Cholla Cactus Garden Trail will be closed daily from December 2024 - April 29th, 2025, to improve the conditions of the loop trail.

Cholla Cactus Garden Closure

Some third-party hiking apps are providing inaccurate trail and safety information to users. Please use the official NPS app for accurate information.

Inaccurate Third-Party Apps

Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!

7-day vehicle permit, admitting the passengers of a single, non-commercial vehicle on the day of purchase and for the next six days.

Entrance - Private Vehicle

Entrance - Motorcycle

7-day entrance fee, per person on foot or bike.

Entrance - Per Person

This pass is valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. It covers the entrance fee to Joshua Tree National Park for the pass signee and accompanying passengers entering in a single, non-commercial vehicle. Joshua Tree Annual Passes are available at park entrance stations and visitor centers.

Annual Entrance - Park

The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.

Quail Springs Area at Sunset

Hidden Valley Hiker

an historic wood house seen through the missing windshield of an old, rusty vehicle

Historic Keys Ranch

Joshua trees grow on a flat plain with boulder outcrops and mountains in the distance

Lost Horse Valley

a little girl smiles while wearing a Jr. Ranger hat and badge

Joshua Tree Junior Ranger

a fiery sky behind the silhouette of a Joshua tree

Joshua Tree Sunset

people climbing on boulders are silhouetted against a colorful sunset sky

Jumbo Rocks at Sunset

night scene showing stars of the Milky Way over a sign saying "Entering Joshua Tree National Park"

Stars Over the Park Entrance

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring wildflower season, and diminishes during the heat of summer. Some areas of the park are designated for day use only. Visitor centers keep separate hours; please see descriptions.

Joshua Tree National Park

Hiking

Hikers on a dirt trail going between Joshua trees and shrubs heading towards a rock formation.

Hiking the Boy Scout Trail

Explore the Wonderland of Rocks on the Boy Scout Trail. The Boy Scout Trail is 8 miles, but many hikers complete shorter sections of the trail and turn around early. Hikes of any length can be a great way to experience the Wonderland of Rocks along the Boy Scout Trail. Start from the Keys West Wilderness Backpacking Board along Park Boulevard and enjoy a hike for as long as you would like. This trail has little shade and unreliable cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Use caution if hiking in the summer, the temperature regularly exceeds 100°F (38°C). If hiking in the summer take plenty of water. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am, turn around well before they are tired,and avoid hiking during the middle of the day.

Explore the Wonderland of Rocks on the Boy Scout Trail.

This trail is open at night, but only experienced hikers with good navigation skills should night hike in the park. Always remain on the trail, have a safety buddy, and don't hike beyond your limits. 

Hike Boy Scout Trail

Scenic Views

Trails

A person walking a sidewalk next to a fence in front of chollas with the sun setting over mountains.

Cholla Cactus Garden at Sunset

Note: Cholla Cactus Garden will be closed December 2024 - April 2025  to improve the conditions of the loop trail. Cholla Cactus Garden is an easy quarter mile walk with minimal elevation gain along Pinto Basin Road. This walk meanders through a dense patch of teddy bear cholla on the edge of the Pinto Basin and provides views of the basin and surrounding mountains. Even though this is a short and easy hike, it is strongly recommended to wear closed shoes for protection from the cholla. This trail has no shade and no cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 10 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

An easy quarter mile hike through a cholla patch along Pinto Basin Road.

Hike Cholla Cactus Garden

A dirt trail between split rail fences with three hikers in the distance heading towards mountains.

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trailhead

The Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is a difficult three mile out and back hike with 300 feet of elevation gain in each direction. Located on the northern edge of the park off Highway 62 on Canyon Road, this trail climbs over a ridge and into a desert canyon and oasis. Hikers are rewarded with scenic views, abundant plant life, and the potential to see wildlife. This oasis is a sensitive biological area, please follow posted signs and do not enter the oasis as this is a crucial water supply for plant and wildlife. This trail has no shade and no cell service.  Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail. Pets can be walked around the Oasis of Mara path in the town of Twentynine Palms. 

This hike has little shade and is not recomended during the summer or when it is very hot. Hikers who attempt this trail in the summer should start before 9 am and should bring plenty of water.  This trail may be closed during the summer to help protect bighorn sheep populations.

