendly experience. The trail winds its way though some of the most picturesque rock formations within Joshua Tree National Park, and so make sure you bring your camera with you!
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North View and Maze Trail
The North View and Maze Trail takes you through a variety of landscapes with different, and often contrasting scenery. Beginning in the open desert, the route will wind its way through magnificent boulder gardens before traversing the craggy environment of the highlands. Keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of wildlife found throughout the area!
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North Trail and North Canyon Trail
The North Trail and North Canyon Trail takes you through a number of stunning environments characteristic of Joshua Tree National Park. The route begins by traversing the open desert before winding its way through a stunning canyon section. A lightly trafficked route, it is unlikely you will see many others on the North Trail and North Canyon Trail.
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Crest View Trail
Boasting some of the best views of the Joshua Tree National Park wilderness, the Crest View Trail is an incredible route that will not leave you disappointed. While the scenery found on the Crest View Trail is stunning, the route is not physically demanding, and is therefore appropriate for families and those seeking a more casual hiking experience.
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Canyon View Trail
The Canyon View Trail is an excellent choice for intermediate hikers. Traversing the Joshua Tree National Park landscape, the Canyon View Trail boasts a wide variety of cacti, wildflowers and other desert vegetation. The route is also excellent for bird watching and appreciating the unique geology of Joshua Tree National Park.
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Stubby Springs Trail
The Stubby Springs Trail is ideal for hikers seeking a more secluded route, as it is less trafficked then many others within Joshua Tree National Park. A longer route, the Stubby Springs Trail possesses an abundance of varieties of cacti, wildflowers, and other desert vegetation.
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Crown Prince Lookout Trail
The Crown Prince Lookout Trail begins by traversing relatively flat terrain before arriving at two large and distinct boulder piles. You can choose to admire the boulder piles from the ground or choose to attempt the slight scramble to the top where stunning views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed.
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Short Loop and Fault Line Trail
The Short Loop and Fault Line Trail is a scenic route in Joshua Tree National Park. Alongside its path, cacti, wildflowers and other charming desert vegetation grow in abundance. Unique geological formations are also visible throughout the Short Loop and Fault Line Trail as the route meanders its way through the craggy environment of the highlands.
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Burnt Hill Trail
A moderately difficult hike, the Burnt Hill Trail is perfect for the beginner hiker who is looking for a bit more of a challenge. The route is both not too long, and inclines in elevation steadily for the most part, making it a good stepping stone to more challenging hikes within Joshua Tree National Park. Wildlife along the route is also abundant.
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Barker Dam Nature Trail
Relatively short and with little elevation gain, the Barker Dam Nature Trail is a family-friendly hike that offers great views of the surrounding area. During the hike, numerous interpretive signs can be found to help educate you on the rock formations, desert vegetation, and wildlife found throughout the hike's duration.
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Quail Mountain Via Juniper Flats Trail
Considered a harder route, the Quail Mountain via Juniper Flats Trail is ideal for those looking for more of a challenge. Longer, and with more elevation gain than many trails within Joshua Tree National Park, the Juniper Flats Hike is less trafficked, and offers a feeling of seclusion. The effort of completing the hike is well worth it, as Quail Mountain itself offers breathtaking panoramic views.
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Black Rock Canyon to Panorama Loop Trail
The Black Rock Canyon to Panorama Loop Trail is an excellent hike that is medium in length, and provides lots of opportunities for wildlife and desert wildflower viewing. Easily accessible, the Black Rock Canyon to Panorama Loop Trail is ideal for those with older children who are looking for a bit more of a challenge then found in many of the shorter hikes in Joshua Tree National Park.