Trip Description: 

Rating: Easy

Route: We will explore trails in Joshua Tree National Park. Saturday morning, we will leave from the Deer Springs Park and Ride for a 3 hour drive to the trailhead on the southwest side of the park (not an official park entrance). Our first trail is Berdoo Canyon (easy with optional moderate spurs for those who want more challenge). Then we take the Pleasant Valley/Squaw Tank trail to the Geology Tour trail. Total distance is about 19 miles, 3 hours travel time.

We exit the park Saturday evening for a short drive to the Desert Rose Collective Campground for happy hour and evening campfire. The campground offers space for trucks/tents or can provide a tent camp set-up if you want more comfort. On Sunday, we will reenter the park on the northwest side (not an official part entrance) for the Covington trail, about 1 hour travel time for a nice view. From there, a 3 hour ride home.

Please see additional required items for this trip below. 

Trail descriptions: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backcountry-roads.htm

Time & Place to Meet:

• Meet: Saturday, Oct. 14, 9:00 am, Depart: 9:30 am
• Where: Park & Ride, Deer Springs/Mountain Meadow exit from I-15. Please arrive fueled up.

What to bring:

• Required:
  • Park pass for Joshua Tree – Available online HERE
  • $20/per person, cash, for the campsite fee (if staying in the group site)
  • All-terrain tires and full-sized spare
  • Any emergency & recovery gear you may have
  • Any necessary tire changing tools, including anti-theft lug nut keys
  • Sufficient fuel for your vehicle
  • Meals and snacks for both days.
  • Drinking water (Gallon per day per person, consider pet’s needs if applicable)
  • Camping gear appropriate for primitive camping
  • (1) Bundle of firewood (at least, if camping)
• Recommended:
  • High ground clearance
  • Vehicle armor (sliders, etc.)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Amateur 2m radio with external antenna (very highly recommended)
• Recommended if camping:
  • Weather can be unpredictable – checking the National Weather Service report is recommended.

Destination information: Joshua Tree National Park
Frequency: 2M: 147.580 MHz
RSVP/Register: Sign up below
Trail Leader: John Resler