Lost Horse Mine Trailhead, Mojave Desert Travel Guide

4.7 (80)

Explore a historic gold mine amidst Joshua Tree's stunning desert scenery on this moderate and rewarding hiking trail.

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Lost Horse Mine Trailhead

Hike through Joshua Tree National Park on the Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail, a moderate trek that combines stunning desert landscapes with a glimpse into the region's gold mining past. Explore the well-preserved remains of the Lost Horse Mine, one of the most successful mining operations in the park, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

A brief summary to Lost Horse Mine Trailhead

Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail, Twentynine Palms, California, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lost Horse Mine Trailhead.

Start your hike early, especially during summer, to avoid the desert heat and secure a parking spot.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear sturdy hiking boots, as there is little shade and the terrain can be rocky.
Consider hiking the full loop for more expansive views and diverse scenery.
Stay on marked trails and respect the fences around the mine for your safety and to preserve the historic site.

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Getting There

Driving

From Twentynine Palms, drive south on Utah Trail, which becomes CA-62 S. Continue onto Park Blvd. Drive approximately 8.5 miles and turn right onto Keys View Road. After 2.4 miles, turn left onto the dirt road leading to the Lost Horse Mine Trailhead. The parking lot is at the end of this dirt road. Note that the dirt road is generally passable for most vehicles. Entrance to Joshua Tree National Park costs $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. An annual pass costs $55. Parking at the trailhead is limited and fills quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot. If the lot is full, park at a turnoff along Lost Horse Mine Road.
Ride-Sharing

Utilize ride-sharing services like Uber or taxis from Twentynine Palms to reach the Lost Horse Mine Trailhead. Estimate a fare of approximately $40 for a one-way trip from Twentynine Palms to the trailhead. Remember to factor in the Joshua Tree National Park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, as the driver will likely include this in the fare.

Discover more about Lost Horse Mine Trailhead

The Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail offers a captivating journey through Joshua Tree National Park, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue. This moderate 6.8-mile loop (or a shorter 4-mile out and back option ) leads you to the Lost Horse Mine, one of the best-preserved and most productive mines in the park.The trail begins off Keys View Road, leading onto a dirt road to the trailhead. As you hike, you'll be surrounded by the iconic Joshua trees, yuccas, and diverse desert flora that define this unique landscape. The trail gradually ascends, offering stunning vistas of Queen Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.Reaching the Lost Horse Mine, you'll encounter the remnants of a once-thriving gold mining operation. From 1894 to 1931, the mine produced over 10,000 ounces of gold and 16,000 ounces of silver , worth approximately $5 million today. Although fences protect the mine for safety , you can still admire the ten-stamp mill and imagine the bustling activity of miners seeking their fortune.For those seeking a longer adventure, the loop trail continues beyond the mine, climbing to higher elevations with panoramic views. Along the way, you might spot the remains of the Optimist Mine, marked by an intriguing stone chimney. The loop then descends through a sandy wash, completing the circuit back to the trailhead.The Lost Horse Mine Loop Trail provides a memorable experience, immersing you in the beauty and history of Joshua Tree National Park.