My son, Mike, recently had a business trip to Palm Springs, CA. His wife accompanied him as she wanted to hike the desert and expand her photo library. Sounds great, right? Well, when they stepped off the airplane it was 100 degrees in the shade; a dangerous situation. The trails in the Joshua Tree National Park were marked but had major warnings regarding the situation. “Danger, if you attempt this trail, you may die!” Basically, if you’re not prepared, do not attempt. One park sign insisted that you have liters of water and a full day of food before attempting the trail.
Take plenty of water, bug spray, and sunscreen. The trailhead maps in the park also showed the length of the trail and the difficulty. Her first venture was for an 8.1-mile trail. You also have to be aware of the wild creatures that you may encounter, and most dangerously, snakes. She had hoped to see prong-horned sheep and numerous birds. As you should be able to perceive, you have to be prepared and it definitely is not for anyone with physical difficulties. While the park trails were marked in detail, the park also borders the local reservation when only the trailhead is marked. Like a pirate map, “X marks the spot, You are here.” Everything else is up to your imagination so a much more dangerous situation.
The Joshua Trail meandered between huge boulders, some of which were a tight squeeze to maneuver. She’s little, barely over 5 feet, and had to squeeze through a few tight spots. This transitioned into a wet area where she had to wade through ankle-deep streams, so a challenging hike. But, reaching the oasis surrounded by the Joshua Trees was rewarding. She encountered a number of different birds including owls nesting in the area, saw a few snakes, and was frightened by a very large Gila monster.
Despite high temps, Janie Giltner encounters snow in the mountains. (Photo provided)
Always check in at the ranger station before attempting any trail. Also, remember you will almost always be out of cellular range so download any navigational guides beforehand. I use the app (free) “My GPS.” While it may not keep you from getting lost, it could help you find your way back. Practice before you leave. A number of phones also support a 911 feature that will use satellite access to send a message to a rescue unit should you need it so if you slip and twist your ankle, it could save your life. Be prepared for all situations.
Nice and somewhat easy, the Andreas Canyon Trail is suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels due to its easy difficulty level. It provides a pleasant hiking experience accessible to almost everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities.
The most difficult: Murray’s Hill / Waterfalls in the Desert, Distance: 8.85 miles, Elevation Gain: 2844 ft. Yes, these are small mountains. Even at 100 degrees at ground level, some of the taller peaks still had snow! But if you attempt, you’re in for a surprise at the end of the trail, the Seven Sisters Waterfalls. She is a dedicated ‘birder’ and was surprised to find an owl in a desert palm. She was even happier to find out it was a great horned owl, a species no one else had seen in the area. She was also treated to an aerial fight between the owl and a crow. Wasn’t sure why they were fighting but one was quick while the other was strong. They finally quit without a clear winner.
WEST FORK TRAIL: Starts on the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and is 5.4 miles – Elevation Gain: 1,581 ft. Be sure to get a map before you attempt any trail as there may be side trails that lead you further into the desert. What may start out as a somewhat easy walk could turn into a difficult situation, especially if you don’t know which direction to turn.
So, hike or no-hike? Be prepared and know your fitness level. There is a lot of beauty in the desert and surprises around every corner. Also, know when to turn around and call it a day with a cold drink at the pool!
