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Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,080 Google reviews · Running trail in Twentynine Palms, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic 1-mi. hiking loop with huge rock formations to climb & views of Joshua trees & desert areas.
What runners say about Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead
“Absolutely stunning and so much to see on this trail but it was so crowded that it was hard to hike and enjoy everything it has to offer.”
“The trail is pretty well marked, but there are a few off shoots that could get you headed in the wrong direction.”
Hidden Valley Nature Trail is one of the best short hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. When I visited, it was Thanksgiving Day, and it was packed—the parking lot filled up fast. It’s one of the most famous trails in the park, so the crowds weren’t surprising, but it’s something to plan for.
This review is about stargazing at night at Hidden Valley. My go-to first stop for stargazing. Could have driven to Arch Rock but the rock and surrounding Joshua trees formed great backdrop when taking Milky Way photos!
Absolutely stunning trail! Breathtaking!!! 🪨☀️ Very very easy walk. It’s a loop at 1.8km long. No shade on this walk. Bring a hat. Lots of water. We came in March so weather was perfect. You can climb the boulders if you like or stick to the flat trail that is well maintained. No need for special hiking shoes.
One of my favorite beginner hikes in Joshua Tree! There were so many cool boulders to climb, little trails to explore, and gorgeous views of the park. We even saw some professional climbers scaling a huge wall! Our group of 18 absolutely loved it here, highly recommend for any group size and skill level
Trail conditions & character
“Absolutely stunning and so much to see on this trail but it was so crowded that it was hard to hike and enjoy everything it has to offer.”
“Big parking lot, restrooms and nice loop trail through a cool valley with the best rock formations I’d seen all day.”
“Can be a little crowded at night, so be prepared to have your photos tinted red from folks exiting the parking lot or from distant traffic along the main route.”
“The loop is easy, well-marked, and perfect for beginners who want a scenic walk without a tough climb.”
“Big parking lot, restrooms and nice loop trail through a cool valley with the best rock formations I’d seen all day.”
“Our group of 18 absolutely loved it here, highly recommend for any group size and skill level”
“The trail is pretty well marked, but there are a few off shoots that could get you headed in the wrong direction.”
Plan your run at Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitenps.gov
- Phone(760) 367-5500
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Twentynine Palms
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Cap Rock
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Boy Scout Trail
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Quail Springs Trail
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3-mi point-to-point trail along moderately strenuous terrain through unique desert rock formations.
Indian Cove Nature Trail Trailhead
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Gentle 0.5-mile trail near the Indian Cove campground, showcasing desert flora & rock formations.