13 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park (Maps and Tips)

Joshua Tree National Park is a dream destination for hikers, offering unique desert landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else!

The park is named after the quirky, twisted Joshua trees that dot the area, giving it a truly otherworldly vibe.

Whether you’re into easy nature walks or more challenging treks, you will find a hike that is just right for you!  In this post, we’ll take you through some of the best hikes Joshua Tree has to offer, starting with the iconic Cholla Cactus Garden!

Map of Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park 

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The Cholla Cactus Garden is a short, easy walk that takes you through an incredible patch of desert filled with thousands of “teddy bear” cholla cacti.

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: 20 miles (32 km) north of Cottonwood Visitor Center
• Distance: 0.25 – 0.3 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Super easy, almost no elevation
• Time: 10-30 minutes
• Best time to visit: Year-round (March-April for blooming cacti)

Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree

The Cholla Cactus Garden is like stepping into a sea of cacti. The plants are dense and create an nusual and beautiful sight. The spines of the cholla glow in the sunlight, especially at sunrise or sunset, making it a photographer’s dream.

If you visit in the spring, you’ll catch the cholla in bloom, with beautiful flowers that add extra color to the already fascinating landscape.

Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• The cholla has a notorious reputation for “jumping” onto those who get too close. This happens because the plant’s spines are barbed, and even a light brush can cause parts of the cactus to detach and attach to skin or clothing.
• Despite the harsh desert environment, this area is home to some wildlife. While hiking, you may spot desert animals like lizards or birds, such as the cactus wren, which often nest in the cholla. But always be cautious of bees, which are known to swarm around these cacti.
• The garden is especially magical at sunrise and sunset when the spines of the cholla glow golden in the soft light. These are the best times for both photography and comfortable temperatures.
• These cacti reproduce by dropping pieces of themselves, which then root and grow into new plants. This method of reproduction can make large clusters of cholla in the garden genetically identical, forming what might essentially be one plant.

Cholla Cactus in Joshua Tree

PRO TIPS: 

• Cholla cacti have sharp spines that can easily stick to you if you’re not careful. It’s best to wear closed shoes and avoid brushing up against them.
• This trail is exposed to the sun, and there’s no cell service in the area. Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months. It’s best to go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
• Pets aren’t allowed on this trail to help preserve the delicate environment, but service animals are okay.

Keys View is one of the most popular and accessible viewpoints in Joshua Tree National Park.

Sitting at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, this lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and distant mountain ranges, including Mount San Jacinto and Mount San Gorgonio.

On especially clear days, you can even see the Salton Sea and the mountains in Mexico.

Road to Keys View in Joshua Tree 

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Keys View
• Distance: Less than 0.25 miles (a short walk from the parking lot)
• Difficulty: Easy, paved path
• Elevation: Approximately 5,185 feet
• Duration: 5-10 minutes to explore the viewpoint area

View from Keys View in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The panoramic vista spans across the Coachella Valley and beyond and offers unmatched views of the desert landscape.
• You can see the famous San Andreas Fault stretching across the valley below.
• The viewpoint is named after William Keys, a local rancher and miner who played a significant role in the development of Joshua Tree.

View from Keys View in Joshua Tree

PRO TIP: 

• The viewpoint is particularly popular for sunrise and sunset views. The parking area holds about 50 cars and can fill up fast during that time. If you are planning to see sunrise or sunset at this location, make sure to arrive early to secure a spot!

Cap Rock Nature Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike located near Keys View Road. It is known for its impressive boulder formations and diverse desert plant life.

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Cap Rock parking area, at the junction of Park Boulevard and Keys View Road
• Distance: 0.4-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy, flat trail with minimal elevation
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~50 feet)
• Duration: 15-30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially in spring for wildflower blooms

Cap Rock in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• Cap Rock is named after the massive rock sitting atop other boulders, forming a natural cap-like structure.
• Along the trail, you’ll encounter Joshua trees, creosote bushes, and pinyon pines.
• The trail features interpretive signs that offer insights into the area’s geology, plant life, and animal species.

The Hall of Horrors is a well-known rock formation and climbing area famous for its impressive granite boulders and unique geological features.

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Park in the lot for the Hall of Horrors area, which is located on Park Boulevard
• Distance: Approximately 0.6 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the scrambling involved
• Elevation Gain: Around 100 feet
• Duration: Typically takes 30-60 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring are ideal for cooler hiking conditions.

Hall of Horrors Trail in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• The area features dramatic rock structures that create a maze-like environment, perfect for exploration and photography.
• Known for its climbing routes, the Hall of Horrors offers challenges for climbers of all skill levels. The granite quality is highly regarded among the climbing community.
• The narrow slots and corridors between the boulders add an element of adventure for those willing to explore off the beaten path.

Hidden Valley is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its stunning rock formations and unique desert landscape.

Hidden Valley Trail is an easy and short trail that is perfect for hikers of all skill levels!

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Hidden Valley picnic area
• Distance: 1 mile (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~100 feet)
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring, when temperatures are more comfortable for hiking.

Climber in Hidden Valley

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Hidden Valley is a renowned climbing spot, featuring over 100 climbing routes, ranging from beginner to expert levels.
• The valley’s geology creates a unique microclimate, allowing for a variety of plant and animal life that may not be found elsewhere in the park.
• The valley was historically used by cattle rustlers and has remnants of the past that add an element of intrigue to the hike.

Barker Dam Nature Trail is a scenic and easy loop hike that will give you a chance to explore a historic dam and enjoy different rock formations and desert plants.

Barker Dam in Joshua Tree

Trail Stats:

• Trailhead: Barker Dam parking area
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~50 feet)
• Duration: Approximately 30-60 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for milder temperatures.

Barker Dam in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The dam was built in the early 1900s to provide water for cattle and has historical significance in the park. You can see the remains of the dam and learn about its construction.
• After rain, the area may have water, attracting various birds and wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.​
• The trail features petroglyphs created by Native Americans, providing a glimpse into the area’s cultural history.
• The combination of the dam, surrounding boulders, and desert landscape offers excellent photography opportunities, particularly at sunrise and sunset.

Skull Rock Trail is a short yet iconic loop hike in Joshua Tree National Park, known for its striking rock formations that resemble a skull.

Skull Rock Trail in Joshua Tree

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Skull Rock parking area just east of Jumbo Rocks Campground; also accessible from within Jumbo Rocks Campground
• Distance: 1.7 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~100 feet)
• Duration: Approximately 30-60 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for cooler temperatures.

Skull Rock in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: The trail’s namesake rock formation is a must-see, as it truly resembles a skull. You can climb on and around the rock for fun photo opportunities.

Arch Rock Nature Trail is a scenic and easy loop hike in Joshua Tree National Park, famous for its stunning rock formations, including the iconic Arch Rock and the lesser-known Heart Rock.

This short trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels, making it a great family-friendly option!

Arch Rock in Joshua Tree

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Twin Tanks Parking lot aka the Arch Rock Trailhead
• Distance: 0.5 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~40 feet)
• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for cooler temperatures.

Arch Rock in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• The main feature of the trail, Arch Rock is a natural rock arch formed through erosion, providing excellent photo opportunities!
• Just a short distance from Arch Rock, Heart Rock is a charming formation that resembles a heart.
• The trail includes informative signs that educate about the geology and ecology of the area.

Arch Rock in Joshua Tree

The Split Rock Loop Trail is a popular and relatively easy hike in Joshua Tree National Park.

This loop trail offers a chance to explore the unique geological features of the park.

Hike Stats: 

• Trailhead: Split Rock picnic area
• Distance: 2 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 100 feet
• Duration: About 1 to 1.5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring, when temperatures are milder.

Split Rock in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• The trail’s namesake, Split Rock, is a massive granite boulder that appears to be cleaved in half.
• Hikers can enjoy various desert plants, including Joshua trees, ocotillos, and various cacti. The area is also home to wildlife such as lizards, rabbits, and a variety of birds​.
• The granite boulders along the trail are the result of millions of years of erosion and geological activity.

Wall Street Mill Trail is a great hiking destination in Joshua Tree National Park, offering a glimpse into the area’s mining history.

This easy trail features historical remnants from the early 20th century, including the old mill, a rusted truck, and various mining equipment.

Wall Street Mill in Joshua Tree

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: The Wall Street Mill Trail can be started from two locations: Barker Dam Nature Trailhead and Wall Street Mill Trailhead
• Distance: 2 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (~100 feet)
• Duration: Approximately 1-1.5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for milder temperatures.

Wall Street Mill in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The trail leads to the remains of a gold processing mill built in 1932, which was used to process ore from nearby mines.
• Along the trail, you’ll find remnants of mining equipment and an old truck.

Mastodon Peak Loop Trail is a moderately challenging hike in Joshua Tree National Park that offers stunning views!

This trail will take you through diverse terrain, including rocky outcrops, Joshua tree forests, and panoramic vistas.

Mastodon Peak Loop Trail in Joshua Tree

Hike Stats: 

• Trailhead: Cottonwood Spring parking area
• Distance: 3 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 300 feet
• Duration: About 2-3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for cooler temperatures.

Mastodon Peak Loop Trail in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• The trail features a prominent peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
• Along the way, you’ll encounter remnants of old mining operations, providing insight into the region’s historical significance.

Mastodon Peak Loop Trail in Joshua Tree

Ryan Mountain Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, offering stunning views and a rewarding challenge for hikers.

The trail leads you to the summit of Ryan Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert landscape and unique rock formations.

It’s a moderately strenuous hike, perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the park while getting some exercise.

Ryan Mountian Trail in Joshua Tree

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Parking area between Sheep Pass and Ryan Campground
• Distance: 3 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,000 feet
• Duration: About 2-3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring for cooler temperatures; early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the heat.

Ryan Mountain Trail in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The top of Ryan Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Coachella Valley, the Salton Sea, and the San Andreas Fault.
• The trail passes through diverse habitats, including Joshua tree forests and desert scrub.
• Ryan Mountain is part of the San Bernardino Mountains and is composed of ancient granite. The mountain’s summit is one of the highest points in the park.

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail offers a unique hiking experience in Joshua Tree National Park, leading you to a hidden oasis nestled within the desert landscape.

This moderate trail showcases lush palm trees, providing a refreshing contrast to the surrounding arid environment.

Hike Stats:

• Trailhead: Fortynine Palms parking area, accessed off Highway 62
• Distance: 3 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 300 feet
• Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon in the cooler months, particularly fall and spring.

Fortynine Palm Oasis in Joshua Tree

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The oasis is fed by an underground water source, providing a crucial habitat for the palm trees and wildlife in the area. It’s a unique ecological feature in the otherwise dry desert.