Park managers have reopened Fortynine Palms Oasis and the trail to the oasis. The area was closed in early August to allow bighorn sheep undisturbed access to surface water. However, the recent rain event has refilled water sources in the park, increasing water availability for wildlife.
Though the area is open, park rangers recommend saving the hike until there is cooler weather. The Fortynine Palms Trail is only three miles roundtrip, it is deceptively difficult. There is no shade along the trail and changing elevation and uneven footing makes the three miles feel longer than many hikers expect. More information on visiting during the summer heat at Joshua Tree National Park can be found at: www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/summer.htm.
