Tortoise Crossing

NPS/Samantha Laarman

Quick Facts

Location:

Joshua Tree National Park

Amenities

1 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot

The trail seems steep for short reptilian legs, but desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii) are impressively stalwart creatures that travel through the desert scrub to cross passes like this one in search of wildflowers to eat. In the spring, visitors sometimes spot tortoises while hiking on the High View Nature Trail, so keep an eye out! Tortoises are a federally threatened species; if you are lucky enough to see one be sure to give it plenty of space. Report any tortoise observations at the Black Rock Nature Center as scientists are eager for information on these elusive animals.