Best Hikes at Beautiful Mojave National Preserve, California

Orange desert arch an sunrise with desert landscape and rock formations in the distance under a blue sky.

Southern California is not all just movie stars and beaches. There is a vast and awe-inspiring world of nature to explore, and one of the best hidden gems is the Mojave National Preserve. This beautiful wildland offers breathtaking scenery, exciting outdoor activities, and an unforgettable adventure right in our backyard. Let’s take a look at what makes this area so special, along with my picks for best hikes at Mojave Preserve!

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History of the Preserve

The history of Mojave National Preserve is a fascinating tale of how nature and human interaction have intertwined over the centuries. The area has been occupied by several Indigenous tribes, including the Chemehuevi, Serrano, and Mojave. The geology of the region is also a significant part of the story, with towering mountains, vast deserts, and unique rock formations like the Granite Mountains that offer a glimpse into the region’s geological past.

It was not until 1994, when the Mojave National Preserve was given national preserve designation, that the area gained the attention and protection it deserves. Through the efforts of conservationists, environmentalists, and local indigenous communities, the history of the Mojave National Preserve remains alive and well today, providing a beautiful destination for visitors to admire and respect.

View of a green joshua tree in the desert under a blue sky with low clouds. Best hikes at Mojave Preserve.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a trip to the Mojave National Preserve, it’s important to know your lodging options. There are three developed campground with restrooms and other facilities. They are Mid Hills, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Black Canyon. Dispersed camping is also permitted for a more secluded camping experience, just make sure you have a permit and are properly equipped.

If you prefer a bit more comfort, there are nearby towns that offer hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals. The closest towns with accommodations are Primm, NV, Searchlight, NV, and Needles, CA. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can find accommodations that suit your needs. Whether you choose to camp under the stars or snuggle up in a cozy vacation home, staying near the Mojave National Preserve allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning to visit Mojave National Preserve, it’s essential to understand what kind of weather you can expect. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re looking for milder weather, autumn is a great time to visit – not only are temperatures more moderate, but you’ll also get to experience the warm, earthy tones of autumn colors.

Winter temperatures can dip below freezing at night, but days are generally still pleasant enough for outdoor activities. Spring is another lovely season to plan your trip, although be prepared for occasional rain showers. Ultimately, the best time to visit Mojave National Preserve depends on what kind of climate and activities you enjoy the most.

View of vegetation in the desert with yellow and purple flowers with joshua trees in the background under a blue sky. Best hikes at Mojave Preserve.

What to Expect

Located northeast of Los Angeles, the Mojave National Preserve is one of the largest protected areas in the United States. Covering over 1.6 million acres of diverse terrain, this wilderness area is home to several unique ecosystems, including the Mojave Desert, the Joshua Tree woodland, and the Piute Mountains. For hikers and backpackers, this area offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, with trails ranging from easy to extremely challenging.

Sand Dunes

One of the must-do trails in the area is the Kelso Dunes trail, which takes you through the stunning landscape of the Mojave Desert. Here, you’ll find the largest sand dunes in the United States, towering up to 650 feet high. The dunes are a popular destination for hikers and sandboarders, and the panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking.

Trails

Another great adventure in Mojave National Preserve is the Hole-in-the-Wall trail. This trail takes you through a unique geological formation known as a “ring dyke,” which was formed by ancient volcanic activity. The trail leads up to the stunning “Hole-in-the-Wall” rock formation, which was carved out by millions of years of erosion. This area is also home to some fascinating wildlife, such as the elusive desert bighorn sheep.

Stargazing

For those who want to spend more than a day in the preserve, there are several fantastic camping options. One of the best is the Mid Hills campground, which offers stunning views of the Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree woodland. The campground is located in a secluded area of the preserve, and the peaceful surroundings make for a perfect night under the stars.

In addition, the Mojave National Preserve is a great place for stargazing. Thanks to the lack of light pollution in the area, the preserve offers some of the best starry night skies in the country. You can enjoy this unique experience by camping or by joining a night sky tour.

