The Bigfoot Trail Loop is a 30.4-mile backcountry route that traverses through the northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park. It begins and ends with the Creosote Trail, located off of Park Boulevard, the park's main road, south of the West Entrance Station. This route starts in a popular tourist area, but then journeys through more remote areas and dips in and out of the Joshua Tree Wilderness. It follows trails that are suitable for running, hiking, and backpacking. A majority of the route is open to equestrians, but cyclists are prohibited (visit the national park’s website for information regarding where you can bike).
This is a moderately rated, scenic route that traverses across a vast Mojave Desert landscape. The elevation ranges between approximately 3,300 and 5,500 feet with an overall gain of 4,299’. The sandy trails wind up and down a hilly terrain dotted with creosote and mesquite. The route crosses rugged canyons, rocky washes, and open valleys with panoramic views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains.
MILES / WAYPOINTS (mileages may be approximate)
00.00 - Start on Creosote Trail.
00.50 - Turn right on Bigfoot Trail.
02.50 - Cross Quail Wash.
08.70 - Cross the California Riding and Hiking Trail.
09.50 - Turn left and head south.
10.10 - Short out-and-back to a scenic vista.
11.00 - Eureka Peak
11.20 - Follow Upper Covington Road.
14.40 - California Riding and Hiking Trail.
16.20 - Head north.
18.30 - Continue on Lower Covington Road.
19.20 - Lower Covington Flat.
20.60 - Rejoin Bigfoot Trail.
25.00 - Head southeast on the Panorama Trail.
28.20 - Turn left and head north on Bigfoot Trail.
29.10 - Turn right on South Side Connector Trail.
30.10 - End.
SEASONS
This hike is best in the fall and spring (October - May), when temperatures are more mild. Winter is manageable but it can get cold and windy and summer is extremely hot with little exposure and no water.
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.
PARK FEES
Joshua Tree National Park charges a fee to enter. For more information, please visit https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/fees.htm.
BACKCOUNTRY PERMIT AND CAMPING
A permit is required for backcountry camping in the park. Permits are easily accessible at a number of trailheads within the park and more information can be found at https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Joshua Tree National Park: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm.
Visitor Information: 1-760-367-5500
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