Mastodon Mine
The Mastodon Peak Loop is an easy ramble near Joshua Tree's Cottonwood Campground and draws plenty of visitors. But while the trail is well-trodden, the story of the mine and nearby mills is lesser known.
Barker Dam
It goes without saying that water is vital in the desert, and Joshua Tree is no different.
History
A rancher named C.O. Barker built the dam around 1902 to improve the natural tank for his cattle. Along with the nearby Cow Camp reservoir, the tank was an important watering
Window Rock
I'm a fan of arches. I don't know why, but they are always fun to find. There aren't that many in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park (Arch Rock, Stamp Arch, and Garrett's Arch come to mind), but there is a
Boy Scout Trail
This is a shuttle hike that goes along the edge of the maze that is the Wonderland of Rocks, and then drops down into Indian Cove. It's not a backcountry hike to an old mine or anything, but I am including it for the completeness of Joshua Tree
Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley has a hidden secret: its outlaw past. The history of this area dates back to the mid-1870s when ranchers discovered it had good spring grazing and winter feed for their sheep and cattle. Around this time, a group known as the "McHaney Gang" began utilizing certain
Stockyard Rock
Out in Death Valley, there is a rock a friend told me about a long, long time ago. I'd been wanting to visit it for some time but never stopped to check it out. So, in early 2021, I finally did.
Chaparrosa Peak
There is nothing historical here, but this is a nice hike to a peak with great views just outside of Joshua Tree.
Directions
Getting There
The trailhead for this hike is at the visitor center in the Pioneertown Mountains Preserve, run by The Wildlands Conservancy.