Popular Day Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
Easy to moderate Popular Day Hikes
Scroll down for more info about these amazing Joshua Tree National Park hiking trails! All the trails listed below are well maintained and have signage. If you are looking for something more off the beaten path and more challenging, you’ve come to the right place! Click the button below, and let's get started!
Hidden Valley
Barker Dam
Wall Street Mill
Cap Rock Nature Trail
Ryan Mountain
Pine City
Skull Rock
Split Rock
Arch Rock
Cholla Cactus Garden
Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is a renowned one-mile loop trail within Joshua Tree National Park, known for its massive rock formations and history as a legendary cattle rustlers' hideout. This popular hiking trail attracts outdoor adventurers and rock climbers from around the world. The unique micro-habitat of Hidden Valley supports a diverse range of plants and animals, including Joshua Trees, pinyon, juniper, oak, mesquite, yucca, nolina, and various cacti. Desert pioneer Bill Keys' notch blasting in 1936 remains the primary access point, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history. Nearby campgrounds cater to visitors looking to extend their stay and explore more of Hidden Valley and the park.
Barker dam
The Barker Dam Loop trail in Joshua Tree National Park, is a popular 1.5-mile round trip with minimal elevation gain. This trail passes by Barker Dam, boulder climbing areas, and ancient petroglyphs. It's great for birdwatching near the lake and through brush-covered spots. The dam, also called Big Horn Dam, was built in 1900 by early cattlemen like C. O. Barker and later raised in 1949 by rancher William F. Keys. Situated between Queen Valley and the Wonderland of Rocks near Wall Street Mill, Barker Dam attracts various desert wildlife, including birds and bighorn sheep. Visitors can easily access the dam via a short loop trail from the parking lot on Barker Dam Road. Nearby, there are Native American petroglyphs and rock climbing opportunities.
Wall Street Mill
Explore the historic Wall Street Mill during a leisurely two-mile round trip hike. This trail leads to an ancient mill used for processing gold from nearby mining ventures. At the conclusion of the hike, visitors can marvel at the intact homestead and mill, accompanied by a scattering of vintage rusted cars. Preserve the allure of the site by refraining from disturbing any artifacts for the enjoyment of future visitors.
The trailhead is conveniently situated just east of the Barker Dam region, accessible from a dirt parking lot off Queen Valley Road. Expect minimal shade and limited cell service along the trail. Stay informed of the weather conditions before heading out on your hike, and adjust plans accordingly if conditions are harsh. Before setting off on the Wall Street Mill hike, ensure to notify a trusted individual of your intended destination and expected departure time.
Cap Rock Nature Trail
Cap Rock Nature Trail is a scenic 0.4-mile loop trail within Joshua Tree National Park. This trail features gentle terrain, making it suitable for all skill levels. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Joshua tree woodland as you meander amidst stunning monzogranite rock formations. Witness various plant species thriving in unique microhabitats, such as shady boulder crevices and diverse desert shrubs.
Cap Rock, a renowned rock formation in the heart of the park, is conveniently situated near the north end of Keys View Road close to Park Boulevard. Easily accessible, Cap Rock also boasts a picnic area complete with grills for a delightful outdoor experience. Embark on the Cap Rock Nature Trail for a brief exploration of the surrounding rock formations, enhanced by informative interpretive signs along the way.
The trail surface consists of flat dirt and gravel, ensuring a pleasant and leisurely walk for visitors. Experience the natural wonders of Cap Rock and its captivating surroundings on this charming nature trail excursion.
Ryan Mountain
The Ryan Mountain trail hike in Joshua Tree National Park is a challenging out and back route spanning three miles, boasting an elevation gain of 1,050 feet. Situated in the central area of the park, this popular trail begins with a relatively flat section before ascending swiftly up the mountain, offering hikers magnificent panoramic views of Joshua Tree National Park. The trailhead for Ryan Mountain is conveniently located along Park Boulevard, positioned between Ryan Campground and Sheep Pass Campground. For campers, there is an additional trailhead at Sheep Pass Campground, though parking is exclusive to campers only.
