About minutes west of Barker Dam is another very popular trail, the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. The parking area is just off Park Boulevard, so it is very accessible to visitors. The entire loop is only 1 mile, so it is perfect for hikers of all ages.
The entire trail is dotted with informative signs, that give a lot of insight into the geology, wildlife, and plants that live within Joshua Tree National Park. There are also some great climbing spots along the trail, so you might have some extra sights to enjoy.
After a slight climb up and over into the valley, the well-trodden path takes the form of an elongated loop. Feel free to go either direction. The entire trail is about a mile long, so almost everyone should be able to enjoy it.
I am an avid peak bagger, sometimes backpacker, and former sea kayaker living in San Diego. In 2019, I became the third person to complete the San Diego 100 Peak Challenge. Not stopping with that accomplishment, I set my sights on the harder San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list, which I completed in 2021. In addition, I have conquered several Six-Pack of Peaks challenges (SoCal, San Diego, Central Coast, and Arizona-Winter). Beyond attempting the San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peak list a second time, I am looking forward to exploring new summits and new adventures across the southwest.