If you’re eager to explore the stunning desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, the Split Rock Trail is the perfect hike for you!
This 2.5-mile loop immerses you in the park’s vibrant plant life, towering boulders, and rich cultural history.
Native American groups like the Cahuilla and Serrano once used these rock formations for shelter, tools, and spiritual practices.
The trail’s namesake, Split Rock, is a massive boulder cracked by natural forces, showcasing the park’s fascinating geology shaped by volcanic activity and erosion.
Easy to follow and great for all skill levels, the trail also offers optional rock scrambling for the adventurous.
If you’re up for more, a connecting trail leads to incredible spots like Face Rock and Skull Rock – totally worth the extra miles!
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Split Rock Loop: Trail Stats + Map
Split Rock Loop Trail Stats
Starting Point: Split Rock Trailhead
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, pets are not allowed
Hike Features: Split Rock, Face Rock, Skull Rock, lots of boulders for climbing
Split Rock Loop Trail Map
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!
Split Rock Trailhead 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.
🅿️ There are other parking options near the Split Rock Trail:
Best Time to Hike Split Rock Loop
The fall and spring months offer mild temperatures, making these seasons the most comfortable for exploring.
Winter is also a magical time to visit, especially if you get a chance to see the desert covered in a layer of snow!
Summer can be extremely hot, so visit early or later in the day.
⚠️ Summer Safety Tips
- Carry plenty of water and include electrolytes to stay hydrated.
- Hike early or late to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Use sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight sun-protective clothing.
- Check the weather and avoid hiking in extreme heat.
- Pack snacks, a first-aid kit, and a map or GPS device.
- Wear moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Watch for signs of heat-related illness, like dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, and confusion, and act quickly if symptoms appear.
- Take breaks in the shade and pace yourself to prevent overexertion.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles by carrying out trash and staying on trails. (this rule applies for any day of the year – help keep the outdoors pristine for future visitors!)
Split Rock Loop 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! 🥳
Tips for Hiking Split Rock Loop
1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
2. Bring Plenty of Water and 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.
3. 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.
4. Sun Protection: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
5. 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.
6. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.
More Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
- Visit Cholla Cactus Garden – watch sunrise and hike a short trail surrounded by teddy bear cholla cacti!
- 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.
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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