Split Rock Loop Hike

The Split Rock loop is one of several short hikes that explore the magical rock heaps that, along with Joshua Tree National Park’s namesake trees, define this unique desert enclave. Just a short drive from the popular and crowded Skull Rock area, this hike will likely offer solitude and many chances to scramble on and around the rough granite boulder heaps.

From the parking lot, the trail is an oval loop that doesn’t involve much elevation change, but it climbs in and out of several small basins. The trail is an excellent introduction to the varied plant life of the Mojave Desert, featuring Joshua Trees, cholla cacti and creosote bush (Larrea tridentata). The huge formations of granite boulders present a limitless supply of interesting and imagination-tweaking shapes. To the distant east, the Twentynine Palms Mountains are visible. About 0.3 miles up the trail there is a sharp turn to the left with a small “Split Rock” sign. Follow that direction to continue the loop or continue straight to take the trail to the fascinating Eagle Cliff Mine site.

The loop trail wanders among the boulder piles to a junction with the Skull Rock Trail, where a sharp left will return to the Split Rock parking area. Watch for rock climbers in this area.