Date: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 (same day as Queen Elizabeth’s birthday).
Description: Willow Hole is an out and back trail in Joshua Tree National Park near the Wonderland of Rocks that features beautiful wild flowers (and classic Joshua Tree rock formations. The trail travels through open desert into a wash that narrows as it winds through tall boulder piles. Views to the west are quite good, especially of Mt. San Gorgonio (11,499') in the San Bernardino Wilderness. The wash widens just before Willow Hole where the trail ends at a chokepoint in the wash where a seasonal waterhole lies under a willow tree. Water levels at Willow Hole are dependent on annual rainfall and time of year. Plan on lunch at Willow Hole before returning back the same way.
- Trail Length: 6.8 miles total
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 246 feet
- Difficulty Rating: moderate plus
- Trail Type: out and back.
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree Park entrance fee
Departure Time: 7:30 AM (Please arrive early for 7:30 am departure)
Departure Location: Walmart Supercenter in Palm Springs at 5601 E. Ramon Road, Map Click Here. Meet at the north/east corner parking lot between 7:15 and 7:30 a.m.
Bring: Face cover, Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
This is a pilot test for reopening protocols. Hike leaders will have priority to sign up first. Registration will be available to all members beginning April 14.
Hiking Requirements: Although the trail is fairly level, the elevation is at 4000 feet so you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Carpooling: Carpooling is not recommended except for members of same household. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing before departure at 7:30 AM.
Hike leaders: Beth Schneider and Scott Connelly
Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Contact Hike Leaders: click here
Photos: https://www.outdoorblueprint.com/national-parks/joshua-tree/hike-willow-hole-trail/
Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
Special COVID Related Requirements:
Participants must comply with the following requirements as a condition of registering for this event:
- I will follow Federal, State and local COVID guidelines as well as the directions of the leader.
- I will maintain social distance (min. 6') and wear a face mask if social distancing is not possible
- I will not attend if feeling ill or have any symptoms of COVID.
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I will contact trip leader if I test positive for COVID within 14 days of the event
‘I Accept’ and will comply with these requirements as a condition of participating in this event.