A difficult three mile hike to a desert oasis.

Hike Fortynine Palms Oasis

Scenic Driving

The time can vary greatly based on the exact route how much you would like to stop, look around, and hike.

A car driving a winding road between Joshua trees with a large rock formations in the background.

Car Along Park Boulevard at Sunset

Driving Park Boulevard can be a great way to see a lot of Joshua Tree National Park in a couple of hours. This drive can be combined with shorts side stops and hikes along the way for longer trips. Park Boulevard will take you by many highlights, rock formations, and Joshua tree groves. Some of the top highlights along Park Boulevard include Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, Ryan Mountain, and Skull Rock. Short detours can also add stops at Keys View and Barker Dam. This basic loop can be done entering from either the north entrance (near Twentynine Palms) or west entrance (near the town of Joshua Tree) and exiting from the other so that the trip both starts and ends from Highway 62 on the north side of the park. To make the drive longer, Park Boulevard can be combined with Pinto Basin Road, entering from either the west entrance or south entrance and exiting from the other. This option will add more of the lower elevation Colorado Desert side to the drive and include the Cholla Cactus Garden and Cottonwood Spring.

Leashed pets are allowed within 100 feet (30.5 m) of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds and are not allowed on trails.

A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park.

Drive Park Boulevard

Roads, Routes and Highways

An easy 1.1 mile hike past Barker Dam.

Three hikers walking along a dirt path running between large boulders.

Barker Dam Hike

The Barker Dam Trail is a relatively flat, 1.1-mile loop through the Mojave Desert. This trail will take you by monzogranite rock formations and boulders, Joshua trees, a wide range of plant life, the Barker Dam, and a rock art site. After periods of heavy rainfall, the Barker Dam reservoir will occasionally fill with water. Otherwise, the reservoir is typically dry most of the year. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about Barker Dam and the plants, animals, and people that call the desert home. The rock art site, a highlight of the trail, tells a story of the desert's human history. Do not climb on or otherwise disturb the rock art and the boulder the rock art lives on. Much of the rock art is not immediately visible and may exist on any portion of the rock, so please refrain from stepping on, climbing on, or touching any part of the rock formation. View the rock art from a respectable distance at the signage for the site.

This hike can be done year round. Summer hikers should be prepared for 100°F temperatures and have at least one liter of water per person.

Enjoy an easy 1.1 mile hike on the Barker Dam Nature Trail.

Hike Barker Dam Trail

Colonization and Settlement

Dams

Ranches

Birdwatching

A map holding binoculars up to his face looking into the distance.

Birding at Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park offers a wide range of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/learn/nature/birds.htm">birds</a> for birders to discover and enjoy. From year-round desert specialists to migrators that only spend part of the year here to transients that pass through the park between their summer and winter habitats, it is possible to find many types of birds throughout the year. Some popular <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/birding.htm">birding </a>locations include the Oasis of Mara, Cottonwood Spring, and Barker Dam. If visiting in the summer, be aware that some water sources may be closed to avoid stressing wildlife. Check the park <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm">website</a> or speak with a ranger at a visitor center for up to date information. Some of the more common year-round resident <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/learn/nature/birds.htm">bird species</a> include the greater roadrunner, phainopepla, mockingbird, verdin, cactus wren, rock wren, mourning dove, Le Conte’s thrasher, and Gambel’s quail. Resident birds of prey include the red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, Cooper’s hawk, and prairie falcon. In winter, you may see the white-crowned sparrow, dark-eyed junco, sage sparrow, cedar waxwing, American robin, and hermit thrush. These birds will remain in the park into March. At about the time the wintering species leave, other species will begin to arrive for the spring and summer nesting season. This group includes species such as Bendire’s thrasher, ash-throated flycatcher, western kingbird, Scott’s oriole, northern oriole, and western bluebird.   <meta charset="utf-8" /> Some of the many transients that pass through the park on their way between their winter and summer ranges include brightly colored warblers such as Wilson’s, black-throated gray, Nashville, MacGillivray’s, yellow, yellow-rumped (a species also here in winter), and orange-crowned. Other transients are black-headed grosbeaks, western tanagers, indigo buntings, and lazuli buntings. In addition to songbirds, the park hosts a migration of birds of prey including sharp-shinned hawks, rough-legged hawks, northern harriers, osprey, and Swainson’s hawks. <meta charset="utf-8" />For more information on birding in Joshua Tree National Park <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/birding.htm">click here</a>.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a wide range of birds for birders to discover.

