Pioneertown Mountain Preserve Indian Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Wildflowers

Ranging between 4,200 and 5,200 feet, this loop can be much cooler than neighboring Pioneertown and Joshua Tree. Counter clockwise, the route starts with a mellow climb alongside a running stream. The route them climbs steeply (but not too bad) to gain the main ridge before dropping down super flowy, somewhat techie singletrack. The beautiful red rocks gave off a high-altitude Joshua Tree vibe and the wild flowers were beautiful in mid-April after a big winter.

Parking and port-a-potties are free.

Check out the Pioneertown Mountain Preserve website for more information and a trail map. The trail heads out the western end of the parking lot and follows an obvious path alongside the creek. Once you reach the Olsen ruins, you need to back track just a bit and head into the willows to follow the wash proper. After dodging under branches for a bit, you'll start heading up a steepish canyon.

Once you top out, it's a wonderful downhill with endless variety and views. A few short portions are steep enough where you need to slow down but most of it is a blast.

Website: wildlandsconservancy.org/pr…