Best Hikes at Mojave Preserve

Kelso Dunes Trail

Hiking the Kelso Dunes Trail at Mojave National Preserve is an adventure of its own kind. This trail is a must-visit for all hiking enthusiasts out there. The trail length is approximately 3 miles, which may seem short, but with its sand-covered terrain, it is no easy feat. The elevation gain is about 600 feet, so be prepared for a challenge. Despite the rough conditions, the view from the top is breathtaking.

The trailhead is located near the Kelso Depot Visitor Center, where you can gather more information about the trail conditions before setting off on your journey. The trail provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature and to push your body to its limit. The unique experience of hiking up a dune makes this one of the best hikes at Mojave Preserve. So, pack your gear, prepare for the journey, and set off on the Kelso Dunes Trail – a trek that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Hikers in the distance walking on a large sand dune under a partly cloudy sky at dusk. Best Hikes at Mojave Preserve.

Teutonia Peak Trail

Are you looking for a challenging but rewarding hiking adventure? Look no further than the Teutonia Peak Trail at Mojave National Preserve. With a length of just over three miles, this trail offers a variety of conditions and terrain, including some steep uphill sections and rocky terrain. Hikers will gain elevation as they climb towards the summit, but the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Mojave Desert make it all worth it. The trailhead is located off the beaten path, but the intimate experience with nature is well worth the journey. Don’t forget your camera, as the views at the top of Teutonia Peak are truly breathtaking. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.

Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail

Looking for a unique hiking experience? Then look no further than the Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail at Mojave National Preserve. This 2-mile trail is a bit challenging in some areas, with steep climbs, and rocky terrain. There’s one super steep section with metal rings to help climb through it (hence the name). But as you make your way up the trail, the sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape will make it all worth it. The trailhead can be found at the Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, and while conditions can be unpredictable, with proper preparation and planning, this hike is definitely one to add to your bucket list. The incredible climb on the rings up through a slot canyon makes this one of the best hikes at Mojave Preserve. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to conquer the Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail!

View looking up into a slot canyon with metal rings for hikers to climb up through the canyon. Best hikes at Mojave Preserve.

Silver Peak Trail

The Silver Peak Trail at Mojave National Preserve is a must-hike for any serious outdoor enthusiast. With a length just over four miles, this trail is the perfect day hike for those looking for a challenge. It’s important to note that the conditions and terrain can be rugged at times, but the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape make it all worth it. As you make your way up the trail, the elevation gain is rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Hole-In-The-Wall Visitor Center, making it easy to access. Lace up your boots and hit the trail for an unforgettable adventure.

Barber Peak Loop Trail

Are you ready to take on the Barber Peak Loop Trail at Mojave National Preserve? This challenging but rewarding hike is perfect for experienced hikers who are looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Mojave Desert. With a length of 6.5 miles, this trail will take you through a variety of conditions and terrains, including rocky outcroppings, sandy washes, and steep hills.

Prepare for a significant elevation gain; The trail climbs up to 2,220 feet at its highest point. You’ll start your hike at the Black Canyon Road Trailhead and wind through the foothills before ascending towards Barber Peak. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the surrounding desert landscape, including the Cima Dome and the Clark Mountains. The expansive views from the top make this one of the best hikes at Mojave Preserve. If you’re up for a challenging adventure and breathtaking views, don’t miss out on the Barber Peak Loop Trail.

Desert trail through green vegetation through rock formations under a blue sky. Best hikes at Mojave Preserve.

What to Wear

My clothing recommendations for hiking at Mojave Preserve varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.

On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the limestone and granite out there!

The Mojave National Preserve is a hidden gem of Southern California. This vast wilderness area offers a unique combination of stunning scenery, exciting outdoor activities, and peaceful solitude. Whether you’re a hiker, backpacker, or just a traveler looking for a new adventure, the Mojave National Preserve is a must-see. So, grab your hiking boots and head out to this beautiful wildland for an unforgettable experience.

That’s my list! I hope this helped you plan and get excited for the best hikes at Mojave Preserve! What are your favorite hikes in this beautiful area?

As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.

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