Ryan Mountain Trailhead

A hiker at Ryan Mountain Trailhead

NPS / Hannah Schwalbe

Quick Facts

Location:

Joshua Tree National Park

Amenities

8 listed

Information, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead

Ryan Mountain is a 3-mile (round trip) out-and-back hike with 1,050 feet of elevation gain. The summit rewards hikers with one of the best 360-degree views of any trail in the park. From the summit, you can see the Wonderland of Rocks, the Sheephole Wilderness, Mount San Jacinto towering over 10,000 feet above Palm Springs, and Mount San Gorgonio, the tallest peak in Southern California. If you are on the top on a clear day, you can even see all the way to Mexico! 

This trail also features the oldest rock type in the park – Pinto Gneiss. It is estimated to be 1.8 billion years old! It is distinguished by its striking light and dark stripes and is noticeably different than the lighter-colored monzogranite cliffs and boulders below.  

In addition to the views and interesting geology, Ryan Mountain is habitat for some of the park’s elusive wildlife – the Desert bighorn sheep. Keep an eye out for these magnificent animals during your ascent and descent.  

Due to its popularity, visitors should arrive early to secure a parking spot on busy days. Pack warm layers on cold and windy days, and always bring adequate food and water supplies and sun protection. This hike is not recommended in the summer due to extreme heat. Please be courteous to other hikers, especially when passing people on the narrow trail.