Hiking Trail Guide: Joshua Tree NP - Ryan Mountain

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Joshua Tree NP - Ryan Mountain

Distance
4.5 miles

Elevation
1100 feet gain

Difficulty
4/10

City
Joshua Tree ,CA (92252) 112.1 miles from you Weather Map

Trailhead
Take the 10 towards Palm Springs from whatever direction you are coming from. You will need to exit on the 62 heading North. Follow the 62 through the desert towns of Morongo, Yucca Valley, and into Joshua Tree. You will see signs telling you how far the West entrance is. Turn right on Park and follow it to the entrance gate where you pay National Park Fees of $10 - good for one week starting on that day.

From there drive about 12 miles to Sheep's Pass Group Campground. It says reservations required, but there is plenty of trailhead parking. From there follow the well-graded trail around the mountain until you begin your climb upward.

Description

Joshua Tree is no hiker's paradise(not much shade, not much water, not much wildlife), but there are some great trails and vistas in the park. The park itself is splendid and beautiful, don't get me wrong, but if the day gets hot, and you don't have much water, be thankful most of the trails here are short.

This trail is a pretty good, but short, climb. It gets very steep in places. I listed it as moderate, but anyone with hiking ability should find it pretty easy, because of the low elevation, and shortness of the trip. I made it up and back in under two hours, and that what even spending 15-20 minutes on the windy top.

The top affords a 360' view of the park, and the towering sentinels of San Gorgonio and San Jacinto loom to the West.

If you are in Joshua Tree and have a few hours, this one is well worth your time.

Map / Directions: