Take the 10 East from Los Angeles. Continue past Palm Springs and head towards Chiriaco Summit. The turn will be a few miles before you reach the town, and you will see a sign that says Joshua Tree National Park.
This is the South Entrance. Drive for about 7 miles until you come to a junction with Cottonwood Springs Road. You will see the ranger station ahead on your right. Turn right here and park in the parking lot. Here is where you begin your hike. Follow the signs. The trail is well marked.
You can also start at the campground which will add an additional 1.6 miles to your hike round trip.
Or, add the Mastodon Peak and mine side trip and make this a loop hike.
Description
This is a nice hike that leads to a hidden and secluded palm oasis. It is similar to what you have seen in Bugs Bunny cartoons, but there wasn't much water when I visited.
I saw tracks and droppings of Desert Bighorn, but none of the elusive beasts.
The hike follows a well trodden path, which is clearly marked at every possible wrong turn. There are posts with arrows which guide you in the event of a wash crossing a wash, plus the footprints are just as useful of a guide.
Some of the hike is through sand. It is a little loose, but not enough to make this a strenuous hike. However, the distance combined with the wash walking (it is minimal) and the steep climb up and down into the canyon make this a moderate adventure.
Although there are nicer areas to hike in Joshua Tree, this destination is a grand one, and recommended at least once.
Map / Directions:
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