If you’re a fan of one-of-a-kind rock formations, you can’t miss this gem on your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary! Picture yourself strolling along the serene Arch Rock Trail, immersing yourself in the breathtaking desert scenery. As you wander, you’ll encounter a mesmerizing array of ancient rock creations, but none quite as captivating as Heart Rock and Arch Rock. These natural wonders stand as testaments to the park’s geological history, inviting you to explore, photograph, and marvel at their unique beauty.
If you venture past Heart Rock or Arch Rock, make sure you’ve packed a map and compass, and have good directional skills to navigate this off-trail terrain. Embrace the challenge but always know your limits. Lace up your hiking boots, tread carefully, and get ready to discover a whole new dimension of the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes!
Hiking Arch Rock: Overview
Trailhead Location: Located at the Twin Tanks parking area.
Length: 1.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 110 feet
Hiking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Route Type: Lollipop
Difficulty Rating: Easy
Pet-friendly? No
Hike Features: Heart Rock, Arch Rock, and lots of nearby boulders for climbing
Joshua Tree Entrance Fee
Entrance to Joshua Tree National Park costs $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free! For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!
Directions and Parking
Arch Rock is located near Belle Campground and White Tank Campground within Joshua Tree National Park.
The trailhead to Arch Rock and Heart Rock is located at the Twin Tanks parking area, which is on the west side of Pinto Basin Road, about 1 mile south of Belle Campground.
The parking lot is fairly big but fills up fast during the busy season. Read my blog about how to avoid crowds in the great outdoors so you can have a better experience!
Tips for Hiking Arch Rock
Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the summer. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during the hike.
Footwear and Gear: Some sections of this trail can be rocky, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
False Trails: Hiking trails within Joshua Tree National Park can be confusing due to difficulty following the trail markers (or lack thereof). I highly recommend downloading offline maps and having a physical map and compass in your backpack just in case you get off trail.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep Joshua Tree pristine for future hikers.
Summer Safety Tips:
- Be sure to bring plenty of water with you to stay hydrated, as dehydration can occur quickly in warm temperatures.
- Eat high-carb and salty snacks to help keep your energy levels up and replenish electrolytes.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try to hike during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.
- Take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Trail Directions
Twin Tanks Parking Area
From the Twin Tanks parking area, head towards the south end of the parking lot and follow the trail past an informational kiosk. The trail will soon cross the Pinto Basin Road.
Arch Rock Trail
Take a right onto the Arch Rock Trail. Follow this trail through the open desert landscape to a giant boulder field straight ahead.
In about 0.6 miles you will reach a junction in the trail. One way goes to Arch Rock and the other towards Heart Rock. I recommend stopping by Heart Rock first. So, take a left at the junction.
Heart Rock
There used to not be a trail to Heart Rock, so it was very difficult to find. But now, there is a well-marked trail leading towards the beautiful rock formation.
Heart Rock is about 10-12 feet tall and is a naturally formed granite boulder. It faces both east and west, but the best view is from the east because it looks more like a heart on that side. We only viewed it from the west side but still awesome!
Arch Rock
Retrace your steps to return to the junction in the trail and follow the signs for Arch Rock. There are different spots to view the Arch Rock. Explore around and be careful when climbing the rocks!
Arch Rock stretches over 30 feet long. It’s a very popular spot so expect to see other people. Try to get there early to beat the crowd!
Beyond Arch Rock
If you’re up for hiking a little bit more and climbing up and over big boulders, then I suggest heading past Arch Rock. The boulder field past this point is amazing to explore! It was honestly my favorite part of this hike.
I found a rock that looks like a kidney bean! Not sure if anyone has claimed a name for this rock, but it will be the Kidney Bean Rock to me.
Return back to Arch Rock and complete the small loop. You will quickly be back to the same junction in the trail as earlier.
Retrace your steps to finish the out-and-back portion of the trail back to the parking lot.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
Alternate Route: White Tanks Campground to Arch Rock
If you are NOT camping at the White Tank Campground, then you cannot park at their parking lot. However, if you are camping at that campground then you have an even shorter hike to reach Arch Rock and Heart Rock.
🏕️ Learn more about camping at White Tank Campground HERE!
From the White Tank Campground to Arch Rock is only 0.3 miles roundtrip. Add a little bit more distance if heading to Heart Rock. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow!
More Things to Do in Joshua Tree
- Hike along the Split Rock Trail and take a side quest to see unique rock formations, including Face Rock and Skull Rock.
- Hike the Wall Street Mill Trail and discover the incredible history of Joshua Tree’s land.
- Watch sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden and hike a short trail through the garden.
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