Towering above the landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, Ryan Mountain offers some of the most gorgeous vistas you can find anywhere in the area. Hiking to almost 5,500 feet above sea level is no small accomplishment, especially with the harsh and unforgiving climate that awaits you in the California desert.
But the views are SO WORTH IT! It’s hard to think of anything better than standing on the top of a mountain and marveling at the 360-degree panorama that stretches all the way to the horizon. One of the best ways to truly appreciate Joshua Tree National Park is to get a bird’s eye view — it helps put in perspective just how miraculous it is that the joshua tree can grow so large in such a desolate place!
What You Need to Know About Hiking Ryan Mountain
The hike up Ryan Mountain is best done during any season except summer! Even then, getting an early start will likely be critical to your enjoyment of this trail in the spring or fall. You may be lucky enough to hike along a shady trail.
Bring water and wear plenty of sunscreen, no matter the time of year. These desert conditions are harsh and should not be taken lightly.
The trail is strenuous {don’t expect many flat sections} but well constructed and straightforward. The hike literally cuts into the side of the mountain, so you’ll have an edge that drops off almost the whole way up. I never felt unsafe, but you will want to take care to watch your footing.
From the beginning of the trail, your calf muscles will be burning from the LONG staircase that climbs up the mountain. After 0.2 miles, you will reach the only junction found along the trail. Stay to the right to stay on the trail to the summit
Continuing your ascent, you will begin to notice the interesting features that dot the landscape of Joshua Tree National Park — such as the Wonderland of Rocks and the Little San Bernadino Mountains. The trail continues to climb the mountain, wrapping around the west side and then entering a cut along the ridgeline.
Several times along the trail, it looks like you are heading toward the summit….just to be fooled! It’s hard to determine where the actual summit is while you are hiking, so just enjoy the views as you continue heading up, up, up.
Plant life somehow still thrives in this harsh climate — and the beauty is in the details. Take a moment to appreciate the peculiar plants along your route. It truly is phenomenal that anything can survive around here!
After coming around the bend, you’ve got one final push to the summit. When you get to this point, you are nearly there. This is desert hiking at its finest!
Even on a busy day, the summit of Ryan Mountain provides plenty of room to spread out and find solitude. The views are amazing from every direction. You’ve got snow-capped peaks to the west, a Joshua Tree forest to the east, and a stunning desert landscape far beneath your feet. Enjoy the view from the top!
The trail to the Ryan Mountain summit is 3 miles round trip and gains 1,075 feet of elevation. Happy trails!
Getting Here
The Ryan Mountain trailhead is located in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, sandwiched between the Ryan and Sheep Pass Campgrounds. If you are coming in from the West Entrance, take a left at the intersection of Key’s View Road. If entering through the North Entrance, turn right toward Jumbo Rocks instead of traveling to the southern section of the park.
Have you hiked this trail? Do you have any questions about Joshua Tree National Park? Let me know in the comments below!
This trail possible with littles? We are going late September with a 5 and 7 year old!
We have hiked it with our kids when they were that young. It is uphill the whole way with very little shade, so just make sure you have what you need to help them have a good experience :)
Will be here around end of August. So we know it will be hot. Which would be better, an 8am start or 3-4 pm.
8 a.m., but I’d start even earlier if you can. It’s crazy hot out there, and this trail doesn’t have much shade at all!