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    Pinto Mountain Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    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.
    6-8h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    20.8 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.
    768 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Pinto Mountain Trail is a secluded and physically demanding route that should only be attempted by experienced hikers. While challenging, the Pinto Mountain summit is an incredibly scenic lookout point that provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Joshua Tree National Park landscape. In addition to the views, opportunities for wildlife viewing are also plentiful.

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    Route Description for Pinto Mountain Trail

    The first few miles of the Pinto Mountain Trail are deceiving, as they are relatively flat and not representative of what is to come. The Pinto Mountain Trail is a physically demanding route that is both long and incredibly steep at some points. The Pinto Mountain Trail should only be attempted by experienced hikers whose skills and equipment are sufficient enough for the challenge.

    Having left your vehicle at the side of the road, make your way northwest across the flat terrain, and towards the mountains in the foreground. Soon, you will cross a number of streams that may or may not have water in them. Having crossed the streams, the elevation will slowly start to incline as you approach Pinto Mountain.

    Making your way alongside the base of the mountain, you will follow a stream north towards a saddle on the western side of the mountain. Having reached the saddle, you will begin to follow it up towards the summit. Here, the terrain becomes incredibly steep, so take your time and watch your footing as an untimely fall here could be dangerous. After some difficult climbing, you will eventually reach the peak of Pinto Mountain where panoramic views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed.

    After enjoying the sublime views, the section of the circuit that will return you to your waiting vehicle is located on the southern saddle of the mountain. Follow this saddle south down the steep terrain, until it plateaus at the base of the mountain. From here, continue south towards Pinto Basin Road.

    Getting to the Pinto Mountain Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for Pinto Mountain Trail is located on the side of Pinto Basin Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      February-May

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      None

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Pinto Mountain Trail Elevation Graph

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    Pinto Mountain Trail Reviews

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