North Trail and North Canyon Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.8 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.
181 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

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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Route Description for North Trail and North Canyon Trail

As the North Trail and North Canyon Trail is within the desert environment of Joshua Tree National Park, it is important that you prepare yourself for the desert conditions prior to attempting. We recommend bringing lots of water, and wearing sunscreen and a good hat to help protect you from the effects of the sun.

Having arrived at the trailhead, take the Northside Trail east past the first trail junction. After a few hundred feet, you will arrive at a second junction, where you will follow the southern route. Continuing on the southern route, the Northside Trail will pass some mountainous terrain to the south before arriving at another trail junction. At the junction, follow the Northside Trail to the north alongside a stream bed that may or may not have water in it depending on the time of year.

As the route heads north, it will incline in elevation before making its way through a stunning canyon. After the canyon, you have the option of either following the stream through another canyon and then backtracking towards the Northside Trail, or continuing on along the Northside Trail to the northwest. Whatever you choose to do, the Northside Trail will eventually veer to the southwest, completing the circuit and delivering you to the trailhead.

Getting to the North Trail and North Canyon Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the North Trail and North Canyon Trail is located at a parking lot off of Park Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

North Trail and North Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

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North Trail and North Canyon Trail Reviews

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