SA Report: "Chinchweed?" Really?

Trip Date: 9/29/13

Location: Joshua Tree National Park

Permit/Pass: 7 Day Permit ($15), JT Annual Pass ($30) or National Parks Pass

Trails: NPS

Directions: From Hwy 62 (Twentynine Palms Highway) in Yucca Valley follow the signs to JTNP (south on Park Blvd - Quail Springs Rd - National Park Dr) to the kiosk at the Northwest entrance. Drive 18.5 miles on Park Boulevard (be sure to stay left at the junction with Keys View Rd.) from the entrance to the the left turn onto the short dirt road to Split Rock day use area.

Trail sequence: Split Rock trail / Face Rock spur / Split Rock trail

Type: Loop

Distance: 2.4 miles

Elevation: Min. - 4168’, Max. - 4336'

Profile:

Rating: Easy (factors: heat)

Synopsis: Split Rock trail is an enjoyable hike through the hills on the north side of JT's Queen Valley. As usual, there are beautiful and interesting rocks (Tulip Rock and Face Rock stand out) and tremendous desert scenery. The side trip to face rock is not really a must-do, but it's short and fun, just like the rest of the trail. As usual in Joshua Tree, bring water, and watch out for cholla.

Track: Split Rock - Joshua Tree

Turn by turn:

  -- The trail begins at the north end of the parking lot. It departs around the west side of what I assume must be Split Rock.

  -- As you gradually descend the trail continues north and over rock at some points. Stay alert for rocks and cairns that mark the way.

  -- At just under a half mile into the hike you come to a junction with Eagle Cliff trail. Stay left (southwest) to remain on Split Rock trail.

  -- As you approach a mile and a half you drop into a wash where you find the right (south) turnoff to Face Rock.

  -- After returning from the Face Rock spur turn right (northeast) to get back onto Split Rock trail and follow it back to the parking lot.