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Ryan Mountain: A Joshua Tree Summit
Hike Ryan Mountain in Joshua Tree National Park for panoramic desert views and a rewarding climb to the summit.
Hike to the top of Ryan Mountain for panoramic views of Joshua Tree National Park. This popular 3-mile trail climbs 1,050 feet to the summit, offering stunning vistas of the Wonderland of Rocks, San Gorgonio Mountain, and even into Mexico on a clear day.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ryan Mountain
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
California, US
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Getting There
Driving
From either the West Entrance (near Joshua Tree Village) or the North Entrance (near Twentynine Palms) of Joshua Tree National Park, follow Park Boulevard, the main road through the park. Drive approximately 15 miles from the West Entrance or a shorter distance from the North Entrance. Look for the well-marked Ryan Mountain parking area on the east side of Park Boulevard, between Ryan Campground and Sheep Pass Campground. A National Park Pass is required to enter Joshua Tree National Park; a 7-day vehicle pass costs $30.
Public Transport
While there are currently no direct public transportation options to Ryan Mountain, a local shuttle or taxi service can take you to the entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. From the park entrance, it's approximately a 30-minute walk to the Ryan Mountain trailhead, following the signs within the park. Remember to arrange return transport. The Morongo Basin Transit Authority (MBTA) previously offered a shuttle service that stopped at the Ryan Mountain parking lot, but it may not be currently operating. Check the MBTA website for current schedules and availability. A valid National Park Pass ($30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass) is still required to use the service.
Local tips
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Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there is very little shade on the trail.
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Arrive early to secure a parking spot, as the Ryan Mountain Trail is a popular hike and the parking lot fills up quickly.
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Wear sturdy hiking boots due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
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Check the weather forecast before you go and avoid hiking during extreme heat.
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Consider hiking at sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and stunning views.
Discover more about Ryan Mountain
Ryan Mountain, standing at 5,457 feet, is a popular and rewarding hike in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park. The 3-mile round trip trail is a challenging climb, gaining 1,050 feet in elevation, but the 360-degree views from the summit are well worth the effort.
As you ascend, the trail winds through a landscape dotted with Joshua Trees and massive granite formations. The early stages offer glimpses of the surrounding valleys and distant mountain ranges. About a quarter of a mile into the hike, you'll encounter the trail's only junction; veer right to continue towards the summit. The path is well-maintained with a combination of stone steps and dirt trail.
From the summit, you can see the Wonderland of Rocks, the Sheephole Wilderness, Mount San Jacinto, and Mount San Gorgonio, the tallest peak in Southern California. On a clear day, it's even possible to see as far as Mexico. Keep an eye out for Desert Bighorn Sheep along the trail. The mountain is named after J.D. Ryan, who started a mill to crush stone for miners in 1895. The trailhead is located on Park Boulevard, between Ryan Campground and Sheep Pass Campground.
A brief summary to Ryan Mountain
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