Overview
Fortynine Palms Oasis is a natural palm oasis set in a canyon at the northern edge of Joshua Tree National Park. The parking lot and trailhead are just a few minutes outside of the town of Twentynine Palms.
The trail climbs 350 feet over a ridge before descending 300 feet to the oasis. Along the way, there are plentiful red barrel cactus, beavertail cactus, and desert wildflowers.
Quick Facts
- Distance: 3 miles out and back
- Hike Time: 2-3 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 350 feet
- Fee: Free
- Dogs: No
- Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking to Fortynine Palms Oasis
The hike begins at a parking area at the end of Canyon Road, which becomes Fortynine Palms Canyon Road. The road closes from sundown to sunrise to help protect wildlife from being disturbed.
The trail to the oasis is short, straightforward, and easy to follow. It has great views of Twentynine Palms and Fortynine Palms Oasis along the way.
Once you reach the oasis, there are lots of narrow trails that wind up through the palms. You can scramble over granite boulders up on the ridge or continue up the drainage to get a better view of the oasis.
This may seem like an easy, low impact hike on paper, but don’t underestimate it! According to the park service, there were “five helicopter rescues and eight carryouts” last year alone.
Unfortunately, these hikers’ medical issues were exasperated by the dry, hot conditions that are commonplace in the Mojave Desert.
Carry lots of water, electrolytes, and more food than you need. Also wear sun protection, including 50 SPF sunscreen and a wide-brim hat.
Map
Location
The trailhead for Fortynine Palms Oasis is a paved parking lot at the end of Canyon Road. From the Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms, drive north on Utah Trail then take a left on Highway 62. After 5 miles, turn right onto Canyon Road and follow it 1 mile to the lot.
Get Directions
Resources
Topographic Map
- Nat Geo – Joshua Tree National Park
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