Are dogs allowed on California Riding and Hiking Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on California Riding and Hiking Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike California Riding and Hiking Trail?

No, California Riding and Hiking Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is California Riding and Hiking Trail?

California Riding and Hiking Trail is rated expert. It is 37.6 miles long with 4,101 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

ExpertPoint to Point

Joshua Tree National Park/California

California Riding and Hiking Trail

Yucca Valley, California

37.6 mi

Distance

4,101 ft

Elev. Gain

14h 7m

Est. Time

Point to Point

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The best way to get to the CRHT is from Black Rock Canyon campground. There is a ranger station at the campground. There is no water to be found along the trail but there are some good places to cache water. There is no fee for camping in Joshua Tree. Backpackers are required to park and register at designated boards in the wilderness.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:865 ft

Max:1,576 ft

1,250 ft

1,602 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Point to Point
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:760-367-5500
Address:74485 National Park Drive · Twentynine Palms, CA · 92277-3597

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the California hunting page

Status unknown — verify before visiting

California Riding and Hiking Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Eureka Peak Trail

Joshua Tree Short Loop Trail and Canyon View Trail Hike

Black Rock Canyon Trail

Burnt Hill Trail and Canyon View Trail Loop

High View Nature Trail

South Park Peak Trail

Other trails in Joshua Tree National Park

Ryan Mountain Trail

Lost Horse Mine Loop

Skull Rock Nature Trail

Ryan Mountain Trail

Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Black Rock Campground - Joshua Tree

Black Rock Equestrian Campground - Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree RV & Campground

Vacation Station

Stargaze Gate

Caribbean Mojave Escape

Similar trails in California

Mount Whitney Trail

Rae Lakes Trail

Sespe River Trail to Willett Hot Springs

American River Bike Trail (Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail)

Mount Langley

South Fork Trail to San Gorgonio Mountain via Mine Shaft Saddle