The Maze Loop

As the Maze Loop takes you through the desert environment of Joshua Tree National Park, it is important to be prepared. Ensure that you bring lots of water with you, as it is not readily available throughout the hike. Also, depending on the time of year, it is worth completing this hike early in the morning or during the evening to avoid the midday heat.

With your vehicle parked, locate the trailhead at the northern section of the parking lot. Follow the Maze Loop Trail north until you reach a junction. As the Maze Loop Trail is a circuit, it can be completed by going either direction at the junction. Nevertheless, it is recommended you do the circuit clockwise in order to cut down on trail congestion. Having passed the first junction, keep on Maze Loop Trail through the next two junctions.

From here, the Maze Loop trail continues in an easterly direction, following a stream as it starts to gain elevation slowly. Soon, you will see a large hill to your south as you arrive at another junction, where you are to follow the Maze Loop Trail to the south. Keep on this southern heading while avoiding veering off the path at the next two junctions. The Maze Loop Trail will then turn sharply to the northwest, losing elevation as it goes. You will then soon arrive back at the trailhead.