Lost Horse Mine Trail | Four Mile Trail to Old Goldmine

The Lost Horse Mine is one of Joshua Tree National Park’s most fascinating historic sites — a perfect blend of Old West history and desert beauty on an out and back 4 mile trail.

⛏️ Lost Horse Mine – Overview

Location: In the western part of Joshua Tree National Park, near Keys View Road.
Type: A preserved gold mine from the late 1800s–early 1900s.
Trail Length: About 4 miles round trip (moderate).
Elevation Gain: ~550 feet.

🏜️ History

Discovered in the 1890s, it became one of the most successful gold mines in the area.
Produced over 10,000 ounces of gold and 16,000 ounces of silver (today worth over $5 million).
Mining operations continued until the 1930s, after which the site was abandoned.
The 10-stamp mill, remarkably well-preserved, still stands as one of the best examples of early mining technology in California deserts.

🚶 The Hike

Starts at Lost Horse Mine Trailhead off Keys View Road.
Out-and-back: 4 miles (moderate).
Option for a 6.5-mile loop that includes sweeping desert views and more solitude.
Along the way: Joshua trees, yucca, desert scrub, and wide panoramas.

🌟 Highlights

The stamp mill ruins, fenced off but clearly visible — a centerpiece of park history.
Scenic desert views toward San Gorgonio Mountain and Coachella Valley.
A sense of stepping back in time to the California Gold Rush days.

⚠️ Tips

No shade along the trail — bring plenty of water and go early in the day.
Stay on the trail (open mine shafts in the area can be dangerous).
Spring is the best time to hike (mild temps, wildflowers).

Final Thoughts:

Lost Horse mine trail captures the ruins with the desert mountains in the background — kind of like a historic-meets-wild-west vibe, is definitely a must see.