Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Trail · Twentynine Palms, California
Hidden Valley
Enclosed valley with walls of rounded rock in Joshua Tree National Park, featuring a roughly 1.6 km loop trail among Joshua trees and giant boulders, popular with climbers.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is a small valley closed off by granite walls in the center of Joshua Tree National Park. According to local history, late‑19th‑century cattle rustlers hid stolen stock there, taking advantage of the fact that the only entrance was narrow.
A roughly 1.6 km loop trail runs through the valley among rounded rocks, Joshua trees, yuccas and desert shrubs, with panels about the vegetation and wildlife. The rocks, formed from granite that fractured and was rounded by erosion over millions of years, are one of the park’s most sought‑after climbing spots.
Nearby are picnic areas, a campground and other famous points such as Skull Rock and Barker Dam, a small reservoir built by ranchers.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one hour to one and a half hours.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, with less heat and attractive light on the rocks. In summer, only early morning.
How to get there
It is on Park Boulevard, inside the park, about 30 km south of Twentynine Palms and 15 km from the west entrance. Vehicle entrance fees apply to the park.
Tip
Bring more water than you think you’ll need: there is no water in Hidden Valley or in most of the park.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hidden Valley
How long is the Hidden Valley trail?
About 1.6 km, a loop, with little elevation change.
Why is the valley called Hidden Valley?
According to local history, cattle thieves used to hide animals there, taking advantage of the narrow entrance between the rocks.
Can you climb in Hidden Valley?
Yes, it’s one of the park’s most popular climbing areas for those with experience and equipment.