Joshua Tree National Park · California

Willow Hole

2.2 mi of trail, end to end · Hike Willow Hole: 7 mi round trip in the Service's write-up · about 20 ft of climbing · 100 ft of descent · 4,039 ft–4,161 ft · earth surface · trail class Moderately Developed · hiking

4,139 ft 4,041 ft · 2.2 mi high 4,161 ft

Hike Willow Hole 7 mi round trip · the Park Service's write-up

3-5 Hours · no dogs · Winter, Spring, Fall

Start Boyscout Trailhead

wo hikers walk along a sandy trail surrounded by golden vegetation and tall granite rock formations
Hikers exploring the wonderland of rocks, an area filled with unique granite rock formations. Photo: NPS / Emily Hassell

The Willow Hole Trail is an out-and-back hike that ventures into the Wonderland of Rocks. It is 7 miles roundtrip and has 246 feet of elevation gain. The hike begins at the Boy Scout Trailhead and initially follows the same path as the Boy Scout Trail. After 1.2 miles, the trail splits off to the right (northeast) and heads 2.3 miles to Willow Hole. Look for cottonwood and willow trees in this area. Occasionally, Willow Hole will have a small pool of water during and after periods of rainfall. If you spot wildlife at the water souce please observe from a distance and do not approach.

The first part of the trail to Willow Hole features expansive views of the desert and distant mountains. The second part of the trail follows washes into the Wonderland of Rocks, a labyrinth of cliffs, canyons, domes, and unique rock formations. During this section, pay close attention to following the trail signs and correct wash.

Overnight camping is not allowed at Willow Hole or in the Wonderland of Rocks area as they are an important and sensitive wildlife and vegetation area. Backpacking is permitted on the west side of the Boy Scout Trail.

Pets Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on this trail, but service animals are welcome. Service animals must remain on a 6-foot (1.8 meter) leash at all times.

Accessibility This is a dirt trail with both hard packed and sandy sections. Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed on this trail, but service animals are welcome. Service animals must remain on a 6-foot (1.8 meter) leash at all times.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

All 94 trails in Joshua Tree National ParkFind a trailOn the parks mapPark on nps.gov

About this trail's facts

The lines are the National Park Service's public trails layer, the trailheads and the waterfalls, views, peaks and historic places along them the Service's public points of interest, read 2026-10-16 and simplified for the map; the length is the line's, end to end. The write-ups are the Service's own "things to do" text, unedited. Heights come from USGS 3DEP through Terrain Tiles on AWS (Mapzen/Tilezen), read along each line and rounded; a short trail on steep ground can be off by a few tens of feet. Closures change: check the park's own site before you go.