Short Loop and Fault Line Trail
![](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-5-2560x633-1.jpg)
Table of contents
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.
Route Description for Short Loop and Fault Line Trail
The Short Loop and Fault Line Trail is within the desert environment of Joshua Tree National Park, so it is important that you prepare yourself for the desert conditions before attempting. Make sure you bring enough water with you, and that you wear both sunscreen and a hat. We also recommend doing the hike either earlier in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
Having arrived at the trailhead, take the California Riding and Hiking Trail south until you reach a junction in the trail. At the junction, continue south along the Black Rock Canyon Trail. With craggy terrain to your east, the route will incline in elevation steadily as it veers to the east. Continuing along the trail east, the elevation incline will become steeper as you reach a second junction within the trail.
At the junction, stay on Black Rock Canyon Trail by taking the eastern route. The trail will then veer sharply to the north and across a stream that may or may not have water in it, depending on the time of year. Once you have passed the stream, the elevation will begin to decline as the trail turns to the west. Follow the trail heading west all the way to the next junction, where taking the northern route will deliver you to the trailhead.
Getting to the Short Loop and Fault Line Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Short Loop and Fault Line Trail is located off of Campground Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
When to do:
Year Round
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Lollipop
Short Loop and Fault Line Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
![Joshua Tree West Side Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-5-2560x633-1.jpg)
Joshua Tree West Side Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Eureka Peak Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Eureka Peak Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Black Rock Canyon to Panorama Loop Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-5-2560x633-1.jpg)
Black Rock Canyon to Panorama Loop Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Black Rock Canyon Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-4-2560x633-1.jpg)
Black Rock Canyon Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Panorama Trail and Big Foot Walk](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-3-2560x633-1.jpg)
Panorama Trail and Big Foot Walk
Joshua Tree National Park
![Burnt Hill Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Burnt Hill Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Canyon View Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-2-2560x633-1.jpg)
Canyon View Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Crest View Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Crest View Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![North Trail and North Canyon Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-5-2560x633-1.jpg)
North Trail and North Canyon Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
![Warren Peak](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/USA-CA-Joshua-Tree-Warren-Peak-1920x480.jpg)
Warren Peak
Joshua Tree National Park
![High View Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/USA-CA-Joshua-Tree-High-View-Trail-1920x480.jpg)
High View Trail
Joshua Tree National Park