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 Reporter |
Summary: 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. Trailhead: 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. (Lat:33.71108 Lon:-115.76191) Trail Guides for Joshua Tree NP - Lost Palms Oasis and Overlook: Day Hikers Guide to Southern California by John McKinney (Olympus Press) California Hiking by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel) On Foot in Joshua Tree National Park by Patty A. Furbush (M.I. Adventure Publications) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Joshua Tree National Park (760)367-5500 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Lisa on 4/4/2005 The hike was long but gentle with intermitent and brief inclines. The wildflowers were beautiful and we saw plenty of jack rabbits, lizards and one western rattlesnake. 
Reviewed by Ashley Woody on 7/17/2004 I hATEd IT...!!! very hard on children and if we didnt bring a drop more of water we would faint. A thumbs down. i would never hike that again. but i do admit the scenery was good. 
Reviewed by Brian on 1/16/2004 I've hiked this one a few times. One of the best hikes in the park. Even seen bighorn sheep. Another way in is to hike up the wash leading in to the park and then this area from the south near the area Patton ran training with his troops leading up to WWII. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Riverside County Hiking, Riverside County Trails, Riverside County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
