Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a hiker’s dream. This surreal desert landscape—where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet—is filled with twisting Joshua trees, towering granite monoliths, palm oases, and expansive desert vistas. The park offers trails for every skill level, from short nature walks to strenuous summit climbs, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you're a beginner looking for scenic strolls or an experienced hiker eager to explore the backcountry, here are the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park.

1. Hidden Valley Trail

Distance: 1 mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Location: Near Hidden Valley Picnic Area

This short but scenic loop offers a perfect introduction to the park’s unique environment. Hidden Valley is encircled by massive boulders and features interpretive signs that explain the flora, fauna, and rumored history of cattle rustlers hiding here. Ideal for families and first-time visitors.

2. Ryan Mountain Trail

Distance: 3 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Location: Between Keys View Road and Park Boulevard

One of the most popular summit hikes in the park, Ryan Mountain rises to 5,457 feet. The trail climbs steadily, offering stunning panoramic views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains, Queen Valley, and Lost Horse Valley. Go early or late to avoid the midday sun.

3. Barker Dam Loop Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Location: Barker Dam Road

This short hike winds through beautiful rock formations and desert terrain to a small, seasonal reservoir built by early cattle ranchers. The area is a great spot for birdwatching, and you might even spot bighorn sheep. Look for petroglyphs near the dam.

4. Hidden Valley to Barker Dam Loop

Distance: Approximately 2.7 miles loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Combines the scenic beauty of Hidden Valley with the historic features of Barker Dam, offering a diverse hiking experience.

5. Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail

Distance: 4 miles round trip (loop option: 6.5 miles)

Difficulty: Moderate

Location: Keys View Road

This trail leads to the Lost Horse Mine, one of the best-preserved gold mines in the park. Along the way, you’ll walk through a Joshua tree-studded landscape with sweeping views. The mine structure is fenced off but still an impressive historical site to behold.

Lost Horse Mine

6. Arch Rock Nature Trail

Distance: 0.3 miles (or 1.2-mile loop from Twin Tanks)

Difficulty: Easy

Location: White Tank Campground

A favorite for photographers, this short walk leads to Arch Rock, a stunning natural granite arch. The trail winds through a landscape of enormous boulders, ideal for kids and casual hikers. Go at sunset or under a full moon for a magical experience.

Arch Rock Nature Trail

7. Mastodon Peak Loop Trail

Distance: 2.4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Location: Cottonwood Spring area

Located in the southern Colorado Desert section of the park, this loop features views of the Salton Sea, the Mastodon Mine, and a short scramble up Mastodon Peak for panoramic desert views.

Mastodon Peak

Mastodon Peak

Mastodon Peak

8. Lost Palms Oasis Trail

Distance: Approximately 7.2 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Highlights: Palm oasis surrounded by rugged desert terrain, wildlife sightings, and seasonal wildflowers.

9. Boy Scout Trail to Willow Hole

Distance: Approximately 7.5 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Highlights: Remote wilderness experience, lush vegetation at Willow Hole, and opportunities for solitude.

10. 49 Palms Oasis Trail

Distance: 3 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Location: North of the park, off Highway 62 near Twentynine Palms

This out-and-back trail takes you through rugged hills to a lush oasis filled with California fan palms. It’s one of the few hikes that leads to perennial water, making it a great place to spot birds and desert wildlife.

11. Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail

Distance: 0.25-mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Location: Pinto Basin Road

A boardwalk-style trail through a dense forest of Teddy Bear Cholla cacti, this is one of the most unique hikes in the park. Visit in the early morning or at golden hour for the best lighting and to avoid the midday heat.