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Split Rock Loop, Joshua Tree CA

• 5-star hike
• 2 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 270 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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The image shows a landscape with large, rugged rock formations under a clear blue sky. The rocks are light brown and have various shapes and sizes, creating a dramatic and rugged terrain. There are some desert plants, such as shrubs and possibly yucca, at the base of the rocks.

The image shows a landscape with large, rugged rock formations under a clear blue sky. The rocks are light brown and have various shapes and sizes, creating a dramatic and rugged terrain. There are some desert plants, such as shrubs and possibly yucca, at the base of the rocks.

The Split Rock looms large over the trailhead.

Many visitors snap a quick photo at Split Rock and immediately move on to the park's more famous landmarks. Those who rush past may be missing one of Joshua Tree's most rewarding experiences. The Split Rock Loop Trail offers an easy two-mile journey through stunning rocky landscape, with surreal stone formations and spectacular views from every angle.

Millions of years of weathering have sculpted monzogranite boulders into fantastical forms. Rocky arches frame the desert sky while narrow gaps create natural windows for dramatic sunlight. Part of the trail's charm lies in discovering unexpected shapes—faces, animals, and comically proportioned heads emerge from the stone to spark your imagination.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Split Rock Loop 2.0 mi loop, easy, gain 270 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ NPS entrance fee

The well-marked path winds through boulder corridors and across open desert terrain dotted with Joshua trees. The relatively flat terrain and short distance make this loop accessible for families and hikers of varying abilities, though sturdy footwear is recommended.

Timing matters. Golden hour bathes the rust-colored rocks in warm light that intensifies their hues and creates dramatic shadows. During our late afternoon visit, we shared the trail with only a few people while bird calls echoed off the rocks. The parking lot gates close at sunset, so plan accordingly.

The image shows a desert landscape with a sandy path leading through rocky terrain. Large boulders and rock formations are visible on both sides of the path, with some vegetation, including bushes and small desert plants, scattered throughout the scene. The sky is clear, suggesting it is either early morning or late afternoon, as the sun is low on the horizon, casting a warm glow on the rocks.

The image shows a desert landscape with a sandy path leading through rocky terrain. Large boulders and rock formations are visible on both sides of the path, with some vegetation, including bushes and small desert plants, scattered throughout the scene. The sky is clear, suggesting it is either early morning or late afternoon, as the sun is low on the horizon, casting a warm glow on the rocks.

Sun setting on the Split Rock Loop Trail.

The surrounding area offers more to explore. Just south along Park Boulevard, Face Rock displays humanoid features while Skull Rock's hollow eye sockets have made it one of the park's most photographed spots. Jumbo Rocks nearby offers additional scrambling opportunities.

Arch Rock Natural Arch lies ten minutes southwest by car, requiring a half-mile walk from its trailhead. Combining Split Rock Loop with these neighboring attractions creates a comprehensive tour of Joshua Tree's most accessible geological features.

The image shows a panoramic view of a desert landscape with large rock formations and scattered vegetation. The rocks are smooth and rounded, with some towering higher than others, creating an interesting and varied terrain. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a sunny day.

The image shows a panoramic view of a desert landscape with large rock formations and scattered vegetation. The rocks are smooth and rounded, with some towering higher than others, creating an interesting and varied terrain. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a sunny day.

Walking within the rocky landscape is a surreal experience.

Tangents:
• Official: Joshua Tree National Park
• AllTrails Public: Split Rock Loop, Arch Rock
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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Split Rock Loop, Joshua Tree CA