Hike Ryan Mountain

Riverside County, California

4.8/5

based on 4 reviews

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Distance

2.86 miles

Elevation Gain

1056 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Matt Purciel

Great easy-to-moderate hike that leads to 360 degree views of Joshua Tree National Park.

One of the most prominent peaks in Joshua Tree National Park in Ryan Mountain. It's centrally located rising to a total of 5,456 feet above the valley floor. The trail to the peak is a moderate hike with a little over 1,000 feet elevation gain with panoramic views of Lost Horse Valley, Queen Valley, and Pleasant Valley. And it’s popular reputation is all well deserved.

There's pretty much just one path straight up the mountain so it's not hard to find. The path itself is very well constructed but does have many jagged boulders and uneven ground.

If you're hiking Ryan Mountain in the winter, check out this adventure: https://www.theoutbound.com/sa....

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Reviews

Kevin Schoonhoven

Hike Ryan Mountain

02/02/23

Our hike of Ryan mountain began at roughly 7 and we were greeted with chilly temperatures and beautiful views of the valleys all the way up. Generally speaking, if you're in okay hiking shape this trail will leave you with no issues. If you want to push the pace, you can really get your heart pumping, but a leisurely pace up what amounts to a long semi-natural staircase makes for a lovely hike. Views at the summit are beautiful and really highlight the vast, empty desert. Definitely one of the better hikes at j-tree.

5.0

Ces Augustus

Hike Ryan Mountain

06/27/22

Hiked 6/20/20 as a one day solo summer adventure. Began the hike at 7:00 A.M. after a 2 hour drive from West Covina, CA. I was glad I got an early start as there was already an intense heat on the way down. I always carry 3 liters of water, which was much needed. You would think this is a short hike, but the elevation gain is no joke. Take your time and enjoy it, no need to rush as long as you start early. I had the summit all to myself for about 10 minutes. Must do hike at JTNP!

5.0

Jenn Cataquiz

Hike Ryan Mountain

06/12/18

Just as with any hike, one has to be prepared with proper equipment, clothes, hydration, rest, and fuel. Overall, it was a moderate hike. Early morning start is suggested to avoid heat and sun rays. At the top feeling accomplished, the breeze made the all the hike better. Appreciate the view. Don’t forget to add a rock to the pile!

5.0

Matt Huber

Hike Ryan Mountain

06/26/17

Great little hike in JTNP. Pretty straightforward, nothing hard. Offers a very unique view of the park from above. Glad I did it!

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike Ryan Mountain

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Nearby

Winter Hike to Ryan Mountain

Hall of Horrors

Climb at the Hall of Horrors in Joshua Tree

Wall Street Mill

Hike the Barker Dam

Rock Climb at Headstone Rock in Joshua Tree

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