Joshua Tree National Park Hike

Joshua Tree Park straddles the Mojave and Colorado Deserts.  Our two hikes in the western part of the park in the Mojave Desert habitat took us past gigantic boulder piles, Pinyon Pines, Junipers, Yucca and the iconic Joshua Trees the park is named after.   We also saw quite a few lizards and Jackrabbits.

On Saturday at 7 AM we had our hearty breakfast at Crossroads Cafe just outside the park, as planned.   By 8 AM we were already on our way to the Ryan Mountain trailhead.  The day started out cool, but warmed up quickly.  At times there was a cooling, brisk wind, but the sun was quite intense.  We reached the 5,470 summit quickly after a 1,075 elevation gain, climbing stone staircases and a well-maintained trail. The panaoramic views on the park were stunning from the summit.  

Next up was a 7 mile loop to Lost Horse Gold Mine and Mountain and then a quick stop (by car) to Keys View an overlook at 5,185 feet.

Thanks to everyone for joining, Emile for hosting in Palm Springs and Mark and Hut for finalizing our hikes.   

Please join us for a full day of GO camaraderie, hiking  and highlights of Joshua Tree National Park.  We will meet for breakfast before the hike at 7 AM at Cross Roads Cafe (61715-29 Palms Highway) and will collaborate on our plan for the day.  Options include Ryan Mountain (3 miles / Summit Elevation 5461 feet), Lost Horse Mine and Mountain (4 miles/ Summit 5278 feet), 49 Palms Oasis (3 miles). 

After our day in the park we can have dinner and socialize for those who would like to participate.

Required gear includes 3 liters of water, daypack, hiking boots, sun hat, non-cotton base layers and additional layers for cool temperatures, windbreaker / rainjacket, sunscreen, trail lunch and snacks, 10+ essentials for a day hike, etc. 

I will add more details to this posting before the hike. Please contact me if you have any questions or suggestions.