Boy Scout to Maze Loop

This 21.2-mile route offers an exciting backpacking adventure through Joshua Tree National Park. Starting at the Boy Scout Trailhead off Park Boulevard Road, the scenic, moderately challenging path takes you through diverse desert landscapes, including rugged rock formations, expansive washes, and picturesque Joshua tree forests. By combining the Boy Scout Trail with several other trails, this route offers flexibility in distance, making it ideal for a multi-day backpacking trip or a long day hike. It provides a unique way to experience the beauty of Joshua Tree’s backcountry, featuring varied terrain, solitude, and stunning desert vistas for adventurous hikers and backpackers.

ROUTE DESCRIPTION
Begin your journey from the Boy Scout Trailhead, heading north on the well-marked Boy Scout Trail. The trail starts with a gentle ascent, passing through fields of iconic Joshua trees, creosote bushes, and desert flora. After several miles, you’ll reach the junction with the Big Pine Trail. Turn onto this trail and continue west. From the Big Pine Trail, you will connect with the Window Loop Trail, Maze Loop Trail, North Side Trail, North Canyon Trail, and North View Trail. Eventually, you’ll reconnect with the Big Pine Trail and retrace your steps back to the Boy Scout Trail, following it south to return to the trailhead.

FLORA AND FAUNA
This route showcases plenty of Joshua trees, cholla cacti, creosote bushes, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. In spring, the desert blooms with vibrant wildflowers. Wildlife sightings may include jackrabbits, lizards, and desert tortoises. Keep an eye out for hawks soaring above the rock formations.

WATER SOURCES
There are no reliable water sources along this route, so it’s crucial to bring enough water for the entire trip. The desert environment can be unforgiving, especially during hotter months, so plan accordingly.

CAMPING AND PERMITS
Backcountry camping is allowed in Joshua Tree National Park, but you must camp at least 1 mile from the road and 500 feet from the trail. Camping permits are required for backpacking and can be reserved in advance at www.recreation.gov. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check for any current regulations or restrictions before heading out.

SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS

• Weather: The desert can be extremely hot during the day and cold at night. Be prepared with proper clothing and sun protection.

• Wildlife: Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and be mindful of rattlesnakes, especially in warmer months.

• Sun Exposure: There is minimal shade along this route, so plan accordingly.

PARKING
Parking is available at the Boy Scout Trailhead off Park Boulevard Road. Arrive early, particularly during peak season, as this is a popular starting point for both day hikers and backpackers.

FEES
National park fees are required for entrance into the park, this applies to travelers entering the park in a vehicle as well as on foot or by bike. More information, and current prices can be found at https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm.

WHEN TO VISIT
The park is open year-round, however, the busiest months are October - May.

CURRENT WEATHER CONDITIONS
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=CAZ560.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Joshua Tree National Park: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm.
Visitor Information: 1-760-367-5500