Here’s a list of the main gold mine hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park—perfect for history buffs, geology fans, and adventurous hikers alike:
Gold Mine Trails in Joshua Tree — Quick Guide
| Trail | Distance & Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Lost Horse Mine Trail / Loop | 4-mile round trip (550 ft gain) or 6.2-mile loop (1,292 ft gain) National Park Service+2National Park Service+2 | Visit one of the park’s most successful mining sites with a preserved 10-stamp mill, dramatic views, and rich desert panoramas National Park ServiceSFGATE. |
| Desert Queen Mine Trail | 0.7 mi round trip to overlook; extends to ~1.6 mi when including the canyon crossing HikespeakThe Whole World Is A Playground | Easy-access scenic overlook; optionally explore final canyon with ruins and artifacts; steeped in Wild West lore involving cattle rustlers and prospector intrigue Hiking GuyWikipedia. |
| Contact Mine Trail | ~3.95 miles RT, moderate difficulty, ~700 ft gain Hikespeak | Less-traveled route into a wash and canyon with rusted mining remnants and solitude — perfect for adventurous hikers. |
| Wall Street Mill (Historic Site) | Short, casual exploration off-ramp near Twentynine Palms Wikipedia | Fully intact gold ore crusher mill from the 1930s—remains operational architecture for a rare desert time capsule. |
| Ruby Lee Mill Site | Unmarked, remote — limited info available Wikipedia | Abandoned quartz mill site in the Hexie Mountains; trace metals only but rich historical context. |
Why These Trails Matter
- Historic Immersion: Each trail connects hikers to a gold-mining story—from boom days to silent ruins.
- Variety of Experiences:
- Lost Horse offers sweeping views, preserved engineering, and moderate exertion.
- Desert Queen delivers lore-rich, gentle-weight hiking.
- Contact Mine is for solitude-seekers and history explorers.
- Wall Street Mill gives a rare chance to see a fully intact mill structure.
- Natural Beauty & Safety:
- All hikes are best enjoyed in spring through fall.
- Expect limited shade, minimal water access, and poor cell service—respect the environment and stay safe.
- ⭐ Pro Tips
- Best Season: Spring (wildflowers & cooler temps).
- Safety: Carry 2–3 liters of water, wear sun protection, and stay on marked trails.
- Respect History: Do not remove artifacts or disturb ruins.
- Wildlife: Watch for bighorn sheep, jackrabbits, and desert tortoises.
1. Lost Horse Mine Trail & Loop
- Distance: 4 miles RT (moderate), or 6.5-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 550–1,292 ft
- Highlights: Preserved 10-stamp mill, desert views, gold rush history.
- Tip: Best in spring or early morning. Bring water, no shade.
2. Desert Queen Mine Trail
- Distance: 0.7 miles RT (easy); optional extension to 1.6 mi
- Highlights: Mining ruins, Wild West lore (cattle rustlers & prospectors).
- Tip: Great short hike with kids or quick stop for history lovers.
3. Contact Mine Trail
- Distance: 3.9 miles RT (moderate)
- Elevation Gain: ~700 ft
- Highlights: Remote mining remains, quiet canyon solitude.
- Tip: Less-traveled — bring GPS/map, as signage is minimal.
4. Wall Street Mill
- Distance: Short, easy exploration
- Highlights: Fully intact 1930s ore crusher mill (a rare sight!).
- Tip: Good add-on to Barker Dam or Hidden Valley.
5. Ruby Lee Mill Site
- Distance: Remote, unmarked access (advanced explorers only)
- Highlights: Abandoned quartz mill site with rich backstory.
- Tip: Only for experienced desert hikers — no official trail.
