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USA :: Joshua Tree :: Lost Horse Mine

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Panoramic view across Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park from Ridge above Lost Horse Mine.  Snow Covered distant San Gorgonio Range, Highest in Southern California (3506m) upper center left

February 11, 2024

Overall probably the most rewarding moderate hike in the Joshua Tree National Park, leading to Historic Gold and Silver Mine site.  Access is via unpaved Lost Horse Mine Road, branching off Keys Park Road.  When dry it is easily passable by cars.  Parking lot at end of Road is small and will fill quickly on weekends; roadside parking is not allowed.  Most people simply hike shorter north side and come back the same way, but if time allows full loop is the way to go.  South side is super scenic and solitude will allow full appreciation of this very special area.   Loop can be hiked either way and there is no particular advantage either way.  I went in CW direction and this is how this how this narrative and gallery are presented.

North side trailhead is just behind the gate at far end of Parking lot, together with Historic Data and Trail Map.  Trail rises gently on open hillside and is very undemanding;  make sure you turn back frequently as views west to distant San Gorgonio Range are terrific on clear Day - see Gallery.   Mine is reached within an hour.   Main site is behind the fence to prevent vandalism;  graffiti can be spotted on rusted machinery.  Climbing Hilltop above the Mine is a must as it offers simply spectacular 360 views of the Park.  There are plenty of spots to sit and have lunch here.

For the loop continue on trail that climbs briefly south past the mine, then after descending somewhat steeply starts wide contour across several small rises and valleys.   This return is about twice longer but well worth.  On my trip in Feb '24 there was unexpected surprise waiting ~35-40min past the mine - remnants of old house with stone chimney and rusted bed frame.   Last part of south trail hikes across valley floor  (great camping, if allowed) crossing couple of sand washes where trail signs point the right direction.  Trail ends at Lost Horse Mine Road ~100m before the parking lot;  this info is helpful if you plan hiking in CCW direction.

Gallery

Trailhead Gate Gate at end of Lost Horse Mine Road and shorter North side Trailhead.  South side trail -loop closure- is behind near Parking Lot start

Mine Platform

Main Mine Platform is fenced to prevent vandalism and graffiti.  Sony Rx100 is priceless for such occasions as you can push tiny lens through fence opening