Hike Minerva Hoyt Trail

Minerva Hoyt loved the cacti and native vegetation and saw the desert as a place of solace.

NPS / Preston Jordan Jr.

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.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

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.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Minerva Hoyt Trailhead

Approximately 1/4 mile north of the junction of Park Blvd and Keys View Road. 

Reservations

No

Season

Winter, Spring, Fall

Hiking 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 going and when you will return. 

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

This 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.