PS - Hike: Garretts Arch Joshua Tree Park

  • Fri, April 21, 2023
  • 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
  • Joshua Tree National Park

Registration


Registration is closed

Garrett's Arch & Wall Street Mill

(Wonderland of Rocks) Joshua Tree National Park

Explore one of the crowning treasures of Joshua Tree National Park: the world-famous Wonderland of Rocks. This stunning 12-square-mile maze of massive monzogranite boulders hides secret groves of Joshua trees, trackless washes, and seasonal desert pools. The journey begins with a walk out to the historical Wall Street Mill, a well-preserved piece of the park's gold-mining past.

From there, you leave the established trail behind to dive deep into a labyrinth of stone. You will navigate narrow, off-trail canyons, sweeping washes, and towering granite pinnacles showcasing incredible geological features. Finding your way to the hidden Garrett's Arch requires significant, hands-on scrambling over, under, and around large boulders where secure handholds and steady footing are absolutely essential.

  • Distance: 4.0 miles (Loop)
  • Hiking Time: Approx. 3 hours
  • Elevation Gain/Loss: 330 feet | Trailhead Elevation: 4,200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: Moderate Plus (Requires hands-on agility, good balance, and a comfort with heights/exposure).
  • Terrain: Rocky trails, sandy washes, dry waterfalls, and massive monzogranite boulder piles.
  • Type: Combination of established trail and mostly off-trail route-finding. 
  • Fees: National Park entrance fee or valid Interagency Park Pass required.
  • Essential Gear: Sturdy hiking boots with excellent tread are mandatory. Lightweight gloves are highly recommended to protect your hands from the abrasive granite.
  • Pack: Bring the Ten Essentials, 2 to 3 liters of water, trail snacks, a packed lunch, and layered clothing for changing desert temperatures. Always carry your emergency contact information.
  • Meeting Locations:

8:00 AM Meet at PetSmart Palm Springs click here, or at Joshua Tree West Entrance Station parking area next to restrooms at 8:45. 

Park entrance fee or park pass required.

Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), trail snacks/lunch. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Gloves may be helpful.

Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are essential. 

Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

Contact Hike Leader: Scott Connelly email click here

Carpooling  may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.  Distance to trailhead is 50 miles .

Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.

Health Problems/allergies  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 


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