Discover Pine City in Joshua Tree National Park

This is a moderate and narrative 4-mile hike crafted for those who are still a little intimidated by Joshua Tree National Park's vast panorama. It is a trail less traveled and one of Joshua Tree National Park's nicest “hidden” natural resource treasures.

This is a moderate activity - less than 5 miles of walking, multiple hours outdoors in the elements. 

De Karlen is a Certified California Naturalist, a Joshua Tree Master Naturalist, and a Certified Interpretive Guide, who has worked as a naturalist hiking guide in both the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. Previously, Ms. Karlen worked as an Interpretive Park Ranger in Yosemite National Park, and she truly enjoys sharing knowledge about the wonders and processes of our natural and cultural resources.

With an overall 55' elevation gain, this hike begins at the Pine City backcountry board and slowly rises to an expansive overlook of the Mojave Desert. The hike takes us through an architectural confection of the famous Joshua trees, the park's array of high desert plants, and its monster equally famous boulders while learning a brief overview of the park's human history. We’ll stop for lunch in a nearby pinyon pine burst of greenery and shade before heading back.

All required items participants need to bring for your course: Pack a lunch and bring as much water as you can comfortably carry. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen. Depending on the temperature, consider wearing a neck bandana you can keep wet while hiking.

Photo credit: Bob Grubbs, Desert Institute Volunteer