Trail Guide To Maze Loop Trail At Joshua Tree National Park
Overview
Maze Loop Trail located in Joshau Tree National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover. This trail takes you through a fascinating landscape of giant boulders, narrow canyons, and hidden oases. It's a relatively easy hike, suitable for hikers of all skill levels, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert.
Trail Stats
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: Moderate
Distance: 4.9 miles
Elevation: 374 feet
How Much Time To Plan: 3 hours - 3.5 hours (for photos)
Best Photo Spots
Boulder-Strewn Landscape Near The Trailhead: This area is filled with massive rocks jutting up from the ground in all directions, making for a dramatic and unique backdrop for photos.
Narrow Canyons: The Maze Loop Trail takes you through some tight squeezes between towering rock formations, creating a dramatic and intimate setting for photos.
Hidden Oasis: About halfway through the hike, you'll come across a hidden oasis, with water trickling out of the rocks and surrounded by greenery. This is a perfect spot for photos, especially on a hot day.
Giant Rock Sculptures: The rocks around you are like giant sculptures, formed by centuries of wind and weathering. They come in all shapes and sizes, with some towering high above you, and others forming narrow canyons that you can squeeze through.
Plan Your Visit
Trailhead: The trailhead for the Maze Loop Trail is located at the White Tank Campground, in the northwestern part of the park. From here, the trail begins by winding through a boulder-strewn landscape, with massive rocks jutting up from the ground in all directions. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with occasional signs pointing the way.
Where to Park: The Maze Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park can be accessed from the White Tank Campground parking lot, which is the best parking option for hikers wanting to access the trail.
To get to the White Tank Campground parking lot, take Park Boulevard to the west entrance of the park. Follow signs for the North Entrance and turn onto the road leading to the White Tank Campground. Once you arrive at the campground, look for the parking lot near the trailhead for the Maze Loop Trail.
It is important to note that parking at the White Tank Campground is limited, and during peak season or weekends, it can fill up quickly. Arriving early in the day is recommended to secure a parking spot. Alternatively, hikers can park at nearby lots and walk to the trailhead, although this will add extra distance to the hike.
When to Go: All year round and recommend early in the morning to beat the crowds.
What to pack: For this trail, use our Desert Hiking Essentials list.
Footwear: Hiking sandals or sneakers.
Other Helpful Hints:
Furry friends (dogs, cats, and other pets) are not permitted on this trail.
When exploring the rocks/boulders so with caution to avoid injury.
Check the weather. Summer can be brutal 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.
The Maze Loop Trail is a unique and unforgettable hiking experience, and one that should be on every visitor's list of things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll through the desert, this trail offers something for everyone. So pack your water bottle, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the wonders of the Maze Loop Trail!
Let us know in the comments if you have hike Maze Loop Trail and of any other helpful hints that should be added to this blog.