Joshua Tree West Side Trail

While not an extraordinarily challenging hike, it is important to keep in mind that navigation along the Joshua Tree West Side Trail can be difficult. Many sections throughout the route are poorly marked, so it is important to ensure that your skills and equipment are sufficient enough to attempt the route. Likewise, depending on the time of year, it is also recommended that you do the hike earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.

After leaving your vehicle in the lot, cross the road where the trailhead is located. Follow the trail east for a few hundred meters until you reach a junction. At the junction, follow the North Canyon Trail to the north through what is relatively flat terrain. Keep doing so until you reach a second junction.

At the second junction, continue north for a few hundred feet until you reach a third junction. At the third junction, take the eastern trail towards a stream that may or may not have water flowing—it all depends on the time of year. Having passed the stream, continue following the path northwards as it slowly gains elevation. You will then arrive at a fourth junction, where you will follow a trail called the Burro Loop Trail west back across the previously mentioned stream.

Continue along the Burro Loop Trail until you arrive at the West Access Trail, where you will take the path south towards the North Side Trail. Having reached the North Side Trail, follow it southeast all the way back to the trailhead.