The Hidden Valley Trail is an easy, family-friendly 1.6km loop trail (1 mile) among large monzogranite boulders, Joshua trees, cacti, and California juniper in the Mojave Desert and one of the most accessible and scenic but also busiest walks in Joshua Tree National Park. 

The trail, partly dirt, partly sand, is rocky in sections but generally well-graded and mostly level, catering to most walking abilities whilst showcasing the beauty and vibrant ecosystem of this desert garden.

The trailhead is located off Park Boulevard near Hidden Valley Campground, a 15-minute drive from the West Entrance Station.

Walking the short trail at a very leisurely pace will only take you about 30 minutes, but with kids in tow, I’d allow extra time for some fun rock scrambling.