Birds

Guided Tours

A small amphitheater is surrounded by boulders and desert shrubs.

Evening Program

Relax under the stars in a campground amphitheater while learning about the park's numerous features. Topics vary by ranger and may include wildlife, history, astronomy, and more. Evening programs are occasionally hosted at different campground ampitheaters. Check the schedule on our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/calendar.htm">park calendar</a> for evening programs and specific location details. Schedules vary by season.

Schedule varies by season. Check the park calendar for scheduled programs.

Attend an evening program at Joshua Tree National Park.

Attend an Evening Ranger Program

Animals

Geology

Astronomy

Stargazing

People photographing the night sky over a large rock formation and Joshua trees.

Stargazing at Cap Rock

Enjoy Joshua Tree National Park's amazing night sky.

Stargazing at Joshua Tree

Night Sky

Arts and Culture

An exhibit hall featuring colorful educational exhibits.

Universal Threads Exhibit

Pets are not allowed in the visitor center. Service animals permitted.

Visit the Universal Threads Exhibit and learn about the intertwining relationships between plants, animals, earth, sky, and human life.

Visit the Universal Threads Exhibit

Native American Heritage

Horseback Riding

A group of horseback riders and their horses walk on a wide dirt trail.

Horseback Riding in Joshua Tree

Horseback riding has long been a popular way to access and experience Joshua Tree National Park. Two hundred fifty-three miles of equestrian trails and trail corridors traverse open lands, canyon bottoms, and dry washes throughout the park. Desert ecosystems are fragile and require special care. Desert soils, when disturbed, take years to heal, so it is important for riders to travel on established trails.The lack of available drinking water is both a challenge and a limitation for riders and horses. Care should be taken when planning your trip since stock animals may not use natural or man-made water sources within the park. Designated Trails The Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan provides for 253 miles of equestrian trails and trail corridors that traverse open lands, canyon bottoms, and dry washes. Many riding trails are already open, clearly marked, and ready to be enjoyed. The two most popular areas of the park for equestrian users are Black Rock Canyon and the areas near the West Entrance. For more information and designated equestrian trail maps, please view the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/horseback-riding.htm">Horseback Riding</a> page.

Horses are allowed on designated trails. Other pets, including dogs, are not allowed on any hiking trails in the national park. 

Horseback riding designated trails in Joshua Tree National Park.

Horseback Riding in Joshua Tree National Park

Biking

A person rides a bike down an open dirt road

Biking in Joshua Tree

<h3>Where to Bike Ride</h3> Bike riding in the park is restricted to roads open to vehicles. Bikes are not allowed on trails. There are no bike lanes in the park and most paved roads do not have a shoulder. We recommend only bicycling on the park's <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backcountry-roads.htm">backcountry roads</a> which offer opportunities to explore many areas and have less traffic than the busy paved roads. <h3> Biking Safety</h3> <ul> <li>Carry plenty of water, at least one gallon per person per day—two for extended or uphill trips.</li> <li>Wear a helmet.</li> <li>Ride with caution and watch for bumps, obstacles, wildlife, and potholes.</li> <li>Watch for RVs and trucks with extended side-view mirrors.</li> <li>Wear reflective clothing after dark.</li> </ul> <h3> Biking Campsites</h3> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/ryan-campground.htm">Ryan Campground</a> has 3 sites for bicyclists; campsites 32 A, B, and C. The bicycle campsites are $5 per night and no more than 3 tents and 3 people are permitted per campsite. All sites share one fire pit. Campground rules apply. Ryan Campground is open September through May and closed June through August. Pack in water/food. There is no water at Ryan Campground, so campers will need to get water at the West Entrance station or Oasis Visitor Center. There is no designated bicycle lane throughout the park, so be careful while sharing the road.

Pets are allowed on paved and dirt roads in Joshua Tree National Park.

