The Mojave Desert Land Trust has acquired a property bordering Joshua Tree National Park that could provide access to hiking and climbing opportunities inside the park. Managing editor Tami Roleff gets out her hiking boots…
The Mojave Desert Land Trust recently acquired a 20-acre property that borders Joshua Tree National Park, just west of Utah Trail in Twentynine Palms. The “Desert Knoll” property boasts high-quality desert tortoise habitat, as well as native vegetation. Vehicle access to the property is via a single-lane dirt road off Utah Trail. Hikers and climbers can use the Desert Knoll property to reach the “Indian Head” formation to the west of Utah Trail, as well as several other rock climbing routes, including the “Goof Proof Roof”, a 200-feet high-aid climb. The property also has the potential to connect downtown Twentynine Palms with the California Hiking and Riding Trail, a 37-mile-long trail through the park from Black Rock to Twentynine Palms. Planning for public access opportunities will take place with Joshua Tree National Park staff in the coming year.
