Juniper Flats Loop via Ryan Campground is an 11.2-mile scenic loop hike from Ryan Campground to Juniper Flats, offering a perfect blend of Joshua Tree’s iconic desert scenery and opportunities for solitude. This route connects Juniper Flats Road with the California Riding and Hiking Trail (CRHT), forming a loop that showcases the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.
DESCRIPTION
Start your hike from Ryan Campground, heading southwest toward the California Riding and Hiking Trail. The trail gently ascends through a landscape of Joshua trees, cholla cactus, and yucca, with expansive desert views and rocky outcroppings along the way.
Follow the CRHT until you reach Keys View Road. Look for the Juniper Flats Road parking area and continue onto Juniper Flats Road. This part of the loop offers a more remote desert experience, with rugged terrain as you descend through sandy washes and rock formations, away from the crowds of Ryan Campground. The wide, open desert floor and distant mountain ranges provide peaceful and stunning views.
Once you reach Juniper Flats, you'll rejoin the CRHT and follow it back to Ryan Campground, where you can explore nearby rock climbing areas or enjoy a night of camping under the stars.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Joshua trees, cacti, and iconic desert plant life
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Rugged terrain with rock formations and sandy washes
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Expansive views of the desert floor and surrounding mountain ranges
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Opportunities for solitude away from the more crowded areas.
SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS:
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Weather: Be prepared for temperature extremes. Desert heat during the day can be intense, while nights may be cold.
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Sun Protection: Minimal shade is available, so wear sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen.
BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING AND PERMITS
Backcountry camping is permitted in certain areas with regulations in place to protect the fragile desert environment.
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Permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry within Joshua Tree National Park.
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Permits can be reserved up to 6 months in advance.
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Permits are reserved through www.recreation.gov.
Ryan Campground Information:
Reservations for Ryan Campground are required year-round and can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
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.
SEASON
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
For more information about the park, rules, and regulations please visit: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm.
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