Hiking the Lost Palms Oasis Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a unique experience. The trail is in the southern part of the park, which has more of a Sonoran Desert feel than the majority of hikes in the northern part of the park. You won't see any Joshua Trees on the Lost Palms Oasis Trail, but you will see the park's largest grove of California fan palm trees, tucked into a hidden canyon. There are no big climbs as you make your way over the ridges and washes through the desert. It's a fun desert hike that's worth your time.
In this Guide:
Lost Palms Oasis Trail Turn-by-Turn Directions & Video
The Lost Palms Oaisis Trail is in the southern part of Joshua Tree National Park and uses the Cottonwood Spring parking area as the trailhead. Parking can get crowded quickly. Arrive at sunrise for the best hike (and parking!) experience.
There is no backcountry camping in this section of the park because it's a protected area for bighorn sheep. If you want to camp, you can stay at Cottonwood Campground.
Gear for the Hike
The hike to Lost Palms Oasis takes a few hours through the desert, so prepare accordingly. I wear regular hiking gear, carry 3L of water, and have hiking boots. I also recommend a GPS unit with this hike's GPX file loaded (available below) in case you get confused or lost. Don't do this hike in the hot summer months. There is no shade or protection from the sun.
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
Garmin InReach Mini 2Hit SOS or just tell loved ones that you're running late where your cell phone has no service. Review here.
Topo MTN RacerAggressive and fun with a wide toe box (=no blisters). Get them wet, they dry quickly. Lots of cushion and comfort.
Osprey Hikelite 26Lightweight, carries all your gear, and your back doesn't get sweaty. Oh yea, it's also one of the most inexpensive packs you can get.
The trail to Lost Palm Oasis is marked and maintained by the Parks Service. There are signs along the route, and there are also stones that block off side trails. Make sure you pay attention to the route. When you hike back, you'll have to do it in reverse, and it's easy to take an incorrect trail mistakingly. And again, having a GPS will be helpful as you make your way across the desert.