The Best Hike at Joshua Tree National Park Is Also Its Best Kept Secret
Most hikes at Joshua Tree National Park can be best described as flat manicured nature trails that are beautiful, short, and also very popular. Joshua Mountain, however, provides relief from park crowds and a challenging workout.
The trail to the summit of Joshua Mountain, formerly known as Indian Head, is not found on the park map and is our favorite hike for significant elevation gain and adventurous rock scrambling. If you’re a guest at the WKNDR Joshua Tree National Park Airbnb, its jaw dropping rock formation can be seen from the front porch and is also walkable from the property.
The trail to Joshua Mountain is hardly trafficked and not maintained by the park. This is a cross country endeavor. It’s a great combination of nature, physical challenge, and amazing views. If you’re brave enough to scale the summit, you’ll find a summit register in the form of an empty peanut butter jar full of entertaining notes. Make sure to bring yours to make your own mark on park history.
Overview
Difficulty: Strenuous
Popularity: Low
Distance: A little over 3 miles depending where you start
Elevation: 3,680 feet
How Much Time To Plan:
For fast hikers and no stops: 2 hours
For a casual pace and a few photos: 3-4 hours
For extra exploring: 4+ hours
Best Photo Spots:
At the peak
Scaling the peak
How to Get There
Where to Park: Hike from the WKNDR Joshua Tree National Park Airbnb or park on the shoulder of Utah Trail at Wellock Rd. Make sure all tires are inside the white lines. Do not park on Wellock Rd because it’s private.
Trailhead: This trail begins on the west side of Utah Trail across the street from Wellock Road or slightly south from Hillview Rd.
To begin the route, you’ll cross Utah Trail to the west side. Congratulations, you’ve entered Joshua Tree National Park. Once across the street you may spot the social trail used by those before you. If not, don’t worry. It’s time to be an explorer. Head toward the rock wash that leads up to the giant rock formation that is Joshua Mountain. Please disrupt nature as little as possible. Stick to the path of least resistance and do not stomp on plants.
As you make your way to the base of the mountain you’ll cross a few sandy washes. The last one before the base of the mountain is large. After crossing this, you’ll see a social trail leading to the left of the rock wash. Once you reach base of the rock wash, the trail is marked with rock cairns. This is when the workout begins. In general, you’ll stay to the left of the wash the entire way up. You’ll know you are halfway when you get to the giant boulder in the middle of the wash. This boulder is named “Man Can.”
Once you reach the base of the giant rock face, you’ll have the option to go left or right. There is no trail to the summit and requires challenging rock scrambling. I’ve found it easier to go to the right.
Whether you reach the base or the summit, you’ve made it to a place where very few people get to go. I love this trail because you can truly feel lost in the magic of the quiet desert.
If you’re interested in the few sport climbing routes on the face of Joshua Mountain, find more information at Mountain Project.
When to Go: Do not attempt this trail during summer in the middle of the day.
What to Pack: Make sure to carry at least 2 L of water per person, snacks, and a first aid kit. You may have phone service for the majority of the trail, but keep in mind this trail is not maintained by the park. Always tell someone where you’re going and what time you expect to be back. Here is a resource on hiking safety.
Footwear: Trail runners or approach shoes. Because this is a cross country hike, you’ll need to be on alert for cacti. Sandals are not recommended, even Chacos.
Other Helpful Hints:
This trail will require use of your hands. If you cannot hike without trekking poles, do not attempt this trail.
Furry friends (dogs, cats, and other pets) are not permitted on any trails in Joshua Tree National Park.
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.
Distance from the WKNDR: 0.1 miles
If you’re a guest at the WKNDR Joshua Tree National Park Airbnb and have any questions about this trail, please contact your virtual guide.
