Hidden Valley

Reportedly, Bill Keys dynamited a few boulders to allow cattle to gain entrance in 1921. I’m unsure if that story is true, but Hidden Valley certainly would make for a great corral. A sign along the nature trail says it happened in 1936, so sources vary.

The sign at the trailhead mentions how, in the 1870s, the McHaney Gang rustled cattle and horses from Southern California and Arizona and hid out in the area but not inside of Hidden Valley itself. The McHaneys were also involved over at the Desert Queen Mine.

Directions

Hike: Easy hike, 1 mile Loop, 120 ft gain round trip. 30 minutes.

The trailhead is easy to find in the Hidden Valley Picnic Area of Joshua Tree National Park. It is on the right and near the restroom as you drive into the paved parking lot.

Hidden Valley (like nearby Barker Dam) is one of those quintessential hikes in Joshua Tree. It is included here because of that fact. It is popular and quite beautiful.

The simple short loop trail is more of a nature trail than a hike, but it is still well worth doing if you've never been on it before. And while it’s unlikely you will be alone on this trail, that shouldn’t stop you from walking this loop at least once. This completely enclosed valley is a quick way to marvel at a section of the Wonderland of Rocks. It is also an excellent walk for children.