Are dogs allowed on Lost Horse Mine Loop?

No, dogs are not permitted on Lost Horse Mine Loop. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Lost Horse Mine Loop?

No, Lost Horse Mine Loop 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 Lost Horse Mine Loop?

Lost Horse Mine Loop is rated moderate. It is 6.8 miles long with 499 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.

What is the best season to hike Lost Horse Mine Loop?

Lost Horse Mine Loop is best hiked in fall, winter, and spring. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

ModerateLoop

Joshua Tree National Park/California

Lost Horse Mine Loop

Twentynine Palms, California

6.8 mi

Distance

499 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 23m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Hike to one of the most successful gold mines in Joshua Tree's history. Historic mining equipment and structures remain. Best done as a loop for variety.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

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

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherUneven terrain

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Loop
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

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Highlights

Historic mine ruinsMining equipmentDesert viewsJoshua tree groves

Reviews

No reviews yet

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

Verified from National Park Service public trails dataset

Trail centerline: National Park Service public trails dataset. Source ↗

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

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

Lost Horse Mine Loop

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Lost Horse Mine Trail

Quail Mountain via Juniper Flats

Stubby Springs Loop

Ryan Ranch Trail

Cap Rock and Gram Parsons Nature Trail

Ryan Mountain Trail

Other trails in Joshua Tree National Park

Ryan Mountain Trail

Skull Rock Nature Trail

Ryan Mountain Trail

Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

Lost Palms Oasis

Campgrounds near this trail

Ryan Campground

Joshua Tree National Park Sheep Pass Campground

Jumbo Rocks Campground

Boy Scout Trail Backcountry Camping

Belle Campground

Indian Cove Campground

Similar trails in California

Mirror Lake Loop

Yosemite Falls Trail

Four Mile Trail

Potato Chip Rock via Mt. Woodson Trail

Eaton Canyon Trail

Iron Mountain Trail