Hike begins in Quail Springs picnic parking area among classic stacked boulders. Hiking west we can view Mt. Minerva Hoyt as we access the Johnny Lang Connector trail. This trail’s destination is a masterpiece of weather shaped desert geology. In this isolated and beautiful place, mysteries abound. We’ll visit artifacts from past mining days.
- Trail Length: 6.5 miles
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 700 feet
- Trailhead Elevation: 4,000 feet
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate Plus, includes off-trail, dense vegetation, and some scrambling. Generally challenging for an unconditioned person*
- Type: Trail, and off-trail routes
- Trail Route: Loop
- Terrain: Rocky trail, sandy areas, dry waterfalls
- Hiking time approx. 3.5 hrs.
We hike the first branch on straightforward constructed trail. At the end of this first trail, we start to enter the other branch of the canyon. Transitioning to the other canyon involves some cross-country walking in or along a dry riverbed with some scrambling over or around rocks. After a short amount of this, we pick up a trail which we follow all the way through this branch of the canyon till we reach wide, flat Quail Springs Historic Trail for our return to Quail Springs.
8:00 AM - Meet at PetSmart Palm Springs map click here, or at Joshua Tree Entrance Station parking area next to restrooms map click here at 8:45.
Park entrance fee or park pass required.
Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), trail snacks/lunch. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.
Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are essential.
*Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Contact Hike Leader: Scott Connelly email click here
Carpooling may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Distance to trailhead is 50 miles.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.
