Chiriaco Summit Dirt Road Hike is a 10.8-mile trek in the Colorado Desert located southeast of Palm Springs, California. It starts from Chiriaco Summit and skirts the southwest boundary of Joshua Tree National Park while staying on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. This route offers scenic mountain views, wild desert plants, and, despite its proximity to Highway 10, there are sections that are hidden from the road, making it possible to find some quiet solitude along the way. Also, this route travels through a historic area that was once used as a military training ground during World War II.
Between Lost Palms Canyon and Cottonwood Canyon, this trail runs east to west with little elevation change along a wide, rocky, sand-covered path. It features native plants of the Colorado Desert, such as yuccas, agaves, cacti, and stunning stands of ocotillo. As you walk in this vast desert landscape, devoid of tall shady trees, you will be treated to scenic views of the Eagle Mountains, Cottonwood Mountains, and surrounding wilderness areas. In spite of the natural beauty of the open desert terrain, it is also a harsh environment with fragile plants, little shade, and no reliable water.
Visitors should plan to bring and carry sufficient water, dress in sun protective clothing, and avoid hiking on extremely hot days. This is an ideal winter trek.
CHIRIACO SUMMIT
Located off Highway 10, Chiriaco Summit features a campground, restaurant, gift shop, information center, and museum dedicated to General Patton.
DISPERSED CAMPING
This route crosses over an area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and is a popular spot for dispersed camping. You can find specific information and regulations regarding dispersed camping by visiting https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/camping-outside-the-park.htm.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Chiriaco Summit
Camp Young Historical Area
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