Trail Guide To Hiking 49 Palms Oasis At Joshua Tree National Park
Overview
No, it’s not a mirage. The palm oasis with approximately 50 large fan palms at the end of this 3 mile trip is very much real, and these palms and the surrounding oasis are what make this trail one of the best in Joshua Tree National Park.
Slightly off the beaten path, this trail travels up an unobstructed, cactus-covered ridge then descends into a beautiful oasis with palm trees, pools and streams. There are also larger than life boulders allowing you to find respite where you can listen to the sounds and watch the sights emerging from this desert oasis.
Trail Stats
Difficulty: Moderate
Popularity: Moderate
Distance: 3.1 miles (5 km)
Elevation: 636 feet (194 m)
How Much Time To Plan:
For fast hikers and no stops: 1-1.5 hours
For a casual pace and a few photos: 2 hours
For extra exploring: 2.5 hours
Best Photo Spots
The high point of the trail provides sweeping vistas of 29Palms
The cluster of palm trees and water pools against the desert mountains is a surreal backdrop
Plan Your Visit
Trailhead: 49 Palms Oasis
Where to Park: Interestingly enough the 49 Palms Oasis Trailhead doesn’t require entrance through the park gate (which means its free to visit). All you need to do is plug Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail, Fortynine Palms Canyon Rd, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 into your GPS which will take you through some of the Twentynine Palms neighborhoods before you find yourself at the trailhead.
However, if you are traveling from inside the park, exit the north entrance. Make a left on Route 62 and then turn south on Canyon Road. Drive 1.7 miles to the parking lot at road's end.
When to Go: October through May
Footwear: Light hiking shoes or trail runners.
Other Helpful Hints:
This trail is often closed in the summer to provide big horn sheep protected access to water. Check the National Park Service alerts for closures.
Because this is one of the few places with water in the desert, bees are rampant in the summer. Beware if you are allergic.
Furry friends (dogs, cats, and other pets) are not permitted on any trails in Joshua Tree National Park.
Check the weather. Summer can be bruuuutal and there is no escaping the heat on this trail.
Please leave with what you came with and follow the Leave No Trace principles so everyone now and into the future can enjoy this amazing location.