Hikes/United States/California/Joshua Tree National Park

Ryan Ranch Trail

Difficulty
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Very 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.
2.4 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.
41 m
User Ratings
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Fairly short but packed with character, the Ryan Ranch Trail is a must-do in Joshua Tree National Park for those who love history. The trail leads you through the remnants of an old ranch, where various ruins can be found. Along with its historical significance, the route is also an excellent place to see a variety of wildlife and desert vegetation.

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Route Description for Ryan Ranch Trail

Perfect for those interested in history, the Ryan Ranch Trail is easily accessible and appropriate for all skill levels. Please ensure that you are respectful of any ruins or artifacts that you encounter, and that you are careful not to remove or damage any artifacts you may come across.

Having arrived at the trailhead, make your way down Ryan Ranch Trail in a southeastern direction. After a few hundred feet, you will arrive at a junction where you can choose to turn right or continue straight. The Ryan Ranch Trail can be completed going either direction, but staying straight is recommended as it is shorter, and more of the ranch ruins can be seen this way.

After following the trail another few hundred feet, you will arrive at another junction. If you want to see the majority of the ranch ruins, turn left, walk a short distance, and the ruins should be visible. After you have explored and had the opportunity to take some photos, backtrack your way onto Ryan Ranch Trail and continue walking along the circuit in a northerly direction. You will soon arrive at Park Boulevard road, where you will carefully walk south down the shoulder of the road, towards the parking lot you left your vehicle at.

Getting to the Ryan Ranch Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Ryan Ranch Trail can be found at the parking lot with the same name. The parking lot is located off one of the main roads within Joshua Tree National Park—Park Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Ryan Mountain Campground

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Ryan Ranch Trail Elevation Graph

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