One of the shortest hikes in Joshua Tree is the Cholla Cactus Gardens, located in the Pinto Basin.
From the parking lot, the quarter-mile, self-guided, loop trail consists of hard surfaces and boardwalks, making it accessible for almost everyone. There is no shade, so it is wise to wear a hat and long sleeves.
There is an information plaque and a warning sign, along with some disinfectant wipes at the entrance.
We pulled into the parking lot, grabbed some water and wandered along the circular trail. There are two entrances, we decided to go anti-clockwise.
The trail is mostly hard sand, but it did get soft in some areas. Boardwalks have also been built over low lying areas. This is the only area in the park where the Cholla grows and it is approximately 10 acres.
Cholla cactus gardens – Joshua Tree trail photo gallery
Interesting and dangerous, this teddybear cactus, although it sounds cute and cuddly, can reach out and grab you, which you don’t want! Their spikes seem almost magnetic to your skin, which is a desert survival defence mechanism. A very effective one, and once embedded, it is nearly impossible for them to be removed and medical assistance is normally called for. It is extremely wise to stay on the trail and not to get too close to the prickly “bears!”
We saw several lizards along the way. Some scuttled across the desert sand, others, like this little chap above, sat “sun-bathing” and lifting opposite feet in the air, so they didn’t burn on the scalding rock.
Along the way was a large boulder which looks like it has drill marks.
We spent about twenty minutes strolling along the path before heading back to the car and into the airconditioning.
A nature trail brochure can be obtained from the visitor centre, which explains about the habitat and the Cholla Cactus.
in A Nutshell
- 0.25-mile easy loop hike – wheelchair accessible
- Watch for snakes and other bities
- Beware of the teddybear cholla cactus – don’t get too close or touch them
- Wear suitable clothing
- Take plenty of water – even on small hikes
- Pets are NOT ALLOWED on any of the park’s trails
Remember: Take only photos, and leave only footprints. Pack it in, pack it out. Preserve this site for others to enjoy.
location map – CHOLLA CACTUS GARDENS – JOSHUA TREE
OTHER SHORT HIKES IN JOSHUA TREE
- Barker Dam – 1.3-mile loop (easy)
- Desert Queen Ranch/Keys Ranch – only accessible with a guided tour
- Hidden Valley – 1-mile loop trail
- Mastodon Mine & Cottonwood Springs – approximately 3-mile loop moderate hike
- Ryan Ranch & Lost Horse Mine – 0.5-mile sandy trail
- Silver Bell Mine – 2-mile round trip
- Wonderland Ranch & Wall Street Mill – 3-mile out and back hike
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