Top 5 Joshua Tree National Park Trails To Hike To See Animals
Joshua Tree National Park is known for its otherworldly rock formations, incredible vistas, and of course, its wildlife. One of the most memorable experiences while visiting a National Park can be encountering animals in their natural habitats we don’t get to see at home. When visiting Joshua Tree National Park there are a number of species to be on the lookout for, from black-tailed jackrabbits to roadrunners (for a guide to Joshua Tree National Park animals click here), and it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. However, to give you an edge in animal spotting we are sharing the following top five trails to explore to increase your odds in an animal sighting:
1. Barker Dam Trail
This easy 1.3-mile loop trail is perfect for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail takes you to Barker Dam, a historic water source that was once used by cattle ranchers in the area. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, which are often seen in the area during the early morning or late afternoon. For more information on this trail, click here.
2. Lost Palms Oasis Trail
This moderate 7.2-mile hike takes you through a stunning desert landscape to a hidden oasis of palm trees. Along the way, you may see desert tortoises, lizards, and even rattlesnakes. It's best to do this hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and increase your chances of spotting wildlife. For more information on this tough Joshua Tree National Park trail click here.
3. Ryan Mountain Trail
This strenuous 3-mile hike takes you to the summit of Ryan Mountain, which offers incredible panoramic views of the park. Along the way, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, which are often seen in the area. It's best to do this hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. For more details on Ryan Mountain Trail, click here.
4. Skull Rock Trail
This easy 1.7-mile loop trail takes you to the iconic Skull Rock, a massive boulder that looks like a human skull. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for desert iguanas, which are often seen in the area during the early morning or late afternoon. For more details on Skull Rock Trail, click here.
5. Cholla Cactus GardenTrail
This easy 0.25-mile loop trail takes you through a stunning garden of cholla cactus, which are known for their spiky needles and beautiful blooms. Along the way, keep an eye out for desert cottontails and black-tailed jackrabbits, which are often seen in the area during the early morning or late afternoon. For more details on the Cholla Cactus Garden Trail click here.
In general, the best times to see animals in Joshua Tree National Park are during the early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are cooler and the animals are more active. Remember to always practice responsible wildlife viewing by keeping a safe distance and not disturbing the animals. With its stunning trails and incredible wildlife, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
Let us know if you’ve explored any of these trails, which was your favorite, whether you saw any animals, and what others you would add to this list in the comments below.