Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
847.00 ft (258.17 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
7.60 mi (12.23 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Lost Palms Oasis Trail is a 7.6-mile out-and-back in the southeast corner of Joshua Tree National Park. The trail follows a well-maintained singletrack composed mostly of rock and sand. The trail extends from the Cottonwood Campground to the Lost Palms Oasis, which is home to the largest stand of Fan Palm Trees in the park. The trail is rated easy to moderate with little elevation change and is fairly easy to follow.

As the trail winds through the vast Colorado Desert terrain, visitors will see expansive vistas as well as native desert plants such as yucca, ocotillo, and different types of cacti. Additionally, the trail passes by remnants of the historic Mastodon Mine and intersects with the Mastodon Peak Trail. 

Trail winds through dry washes and rocky canyons, with views of Eagle Mountain to the north, before descending into Lost Palms Canyon and reaching the Lost Palms Oasis. This unique desert oasis is a perfect place to relax and take in the views. The fan palms soak up water from an underground spring that has created several pools, and stands of trees, spread throughout the canyon. 

Once you are ready to return, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

CONSIDERATIONS

The main challenges of this journey include a lack of shade, lack of water, and the possibility of extreme temperatures. Visitors should plan to carry sufficient water, dress in sun protective clothing, and avoid hiking on days with extreme heat.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Lost Palms Oasis

Cottonwood Spring

 

 



 

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Largest stand of Fan Palms. Scenic vistas.

Cons

No shade.

Trailhead Elevation

3,011.00 ft (917.75 m)

Highest point

3,449.00 ft (1,051.26 m)

Features

Wildlife
Historically significant
Backcountry camping
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, California

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