Intersection Rock, Mojave Desert Travel Guide

4.9 (9)

A world-class rock climbing destination in Joshua Tree National Park, offering routes for all skill levels and stunning desert views.

Intersection Rock, a prominent monzogranite formation in Joshua Tree National Park, is a renowned destination for rock climbers of all skill levels. Located near Hidden Valley Campground, it offers a variety of climbing routes and breathtaking views of the Mojave Desert.

A brief summary to Intersection Rock

California, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Intersection Rock.

Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for the most pleasant climbing conditions.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
Check the park's website for any temporary closures or climbing restrictions.
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking.
Take a walk around Old Woman Rock, located next to Intersection Rock, for more scenic views.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Mojave National Preserve

Mitchell Caverns

Providence Mountains State Recreation Area

The Mojave Road Historical Marker

Hidden Valley Campground

Explore Intersection Rock on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Intersection Rock, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, drive east on Park Boulevard for approximately 10 minutes. Turn right into the Hidden Valley Campground area. Intersection Rock will be visible on the left, with a parking area nearby. Parking is free but can be limited, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or carpooling.
Public Transport

While there is no public transportation directly to Intersection Rock, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from the town of Joshua Tree to the park entrance. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute drive to Intersection Rock. Taxi/ride-share cost from Joshua Tree to the park entrance is approximately $20-$30. Park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
Walking

If you are camping at Hidden Valley Campground, Intersection Rock is a short walk from your campsite. Follow the paved road from the campground entrance towards Park Boulevard. The rock formation will be visible on your right, with a designated walking path leading to its base.

Discover more about Intersection Rock

Intersection Rock, a stunning 150-foot high monolith, is centrally located within Joshua Tree National Park and adjacent to Hidden Valley Campground. Its name comes from its location near the intersection of Quail Springs Road and Hidden Valley Campground. This massive rock formation is a popular spot for climbers, offering over 40 climbing routes that cater to beginners and experienced climbers alike.Formed over millions of years, Intersection Rock is composed of monzogranite, known for its durability and textured surface, making it ideal for climbing. The rock's unique shape and varied climbing routes provide diverse experiences, from bouldering to long, multi-pitch climbs. Some popular routes include The Bong (5.4), Northwest Corner (5.6), and North Overhang (5.9).Even if you're not a climber, Intersection Rock is a great place to visit. You can watch climbers in action, take a walk around the rock, and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery. Nearby, you'll find other attractions such as Old Woman Rock, Hidden Valley Nature Trail, and Barker Dam.