Pine City
Welcome to Pine City Trail in Joshua Tree National Park! This friendly and inviting four-mile out and back trail offers a moderate stroll through a dense stand of pinyon pines and juniper trees, leading to an intriguing old mining site. While marveling at the abundant desert plants, including creosote, Mojave yucca, and diverse cacti, you can also enjoy fun rock formations suitable for all ages to scramble over. Remember, this trail provides no shade or cell service, so ensure you check the weather forecast before hiking to Pine City. Safety is key - inform a buddy of your hiking plans and expected return time. Access the trailhead conveniently at the end of Desert Queen Mine Road. Happy hiking!
Skull Rock
The Skull Rock hiking trail in Joshua Tree National Park offers a great experience for visitors seeking an up-close encounter with the unique granitic rock formations in the Jumbo Rocks area. This trail winds through expansive granite boulder fields, washes, and the picturesque Jumbo Rocks Campground, providing hikers with a scenic journey amidst stunning natural landscapes.
One of the main highlights of this trail is the iconic Skull Rock, a large boulder that strikingly resembles a skull with cavities resembling eye and nose sockets. Starting from the Skull Rock Parking Area, hikers can walk on a memorable clockwise loop trail that leads them past this fascinating rock formation and through the campground to Park Boulevard. The trail offers a mix of sandy paths and occasional hard rock surfaces, making for a varied and engaging hiking experience.
For those looking to extend their hike, the Discovery Trail provides a connection to the Split Rock Loop, offering approximately 5-6 miles of additional hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether embarking on a short hike to explore Skull Rock or opting for a longer adventure along interconnected trails, the Skull Rock hiking trail promises a memorable and rewarding experience in Joshua Tree National Park.
Split Rock
The Split Rock Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a 2.5-mile loop hike featuring 150 feet of elevation gain. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of distinctive rock formations, the jumbo rocks area, and expansive desert landscapes. A notable highlight is the opportunity to explore a short spur trail leading to Face Rock. Split Rock, the trail's namesake, is conveniently situated at the trailhead for easy viewing. Picnic tables near the trailhead offer a picturesque spot for a meal. Be mindful that some segments of the trail may be challenging to navigate, especially where they intersect with washes and social trails. Watch for trail markers and utilize the app's offline map feature to stay on course. Due to limited shade, it is advisable to avoid hiking during the intense summer heat. Ensure you pack adequate provisions of food, water, and sun protection for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Arch Rock
The Arch Rock Trail, located near Pinto Basin Road at the Arch Rock and Twin Tanks Trailhead, is a 1.4-mile loop boasting a 100 ft elevation gain that culminates at the renowned Arch Rock formation. This family-friendly trail offers a captivating exploration of Joshua Tree's distinctive geological wonders, with sights such as Arch Rock, Whale Rock, and a side trip to Heart Rock. Popular among photographers and rock scramblers, the trail encourages spotting resemblances of shapes and animals in various rock formations along the way. Be advised that parking can be challenging due to the trail's popularity, so early arrival is recommended on busy days. Remember to use the crosswalk when crossing the road and always bring sufficient water, food, and sun protection. The trailhead also grants access to the California Riding and Hiking Trail, catering to longer hikes and wilderness backpacking experiences.
Cholla Cactus Garden
Stroll through the Cholla Cactus Garden along a flat 0.25-mile loop trail. Hike through thousands of teddy bear cholla cactus and enjoy scenic mountain views. The Cholla Cactus Garden is in the Pinto Basin, part of the transition zone between the Colorado and Mojave Deserts.
Cholla are concentrated here because of the right conditions for these plants to thrive and multiply. They mainly reproduce when detached stems root into the ground to grow a new plant. These separate stems are often too heavy for the wind to carry, so the colony grows in this area or "garden."
The Cholla Cactus Garden is a unique experience during a visit year-round. It is a great place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. If you visit in the spring, you will see the yellow/green blooms.
Tread cautiously around these cacti because they are commonly called "jumping" cholla. The cholla segments can break off and attach to people and animals with sharp spines. Wear closed-toed shoes on this trail to protect your feet. Stay on the designated trail to protect this delicate ecological area.