Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,196.00 ft (364.54 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
13.00 mi (20.92 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.

The Stubbe Springs + Fan Canyon Loop is a 13-mile loop trail located in the Mojave Desert section of Joshua Tree National Park. It features a wide range of desert vegetation, wildlife, and solitude. A hike along this trail is a great way to escape the crowds without sacrificing the incredible views of a beautiful desert landscape. 

Stubbe Springs + Fan Canyon Loop Trail is a rugged backcountry trail traversing sandy terrain with rolling hills and an overall gentle grade.  From the Juniper Flats Trailhead (located off of Keys View Road), the loop heads west on the California Riding and Hiking Trail (CRHT), passing through desert brush, grasses, and wildflowers.

At 1.7 miles, turn left and follow Stubbe Springs Loop Trail south. As the trail ascends towards Fan Canyon, pinyon and juniper trees begin to appear. 

After 5 miles, there is a short, steep descent to the Fan Canyon View spur trail (0.3 one way). This short side trip provides exceptional views of Fan Canyon and the Coachella Valley. However, the Fan Canyon View can be skipped if you are looking to reduce the loop's overall length. 
Retrace your steps from Fan Canyon View back to Stubbe Spring Loop and continue clockwise. After 6.9 miles, you will arrive at Stubbe Spring. After 9 miles, the Stubbe Spring Loop runs back into a trail junction with the CRHT. Turn right on CRHT and continue east toward Keys View Road and the Juniper Flats Trailhead. 

RESTRICTIONS AND CAMPING

This area is day-use only and camping. Camping is not permitted along the trail. For more information about camping and park restrictions please visit https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Joshua Tree National Park: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm

Visitor Information: 1-760-367-5500

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Solitude. Expansive Desert Views.

Cons

No water.

Trailhead Elevation

4,305.00 ft (1,312.16 m)

Highest point

4,956.00 ft (1,510.59 m)

Features

Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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