BACKPACKING: February 19 & 20, 2023
Backpacking Boy Scout & Willow Hole Trail
Joshua Tree National Park
Backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park is challenging and requires proper water caching planning. However, the Boy Scout Trail offers one of the easiest two-day trips that do not necessitate water caching but require carrying enough water for two days.
- Length: 13.76 miles
- Elevation Gain: 492 ft
- Route Type: Point to Point
- AllTrails: Route
- Photos: Flicker
- Video: YouTube
Planning
A permit is required for all overnight stays in Joshua Tree National Park starting from March 2023. Since my trip was before this deadline, I did not need any permit.
The Boy Scout Trail is an 8-mile point-to-point trail that can be hiked from either end, requiring transportation to reach the trailhead. Alternatively, you can hike it as an out-and-back, covering a total round trip of 16 miles. It’s important to note that securing an Uber ride may be challenging. Despite the Uber app’s attempts to find a driver, it took almost 45 minutes for one to become available. I was fortunate as the driver was en route from Palm Springs to drop off passengers. Another option is to book a taxi in advance.
Hike: Day 1
I hiked this trail one way from Boy Scout Trail Parking on Park Blvd to Indian Cove. I parked my car near the Indian Cove parking lot and took an Uber ride to the other end. Since I was hiking one way and had plenty of time, I included Willow Hole Trail along the way, which added a couple of miles to the overall trip.
The trail is well marked and begins flat with many Joshua Trees. You’ll encounter numerous day hikers on the trail until 1.5 miles, where the Boy Scout Trail turns northwest at the junction with the Willow Hole Trail. If you wish to explore the Willow Hole Trail, head to the right. The Willow Hole Trail is an out-and-back route of approximately 4.5 miles from this point. Upon completing the Willow Hole Trail, return to this junction to continue on the Boy Scout Trail.
Once you’re on the Willow Hole Trail, you’ll be in a wash with impressive rock formations. After traveling about 2.2 miles from the junction, the trail ends at Willow Hole, where you’ll see patches of green vegetation and sometimes water, depending on the year. Willow Hole is a great spot for resting and having lunch because you can find shade beneath the rock.
You’ll retrace your steps on the Willow Hole Trail to get to the Boys Scout trail. The Boys Scout trail stays flat for about 2 more miles and meets the Big Pine Trail. You’ll follow a narrow wash near this intersection. Beyond this, the trail becomes rocky, so find a camping site 0.5 miles before reaching the rocky trail. You might need to venture slightly off the trail to discover a suitable campsite. If you’re interested, climb some rocks for a stunning view of the surroundings.
One cool activity at Joshua Tree National Park is watching the night sky, especially around midnight. The sky is clear of clouds, and it feels great to see it filled with numerous stars. Additionally, it’s a fantastic opportunity to capture a photo of your tent illuminated with light.
Hike: Day 2
Day two is a short day, hiking about 4 miles, all downhill. I started early in the morning to see the sunrise along the way. The trail starts with rough terrain, descends steeply, and opens up to a beautiful view. It then reaches the canyon floor and goes through the wash.
Finally, the trail left the wash and then followed the side of the hill before reaching the expansive, flat desert. From here, it’s a long, gradual downhill hike back to the Parking lot.
One of the best and easiest backpacking trails in Joshua Tree National Park. Trail is not very long. You can turn back if you encounter any issues. Before doing any trip in the Joshua Tree National Park, please check the following.
- If you don’t have two cars, make sure to book a taxi in advance for the drop-off.
- There is no water along the trail, so be sure to carry enough for your trip.
- A permit has been required since March 2023; kindly check the park’s website for details.
- It can get windy in the evening and at night.
