April 15, 2022  |   

Temporary Closure Lifts for 49 Palms Oasis Hiking Trail

Date: August 10, 2022
From: Joshua Tree National Park

The temporary closure of the 49 Palms Hiking Trail that began Monday June 1, 2022 will be lifted on Friday, August 12, 2022.   

Joshua Tree National Park managers closed the 49 Palms area to allow bighorn sheep undisturbed access to surface water.  Recent rainfall events allow for this reopening. Bighorn sheep continue to rely on this water source. If they are viewed while hiking in this area, please remember to give them space to drink and do not approach them or any wildlife in the park.   

Be aware that with additional moisture, desert tortoise are more active and can be seen in and along roadways. Please look under vehicles before driving and drive with caution to protect this rare desert dweller. 

Due to continued heat into the fall, all hikes should continue to be planned to begin at or before sunrise and end by 10:00 AM, or not to begin until after 4:00 PM. Hiking in the middle of the day is not recommended.   

More information on hiking smart in the heat at Joshua Tree National Park can be found at the following website: www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm.