Outbound Collective logo

Hike Split Rock Loop in Joshua Tree National Park

Twentynine Palms, California

Details

Distance

1.94 miles

Elevation Gain

220 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Carter Clark

An easy hike around the awe-inspiring rocks that make Joshua Tree so incredible.

Starting out at the Split Rock Trail parking lot, you'll see Split Rock, which might be the most visited boulder in the park. Everyone makes a visit to it and while it is absolutely amazing, it's great to take the hour or two to wander around to more amazing scenery. 

Immediately upon starting there's a great little cave on the backside of Split Rock. After checking that out, you follow the cairns and signs on a loop around the site.

 About a mile and a half in, you see signs to split off to go see Face Rock or continue onward. It's a good little jaunt, but also a good spot to put some space in between you and other hikers if you are there in the busy season. 

Back on the main trail, you continue to wander around until you're back to large boulder fields. It's a great place to wander around, but be sure not to walk on any vegetation. 

This hike is very easy, but is a great warm up to seeing what is around you in this park. It also introduces you to some climbing spots that you may want to check out when you have your gear. 

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildlife

Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Skull Rock Trail at Joshua Tree National Park

Camp at Joshua Tree's Jumbo Rocks

Desert Queen Mine and Eagle Cliff Boulder House

Explore the Desert Queen Mine and Wash

Arch Rock Nature Trail

Camp at Joshua Tree's White Tank Campground