Hiking Trail Guide: Joshua Tree NP - Cottonwood Spring Nature Trail

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Joshua Tree NP - Cottonwood Spring Nature Trail

Distance
1.5 miles

Elevation
100 feet gain

Difficulty
2/10

City
Indio ,CA (92202) 113.69 miles from you Weather Map

Trailhead
Take the 10 East past Indio, exit at the turnoff for Joshua Tree National Park. It says Twentynine Palms/Mecca. Turn left (north) and follow the road 8 miles to the Cottonwood Visitor Center. Pay the entrance fee and follow the turnoff road southeast to Cottonwood Springs Campground. Park and start on the interpretive nature trail.

You can make this into a larger loop if you wish by visiting Mastodon Peak, Moorten's Mill or even Lost Palms Oasis. however the interpretive trail is very suitable for older people and children. There are informative signs to read that describe the vegetation of the Colorado Desert and the springs/oasis.

This is a trip that anyone can enjoy.

Description

If you are camped at Cottonwood or just looking for a small hike to complement a larger one in Joshua Tree, this is a great small hike to spend some time on. The oasis is a big one, although the road comes right up to it, so it isn't very secluded or peaceful if lots of people are around. Although, it is possible to get a bit of solitude on the trail, because not many people take it, most just drive to and from the campground to the oasis.

Extending the trail to any number of locations will get you away from the cacophony of the hoi polloi, but you might just spot some birds and other wildlife at the oasis if you stick around long enough and wait for the people to come and go.

Map / Directions: