If you’re eager to experience the stunning desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, with its vibrant plant life, towering boulders, and unique rock formations, then I have the perfect hike for you!
The Split Rock Loop Trail is a captivating 2.5-mile loop that takes you through Joshua Tree’s diverse landscape of towering boulders, winding sand paths, and iconic Joshua Trees.
The trail is relatively easy to follow and perfect for hikers of all skill levels! Also, there are opportunities for rock scrambling over large boulders if that’s your thing.
For those who crave a bit more adventure, there’s another trail that connects to Split Rock Loop which leads to even more incredible rock formations, including Face Rock and Skull Rock.
If you’re up for the challenge, I highly recommend this detour – it’s absolutely worth the few extra miles!
Split Rock Loop: Overview
Trailhead Location: Located at the end of Split Rock Road.
Length: 2.5 miles (5-6 total miles if adding Face Rock and Skull Rock to this hike)
Elevation Gain: 270 feet
Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Rating: Easy (moderate if adding Face and Skull Rock)
Pet-friendly? No
Hike Features: Split Rock, Face Rock, Skull Rock, lots of boulders for climbing
The Split Rock Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is not only a stunning hike, but also one that immerses visitors in the park’s rich natural and cultural history.
The land has been inhabited by various Native American groups, including the Cahuilla and Serrano peoples, who used the desert’s natural resources for thousands of years.
They used the boulders and rock formations you see along the trail for practical purposes, such as providing shelter and tools, and for spiritual practices.
The trail is named after Split Rock, a massive boulder that has a crack down the middle due to the forces of nature, creating a striking landmark.
These boulders are part of the park’s larger geological history, formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity and erosion.
As you hike, you’ll be walking through a land that has seen countless changes, from ancient seas to the rise of the Mojave Desert.
Directions and Parking
Split Rock is located within Joshua Tree National Park about 10 miles from the Oasis Visitor Center and about 27 miles from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center.
The Split Rock Trailhead is located at the end of Split Rock Road. There is a road sign indicating when to turn off from Park Boulevard to reach the trailhead. The dirt road leading to the trailhead is suitable for all vehicles.
The parking lot is fairly big but fills up quickly during the busy season.
🌵 READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
If you don’t mind hiking a few extra miles, there are other parking options near the Split Rock Trail:
Tips for Hiking Split Rock Loop
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).
- Wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
Sun Protection: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
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.
FAQs – Split Rock Loop Edition
Is there a fee to enter Joshua Tree National Park?
Yes, there is an 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!
Can I hike Split Rock Loop in the summer?
While Split Rock Trail is best enjoyed in the spring, fall, or winter, many visitors flock to the park in summer since it’s often the only time they can make the trip.
⚠️ Here are a few safety tips if visiting in the summer:
- 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.
Be smart and be safe out there if visiting in the summer!
Trail Directions
Quick funny story! My husband and I hiked this trail in March 2023.
We started in the opposite direction (clockwise) as compared to everyone else who went counterclockwise.
We were searching for the Split Rock the entire time but didn’t know which cracked boulder was the actual Split Rock.
We completed the loop and found a picnic table at the trailhead to eat lunch.
Right in front of our faces was… the Split Rock!
We had no idea it was literally at the trailhead. Silly us. 🤭
Split Rock Loop Trail (+ cave)
Anyway, it’s your turn to hike this trail! It’s recommended to hike this loop counterclockwise.
So, start by hiking to the left of Split Rock along the Split Rock Trail.
On the other side of the Split Rock is a neat little cave.
I read that native people used this cave thousands of years ago.
Please respect this area (and everywhere else in this national park) and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Follow the trail signs and trail markers the best you can.
Some sections can be a bit confusing as you will encounter more false or social trails that can cause you to go off trail.
Make sure to have an offline map to help you stay on the main trail.
Trail Junction
You will eventually reach a junction in the trail.
If you only want to do the Split Rock Trail, then follow the trail sign to remain on that trail.
If you plan to only hike the Split Rock Trail, directions continue below…
Face Rock (optional)
But if you want to see a few more awesome rock formations and you don’t mind adding a few more miles to the hike, then take a right to get onto the Face Rock Trail.
From the side this giant rock really does look like a side profile of a face!
But from the front… not even recognizable.
Skull Rock (optional)
Follow the Face Rock Trail until you merge onto the Discovery Trail. You will soon reach Skull Rock.
This is probably one of my favorite rock formations in Joshua Tree National Park.
Retrace your steps back to the junction in the trail to return to the Split Rock Trail.
Finish Split Rock Loop
Follow the Split Rock Loop Trail until you return to the trailhead parking area.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
More Things to Do in Joshua Tree
- Hike the Wall Street Mill Trail and discover the incredible history of Joshua Tree’s land.
- Hike the Arch Rock Trail and see the iconic Arch Rock as well as Heart Rock.
- Watch sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden and hike a short trail through the garden.
Conclusion
The Split Rock Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a captivating journey through the park’s iconic desert landscape.
With its cool rock formations, easy-to-follow path, and peaceful desert vibes, it’s a perfect hike for anyone looking to soak in the scenery without too much effort.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a peaceful nature walk, the Split Rock Loop Trail delivers a memorable adventure that showcases Joshua Tree’s beauty.
If this guide inspires you to hike the Split Rock Loop, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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