Biking in Joshua Tree National Park

Backcountry Camping

A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Reservations can be made on recreation.gov.

A hiker walks on a dirt trail between two ocotillo plants.

Hiker on Mastodon Peak Trail

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/eagle-mountains-zone.htm">Eagle Mountains Zone</a> features rugged mountains, rocky canyons, and palm oases. It is among the warmer and lower elevation zones in the park. This region also includes the Southern Coxcombs, an extremely rugged and remote region that can be accessed from CA-177. Due to sensitive resources, camping is not allowed at Lost Palms Oasis, Victory Palms, and most of Munsen Canyon.    Trails: Lost Palms Oasis (7.5 miles one-way)  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit Recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways: 1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online. 2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent. 3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.

Backpack through the Joshua Tree Wilderness in the Eagle Mountains Zone.

Eagle Mountains Zone Backpacking

Wilderness

A landscape filled with hill and mountain peaks topped with desert shrubs.

View from Warren Peak

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/black-rock-zone.htm">Black Rock Zone</a> features a wide variety of hiking trails through mountains, washes, ravines, and valleys. It has great views from the high peaks and ridges and provides habitat for large Joshua trees, pinyon pine, and juniper. With higher elevations of 4,000 - 5,500 feet, this zone offers cooler temperatures than most zones. During the colder months, freezing temperatures are common.  Trails: This zone offers many options for loop hikes. Some of the popular hiking trails include the Panorama Loop (6 miles round-trip), the West Side Loop (5 miles round-trip), Eureka Peak (20 miles round-trip), and California Hiking and Riding Trail (37 miles one-way). Other trails include Burnt Hill, the Canyon View Loop, and the Fault Line trail.  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit Recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.    Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways: 1. Visit Recreation.gov and book a permit online. 2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent. 3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.

Backpack in the Black Rock Zone at Joshua Tree National Park. The Black Rock Zone features a wide variety of hiking trails through mountains, washes, ravines, and valleys.

Black Rock Zone Backpacking

A Jeep turns from one dirt road to another next to a boundary marker.

Jeep on Backcountry Roads

Pets must be leashed and remain within 100 feet (30.5 m) of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. Find additional information on visiting with pets <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/pets.htm">here</a>.

Joshua Tree offers many miles of backcountry dirt roads for four-wheel drive vehicles to explore.

Drive 4x4 Roads

A dirt path surrounded by desert shrubs and one Joshua tree with hills in the background.

Pine City Trail

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The Pine City Zone is a small zone southeast of Queen Mountain. The zone includes open valleys, rugged mountains, and sandy washes cutting through rocky canyons. Elevations range from 4,000 to 4,800 feet. There are a limited number of permits available for this zone due to the popularity of the pine city area and its limited number of campsites. Camping is not allowed near any mining or historical sites. North of the Pine City Zone is the Wonderland of Rocks, a day-use area where overnight camping is not allowed.    Trails: Pine City (1.5 miles one-way)  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways: 1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online. 2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a recreation.gov agent. 3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.

Backpack through the Joshua Tree wilderness in the Pine City Zone.

Pine City Zone Backpacking

Four backpackers hiking down a dirt trail towards rocky outcrops on the horizon.

Backpacking Along the Boy Scout Trail

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/the-boy-scout-trail-zone.htm">Boy Scout Trail Zone</a> encompasses the popular 7.8-mile Boy Scout Trail. Due to its heavy use, backpackers are required to camp in a designated campsite. If you do not have a permit for the Boy Scout Trail Zone, you are allowed to backpack through the zone, but you can not camp in the zone. This zone ranges from ~2800 feet in Indian Cove to ~4000 feet at the Boy Scout backcountry trailhead. It offers sweeping landscape vistas and intimate views of the Wonderland of Rocks, an area filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and boulder piles.    Trails: The Boy Scout Trail and Big Pine Trail.  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways: 1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online. 2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a Recreation.gov agent. 3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.

Experience Joshua Tree National Park's wilderness by backpacking along the Boy Scout Trail.

Boy Scout Trail Zone Backpacking

A sandy trail cutting through a Joshua tree and rock formation covered landscape.

