Ryan Mountain, Joshua Tree CA
• 4-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,070ft
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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Heading back down, with popular climbing spot Hall of Horrors below.
The Ryan Mountain trail ascends one of Joshua Tree National Park's most prominent peaks, climbing a thousand feet over a three mile round trip. The well-maintained path follows the western flank at a steady grade, making it a moderate hike suitable for those with reasonable fitness levels. At 5,456 feet elevation, the summit provides one of the park's best panoramic viewpoints.
As you climb, views expand progressively to the northwest, revealing Intersection Rock, Queen Valley, and the Wonderland of Rocks. Roughly halfway up, the trail reaches a saddle where the landscape shifts dramatically. Here, hikers gain their first eastern perspectives across Pleasant Valley toward the Pinto Mountains and Eagle Mountains in the distance. This midpoint offers a natural rest spot before the final push to the summit.
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4★ Ryan Mountain Trail
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX? |
| $ NPS entrance fee |
The summit plateau is relatively flat and spacious, allowing groups to spread out while taking in 360-degree views. On clear days, visibility extends to the Salton Sea to the south and San Gorgonio Mountain to the west. The peak also provides an excellent vantage point for understanding the park's geology, with visible fault lines and distinct rock formations throughout the surrounding valleys.
Trail conditions consist primarily of rocky terrain with occasional sandy sections. The path features extensive stone step construction designed for erosion control on this heavily trafficked route. While effective for preservation, some hikers find the stepped sections, particularly during descent, more demanding on knees and ankles than natural trail surface. Trekking poles can help with stability on the way down.
The trailhead is located directly off Park Boulevard with a large parking area that fills quickly during peak visiting hours, typically from late fall through early spring. Arriving early morning or late afternoon increases parking availability and provides better lighting for photography. The hike takes most people two to three hours round trip, depending on pace and time spent at the summit.
Photo opportunity by the trailhead. | The rounded Ryan Mountain summit.
Before or after your hike, visit the nearby Ryan Ranch ruins located a short walk from the parking area. These adobe structures are remnants of the homestead built by brothers Jep and Tom Ryan in the 1890s. Jep Ryan operated the Lost Horse Mine, one of the park's most productive gold mining operations. The ruins offer historical context for the area's mining era and are worth the brief detour.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Please stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt & electrolyte tablets.
MAP PACK Joshua Tree
Navigate the park with our free offline map.
Navigate the park with our free offline map.
Ryan Mountain brings fresh, elevated perspectives to Joshua Tree.
Tangents:
• Official: Joshua Tree National Park
• AllTrails Public: Official, Ryan Mt Tr
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us
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