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Skull Rock Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 3,287 Google reviews · Running trail in Twentynine Palms, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Skull Rock Trail'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.
Skull-shaped desert granite rock formation with 2 depressions like eye sockets created by erosion.
What runners say about Skull Rock Trail
“It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the perfect shot amidst the scenic backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park.”
“Visitors of all ages will find delight in exploring this area and marveling at the skull-shaped rock.”
Skull Rock Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a delightful jaunt into nature's whimsy, featuring a natural rock formation that resembles a skull, adding a touch of playful mystery to the landscape.
Skull rock as a located along the main east-west park road in Joshua Tree National Park. Skull Rock is a favorite stop for park visitors. So you’ll always meet people there. You can just park across the road from the rock to see it and take pictures or you can take a 1.7-mile hike.
The huge climbing rocks are super grippy here, which is great for kids or beginner hikers! I feel like there weren’t as many actual Joshua trees inside the park as there were while driving there, but that’s ok. You’ve seen one, you’ve seen ‘em all, am I right?
Loved Joshua Tree National Park. The rangers are super friendly and full of information. The park is very accessible, allowing some key features, such as this one, to be visible with just just a short walk. That being said, it is worth getting out of the car and walking around to explore.
Trail conditions & character
“One of the must see spot in Joshua tree national park need couple of hour and sunset view is amazing so plan accordingly Amazing Rock formation.”
“Great little hike at joshua tree there's plenty of parking in jumbo, rock campsite.”
“There are many rocks to climb here, but you should move to a different location that will be more spread out and have fewer people.”
“The park is very accessible, allowing some key features, such as this one, to be visible with just just a short walk.”
“One side is rocky the other side is full of desert plants.”
“We did the trail loop, which part of it is paved through the campground area.”
Plan your run at Skull Rock Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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 — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- 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.
Discovery Trail
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Split Rock Loop Trail
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Arch Rock Nature Trail
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Contact Mine Trail
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