About
Length (round trip)3 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain100 ft up
Typical time1 hr 30 min
TrailheadPark Boulevard, near Ryan Mountain
SurfaceShort sandy desert path
Best seasonHiking in the summer can be deadly. Always check the weather before hiking and bring plenty of water and appropriate clothing and sun protection. Always tell a friend or family member where you are...
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThis 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.
What you'll see 🌼 Wildflowers🏛️ Historic site

The Minerva Hoyt Trail is an out-and-back hike to the Hidden Valley picnic area. It is 3 miles roundtrip with 100 feet of elevation gain. From the parking lot, the trail follows an old road before it takes a sharp right towards Hidden Valley. The hike goes through a valley of Joshua trees with excellent views of unique rock formations and mountains in the distance. It can be combined with the 1-mile Hidden Valley Nature Trail to create a 4-mile "lollipop" loop. The trail is named after Minerva Hoyt, the founding force behind Joshua Tree National Park. She lobbied congress and President FDR to preserve the area. Her efforts helped the park become designated as a National Monument in 1936. It later became a National Park in 1994.

Tips
Minerva Hoyt spent a decade lobbying for protection of the California desert and Joshua Tree was proclaimed a national monument in 1936 largely because of her. Short, flat and easy to combine with Ryan Mountain.
Location

Park Boulevard, near Ryan Mountain

Other Hikers
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