For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Joshua Tree offers some of the most unique and picturesque hiking experiences in the country. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging trek, here are the five best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park.
1. Hidden Valley Trail
A great option for beginners or those looking for a shorter hike, Hidden Valley Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes you through a beautiful, enclosed valley. Surrounded by towering rock formations, it’s a great introduction to the park’s stunning landscape.
2. Ryan Mountain Trail
If you’re up for a challenge, the Ryan Mountain Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the park. Climbing 1,000 feet in elevation, it’s a steep trek, but the summit offers some of the best vistas in Joshua Tree.
3. Barker Dam Trail
A family-friendly hike with a mix of history and nature, the Barker Dam Trail is a 1.1-mile loop that takes you to a historic water reservoir built by cattle ranchers. The trail is easy, and it’s also a good spot to see some wildlife, including birds and bighorn sheep.
4. Lost Horse Mine Trail
For history buffs, this 4-mile round-trip hike takes you to one of the best-preserved gold mines in the park. The Lost Horse Mine was one of the most successful mining operations in the area, and the trail offers both a peek into the past and some great desert views.
5. Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
For a unique experience, the Cholla Cactus Garden Trail is a must-visit. This easy, 0.25-mile loop takes you through a dense area of cholla cacti. It’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset when the light illuminates the spiny plants, creating a magical glow.
Before You Blaze That Trail…
Joshua Tree’s trails offer a chance to connect with one of the most surreal and stunning landscapes in the American Southwest—but the desert doesn’t play around. Before you lace up your boots, remember to pack plenty of water (way more than you think you’ll need), wear sunscreen, and check the forecast—flash flooding can sneak up during certain months. Respect the environment: never touch or climb the Joshua trees (they’re fragile and protected), and don’t feed the wildlife, no matter how photogenic that chipmunk may look. Stay safe, stay aware, and let the desert show you why hiking in Joshua Tree is an experience unlike any other.
