Embark on a spectacular hike along the historical Hidden Valley Trail where nature’s artistry unfolds amidst towering boulders and twisted Joshua trees. Wander through sandy paths and scramble over granite formations, discovering a unique and picturesque scenery unlike other parts of Joshua Tree National Park.
Legend has it that in the late 1800s, Hidden Valley served as a hideout for cattle rustlers seeking to conceal their ill-gotten gains amidst the massive boulder formations. The natural fortress-like qualities of the valley provided an ideal hiding place for the thieves and their stolen cattle.
In 1936, the landscape was forever altered when a determined rancher named Bill Keys blasted an opening through the towering rock walls that encircle Hidden Valley. This strategic move not only facilitated easier access for his cattle to the lush grasses within the valley but also inadvertently opened up this hidden oasis to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Know Before You Go
Entrance Pass
Entrance into Joshua Tree National Park is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you have the America the Beautiful Pass then you get in for free. If you don’t have an America the Beautiful Pass and you visit National Parks frequently, we highly recommend making the purchase! It costs $80 for one whole year.
Summer in Joshua Tree
It is recommended to hike Hidden Valley Trail in either spring, fall, or winter. Try to avoid hiking this trail or any other trail in Joshua Tree in the summer due to extreme heat and lack of shade.
If visiting Joshua Tree National Park in the summer, always check the local weather forecast prior to going so you can plan your day around the heat. The smart thing to do would be explore and hike early in the morning and later in the evening to avoid the peak summertime heat.
Bring plenty of water, salty snacks, and other items to replenish your electrolytes if you are out hiking in the heat and sweating a lot. Also, protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen and SPF lip balm and wearing sun-protective clothing.
Be smart and be safe out there if visiting in the summer!
Leave No Trace
Before you go, please make sure you understand the Leave No Trace principles. These seven principles help reduce our environmental impact from outdoor recreational activities. Nature is meant to be enjoyed and respected. 🌱
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
About the Trail
Hidden Valley Trail
Location: Located in the northern part of Joshua Tree National Park off of Park Boulevard.
Length & Elevation Gain: It’s about 1 mile with an elevation gain of 100 feet.
Hiking Time: It takes an average of 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete this hike.
Route Type: This is a loop hike.
Difficulty Rating: This hike is considered easy.
Terrain: This trail consists of hard packed dirt, soft sand, gravel/rocks, and stone steps.
Pet-friendly? No, pets are not allowed.
How to Get to the Trailhead
The Hidden Valley Trailhead is located at the Hidden Valley Picnic Area off of Park Boulevard.
The parking lot is pretty big but fills up quickly later in the morning. There are a few extra parking spots alongside Park Boulevard near the entrance into the picnic area. Read my blog about how to avoid crowds in the great outdoors so you can have a better experience!
Put this address in Google maps: Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead, 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Trail Directions
Hidden Valley Trail
Start this hike from the parking area by following the Hidden Valley Trail. The trail initially heads up a set of stone steps.
You will soon reach the opening of Hidden Valley which was said to have been blasted open by Bill Keys in order for his cattle to have easier access to the grasses within the valley.
There will be a junction in the trail in which the loop begins. Take a left to go clockwise as this is the recommended direction.
The trail will take you around Hidden Valley with stunning views of giant granite boulders which surround the valley.
There was one boulder in particular that looked like a little baby elephant with its trunk in the air. Super cool!
The Hidden Valley Trail is well-marked and easy to follow. It’s a short trail so take your time admiring the beauty around you.
Eventually you will return back to the junction in the trail from the beginning. Take a left to head back to the parking lot. Congrats, you did it! 🥳
🌵 Check out more amazing hikes in Joshua Tree National Park: Split Rock Trail, Skull Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Arch Rock & Heart Rock, and Wall Street Mill.
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