Maze Zone

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The Maze Zone offers a variety of trails to choose from and features sandy washes, rocky ridgetops, and sweeping landscape views. This zone offers multi-day loop options when connecting to trails in the surrounding zones. Elevations range from ~3,000 to 4,200+ feet.    Trails: The North View Loop (4.5 miles), the Maze Loop (5 miles), the Window Loop (1.8 miles), the Big Pine Trail (1.6 miles one-way), the Burro/Rocky View Loop (4.5 miles), and the North Canyon Trail (1.6 miles one-way).  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

Backpack the Joshua Tree wilderness in the Maze Zone.

Maze Zone Backpacking

A landscape filled with scattered Joshua trees, hills, and mountains in the background.

Juniper Flats

With stunning landscapes, scenic vistas, and hundreds of square miles of designated wilderness, Joshua Tree National Park offers outstanding backpacking opportunities. Backpacking is only recommended for those with the proper backcountry skills and gear. Camping is only permitted in specified backcountry zones and designated campgrounds. Camping is not allowed at trailheads, along roadsides, and in day-use areas.   The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/juniper-flats-zone.htm">Juniper Flats Zone</a> features open valleys, mountainous terrain, and panoramic views. It offers higher, cooler elevations ranging from ~4,400 to nearly 5,600 feet. During the colder months, freezing temperatures are common. Overnight camping is not allowed near Stubbe Springs due to sensitive resources.  Trails: The Stubbe Springs Loop (12 miles round-trip) and the California Hiking and Riding Trail.  Permits: A permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. A permit costs $6 and allows for a group size of 1 to 12 people to stay up to 14 nights. Permittees are allowed to stay up to three consecutive nights in an individual zone. Permits may be booked up to 6 months in advance. They can be acquired in one of three ways:    1. Visit recreation.gov and book a permit online.  2. Call 1-877-444-6777 and book a permit through a recreation.gov agent.  3. Visit the permit office at our headquarters located at 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA. It is located in office building 100 near the flag pole. The permit office is open 8 am – 4 pm. In person same-day permits will be available up until 4 pm at the permit office. Permit office hours may be subject to change based on demand and staff availability.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm">Backpacking Webpage</a> for more information on rules and regulations, backcountry zones, and booking a permit.

Juniper Flats Zone Backpacking

A uniformed ranger presents a program about Joshua trees along the Cap Rock Nature trail

Ranger Program

Join a ranger for a 0.4 mile (0.6 km) guided walk! Learn about various topics like plants, animals, geology, cultural history, and more. Topics vary by ranger. Bring water, closed–toe shoes, and layers for this 45–minute walk. Schedule and location may vary. Please check the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/calendar.htm">Park Calendar </a>for the current schedule of ranger programs.

Attend a Ranger Stroll

A dirt trail starting between wooden fences with rocky mountains in the distance.

Indian Cove Trail

The trailhead is located at the west end of the Indian Cove Campground.

The Indian Cove Trail is an easy .6 mile loop with 50 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead located at the west end of the Indian Cove Campground. Interpretive panels are located along the path with information on local plants and their traditional uses by Native Americans. This trail has no shade and unreliable cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Pets are not allowed on this trail but can be hiked around the roads in Indian Cove Campground. 

Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in the summer, it is recommended to take at least one liter of water per person during the summer.

Hike Indian Cove Trail

A hiker looking through a rocky landscape to a valley with mountains in the distance.

Hiker In Hidden Valley

The trailhead is located at the Hidden Valley Picnic Area.

Hidden Valley Trail is an easy one mile hike. The trail starts near the Hidden Valley Picnic Area and gains 100 feet of elevation as it makes a loop around Hidden Valley, which was rumored to have once been used by cattle rustlers. There are interpretive signs along the way providing information on the area and its plants and wildlife. This trail has little shade and no cell service. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Before hiking, tell a safety buddy where you are going and when you plan on leaving the park.

Enjoy an easy one mile hike on Hidden Valley Trail.

Hike Hidden Valley Trail

A viewpoint showing a yucca cactus, desert mountains, and a snowy peak in the background.

A vista along the Hi-View Nature Trail

To access the trailhead, take the road west from the campground entrance (past the horse camp and water tank) to the parking area/trailhead at the end of the road. On busy days when parking is limited, visitors may use the horse camp area as overflow parking. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite. 

The Hi-View Trail is a 1.3-mile loop hike in the Black Rock area. The hike ascends 400 feet of elevation gain and reaches a high point with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Along the trail, you will see large Joshua trees, pinyon pine, and juniper trees. This area of the park tends to be slightly cooler and less busy than other areas of the park.   To access the trailhead, take the road west from the campground entrance (past the horse camp and water tank) to the parking area/trailhead at the end of the road. On busy days when parking is limited, visitors may use the horse camp area as overflow parking. Hikers cannot park in a campsite unless they have reserved that campsite.  Alternatively, hikers can add more mileage to their trek by starting from the parking lot between Black Rock campground sites 20 and 21. This would turn the hike into a “lollipop” loop and be a total of 3 miles.  Bring a good map when hiking in the Black Rock area because many trails crisscross and intersect.  This trail has limited shade and unreliable cell service. Summer hikers should start this trail before 8 am and bring plenty of water. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the park and consider changing plans if the weather conditions are too extreme. Hikers should always tell a safety buddy where they are going and when they plan on leaving the park.

Hike Hi-View Trail

Two people on a paved trail heading towards a clump of fan palms with mountains in the distance.

Nature Trail at Oasis of Mara

The trail starts from the back of the Oasis Visitor Center.

The Oasis of Mara is an easy half mile loop on a paved trail with minimal elevation gain. This trail begins at the Joshua Tree National Park Headquarters in Twentynine Palms and provides an easy opportunity to visit a desert oasis and the increased chance to see desert wildlife with the rare water source that the oasis provides. There are interpretive panels along the way to learn about the oasis.

An easy half mile walk to a desert oasis.

Hike Oasis of Mara

An interior view of a room with a large sculpture on the floor and colored art on the walls.

Black Rock Art Gallery

The Black Rock Art Gallery is found inside the Black Rock Nature Center in the northwest region of the park. The gallery displays temporary exhibits by Joshua Tree National Park's Artists in Residence, local artists, and more. 

The Black Rock Art Gallery is open during the operational hours of the Black Rock Nature Center. 

Visit the Black Rock Art Gallery

Arts

Strollers are prohibited on Keys Ranch tours. Infant backpack or carriers are permitted. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older on all tours.

Keys Ranch tours cost $10 per person aged 12 and over and $5 for children 6 to 11. Children under six are admitted free. Senior and Access Pass (Golden Age and Golden Access passport) holders pay $5. Please note: Tours may be canceled due to inclement weather. Tickets are required and can be reserved ahead of time on <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300004">Recreation.gov</a>. These tour fees do not include the park entrance fee. Tickets can be booked up to 60 days in advance.

A park ranger talks to a group of visitors in front of a rustic building

Keys Ranch Tour

Join us on a ranger-led tour and learn about the cultural history of Keys Ranch. Topics may include Native American history, mining, ranching, homesteading, the Keys family, and the site’s transition into a protected historical site.   The property is located in a remote, rocky canyon in Joshua Tree National Park. To preserve its historic character, admission to the ranch is restricted to guided walking tours. The tours are a half-mile in length.  Sturdy walking shoes, drinking water, sunscreen, and a hat will add to your comfort. Dress in layers to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Smoking and eating are not allowed during the tour. Camcorders and cameras are permitted but camera tripods are not. (You may inquire about special tours for photographers and other artists.)

Group sizes are limited. Maximum of 10 people per party (subject to availability). Tickets are required and can be reserved ahead of time on <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300004">Recreation.gov</a>.

Tours are typically held from October - May and are not available during the hot summer months. For current program schedule visit our Calendar page.

Take a tour of Keys Ranch with a park ranger.

Keys Ranch may only be accessed on a reserved tour with a park ranger. 

Alert: Cholla Cactus Garden Closure: Cholla Cactus Garden Trail will be closed daily from December 2024 - April 29th, 2025, to improve the conditions of the loop trail.

Joshua Tree

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Things To Do

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Hike Boy Scout Trail

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Hike Cholla Cactus Garden

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Hike Fortynine Palms Oasis

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Drive Park Boulevard

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Hike Barker Dam Trail

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Birding at Joshua Tree

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