Loading trail…
Desert Tortoise (Contact Mine)
Free — you'll pick up right here.
Save this plan
Sign up to save your own editable copy — you'll pick up right here.
California
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Desert Tortoise (Contact Mine)
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No elevation data on file for this trail.
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
The Contact Mine Trail is an out-and-back hike to a historic mining site. It is 4-miles round trip with 700 feet of elevation gain. The trail begins in a sandy wash then ascends a rocky mountainside to the mine. The hike features expansive views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to view mining artifacts used a century ago. Do not handle or remove any historic artifacts from the site. <br /> <br /> This trail is a great option if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy more solitude. After abundant winter rains, this trail offers a vibrant springtime display of wildflowers. <br /> <br /> For more information on wildflowers, visit our <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/blooms.htm">Wildflower Viewing Page</a>.
Oasis of Mara Trailhead
~7 min drive
<p paraeid="{0f90b7a3-7310-4098-aeb5-a3e564b9b7cc}{52}" paraid="2146096911">The Oasis of Mara Trail is a peaceful, 0.5-mile paved trail that winds around a fan palm oasis. The trail is great for visitors looking for an easy stroll and offers a fantastic opportunity for birdwat…
Pine City Trailhead
~7 min drive
<p>Pine City Trailhead is located in the central portion of the park at the east end of Queen Valley Road. This trailhead provides access to the Pine City Trail and the Lucky Boy Vista Trail. The Pine City Trail is a four mile out and back mostly sand and level trail with occa…
Lucky Boy Loop Trailhead
~8 min drive
<p paraeid="{52b92e0a-0a54-4723-a658-5668a4beb5b9}{82}" paraid="1852801838">Lucky Boy Loop is a 3.25-mile hike with 555 ft of elevation gain. This loop leads hikers through diverse scenery of desert vegetation, rock formations, vista points, and the remains of Elton Mine. Look…
Skull Rock and Discovery Trail Trailheads
~9 min drive
Located along Park Boulevard between Jumbo Rocks and Live Oak, these trailheads provide access to the Skull Rock Nature Trail and the Discovery Trail. The Skull Rock Nature Trail is a 1.7 mile loop that can be started from trailheads on either side of the road. The north side…
Discovery Trailhead
~9 min drive
<p paraeid="{a6af408c-b51b-47d4-92a5-8619324a9b92}{204}" paraid="862142058">The Discovery Trail is a 0.7-mile (1.1km) loop hike with 70ft (21.3m) of elevation gain and diverse views of the jumbo rocks area. Hike this trail through sandy washes, boulder piles, and unique rock f…
Geology (Skull Rock)
~9 min drive
Skull Rock is a popular destination along Park Boulevard just east of Jumbo Rocks Campground. Formed over many millennia, water drops have slowly eroded two large holes into the rock to make the rock resemble a skull. Skull Rock can be reached by the Skull Rock Nature Trail ju…
California Riding and Hiking Trail at Geology Tour Road
~11 min drive
<p>Take a hike east or west from here on the California Riding and Hiking Trail. Carry water with you. The California Riding and Hiking Trail is 37 miles total, but smaller sections are popular day-hikes. This trailhead is in the middle of the California Riding and Hiking Trai…
Indian Cove Wilderness Backpacking Board
~13 min drive
The Indian Cove Wilderness Backcountry Board is located at the beginning of the Lower Boy Scout Trail, aka the north end of the Boy Scout Trail in Indian Cove. This trailhead provides access to the Boy Scout Trail, which in turn connects to several other trails for longer hike…
Ryan Mountain Trailhead
~13 min drive
<p paraeid="{8cc8f37b-3c36-45c6-83d6-94e72c114c11}{25}" paraid="396559091">Ryan Mountain is a 3-mile (round trip) out-and-back hike with 1,050 feet of elevation gain. The summit rewards hikers with one of the best 360-degree views of any trail in the park. From the summit, you…
Echo T Trailhead
~13 min drive
Take the Echo T Trail to connect to the Barker Dam Trail from the Echo T parking lot. This trail follows a wash near unique rock formations. Meander among Joshua trees and other desert plants. Watch for climbers or try to spot desert bighorn sheep. Get ready for a minor rock s…
Also worth it near here
